Speaker Addresses the IPU Assembly

The Fijian Parliament is committed to advancing social inclusion and leveraging technology to bridge gaps in our society and region.

This was highlighted by the Speaker of the Fijian Parliament the Hon. Filimone Jitoko whilst delivering his statement at the 150th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly currently underway in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

“Whilst we acknowledge that our journey with parliamentary democracy has been eventful, Fiji has continued to make significant progress in rebuilding democratic institutions and achieving political stability.”

“Parliament has focused on reinforcing parliamentary democracy by actively promoting citizens engagement in the democratic process and advancing social inclusion.”

The Hon. Speaker acknowledged the work undertaken by the Standing Committees in making the Fijian Parliament more gender-sensitive, and the recent enactment of laws aimed at safeguarding children’s rights and well-being.

“By embedding gender-based analysis into the legislative processes, we aim to ensure that our laws and policies are equitable and gender-inclusive.”

“Two significant Bills were enacted unanimously in December 2024 – these were the Child Justice Bill and the Child Care and Protection Bill. The Parliament in so doing, is contributing to the national initiative to reform legal frameworks concerning child protection and family welfare, strengthening Fiji’s compliance with international laws and standards.”

Hon. Jitoko recognised that the Fijian Parliament’s investment in ICT infrastructure and digital tools plays a vital role in promoting social inclusion by bridging divides and creating opportunities for marginalised communities.

“We firmly believe that widespread access to digitalisation and technological advancements is vital for the growth of our parliamentary democracy.”

“As a small island developing state, we also acknowledge the challenges faced by many of our remote communities in accessing participation and information related to parliamentary processes.”

“A central strategic priority for us is enhancing public engagement and empowering citizens to actively participate in and contribute to our parliamentary democracy.”

Furthermore, the Fijian Parliament, had this week signed a Cooperation Agreement with the IPU for the purposes of establishing a partnership, working together towards achieving the objectives of the IPU Centre for Innovation in Parliament where the Fijian Parliament would coordinate a CIP Hub for the Pacific Region.

“The Fijian Parliament remains dedicated to advancing digital transformation, fostering greater public engagement, promoting transparency, and strengthening good governance in the Pacific region to ensure impactful parliamentary contributions toward social development and justice.”

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