Fiji women's rights groups address regional violence and official accountability

The Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre (FWCC) has launched its 46th Regional Training Program on Violence Against Women and Girls, Human Rights and Development. The four-week initiative includes 42 participants from 12 Pacific nations, including Tuvalu, Kiribati, Palau, Samoa, and the Solomon Islands, representing 22 different organizations.

The program addresses various facets of violence, including legal and policy responses, counseling, and the impacts of climate change and technology on women and girls. Since its inception in 1995, over 2,000 individuals have completed the training to influence policy and strengthen support services across the region.

Separately, the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement (FWRM), FWCC, and DIVA for Equality have expressed deep concern regarding the reappointment of Pita Wise as Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Public Enterprises. Advocacy groups are questioning the transparency of the appointment process following previous sexual harassment allegations against Mr. Wise during his tenure in the Office of the Prime Minister in 2024.

Coordinator Shamima Ali has called for clarity on whether previous complaints were fully investigated and if those findings were considered by the state prior to this new senior appointment.