Fiji: Women to be represented in national peace and security matters

May 6, 2008 – (Fiji Government) The representation of women in all aspects of national peace and security matters is critical.

In view of this, Cabinet has agreed that the Minister responsible for women, gender and development, be part of the National Security Council.

Cabinet also agreed to the inclusion of the Permanent Secretary responsible for women, gender and development and the Head of Department at divisional and district level in the ‘Officials’ committee.

Cabinet based its decision on a submission by the Minister for Health, Women and Social Welfare, Dr. Jiko Luveni.

Dr. Luveni said that women in Fiji have not been a visible part of the ‘official’ or Government’s Peace building and conflict management.

“Women and girls experience security and the absence of it in different ways.

“Data shows that violence against women continues to be a scourge in the lives of women and girls. Police data shows the challenges women face in ordinary times.

“There is circumstantial evidence that in the times of political unrest rape and other forms of sexual violence perpetrated on women are unreported.”

She said that it is, therefore, important to have a female representation in the National Security Council of Fiji which plays a pivotal role as the highest body in the land tasked with decision making for security matters for the nation.

She also said that the inclusion of gender mainstreaming in all security discourse including the training of Peacekeepers and the participation of women in the security discussion will result in peace building at all levels of society.

Dr. Jiko said that Fiji endorsed and is party to the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995) which addresses under section E, Women and Armed Conflict in addition the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (1979) provides for women’s human rights.

“The UN Security Council Resolution 1325 adopted in October 2000 specifically addresses and commits UN State parties and the UN machinery to incorporating gender concerns.

Fiji has also endorsed regional agreements that address women, peace and security concerns.

She also said that Social Justice, Affirmative Action and the Human Rights of women are entrenched in the Constitution of Fiji.

“However, the application of the provisions of the Constitution continues to leave women lagging behind and the principles of gender equality are not met.”

Dr. Jiko said that women are mothers, teachers, doctors and nurses, police officers, soldiers and peacekeepers, lawyers and legislators, and they have the capacity to contribute to peace and security concerns.

She said that peace and security are basic requirements of nation building and the representation on merit, of women who constitute 50% of the population in its power structure is vital for the wholesome development of the nation.

From:http://www.fiji.gov.fj/publish/page_11775.shtml