The implementation of Fiji’s National Gender Policy will help increase gender equality and women’s empowerment in Fiji.

These were the words of the director for women, Arieta Moceica, during her meeting with Australia’s Ambassador for Women and Girls on Thursday.

“Just recently I represented Fiji at the Asia and Pacific Conference on Gender Equality and Women Empowerment Beijing+20 Review in Bangkok,” Ms Moceica said.

She said the policy was important to promote substantive gender equality and women’s leadership in Fiji.

“The strategy for the implementation of this policy includes promoting an approach that is viewed in research based on age and sex disaggregated data collection.”

Ms Moceica said there was a need to promote women’s economic empowerment and gender equity in the Government.

“This should be related to environment, education system and within civil society as the key to sustainable development.”

She said there should be an increase in the participation and access of women to express their opinions and to make decisions.

“We need to promote a balanced and non-stereotyped portrayal of women in the media through training.”

Ms Moceica said there was also a need to promote gender equity and child protection strategies amongst adolescent boys and girls.

Meanwhile, the National Gender Policy was officially launched by the ministry in March this year to promote gender equality by empowering ordinary Fijians.

Feedback:  zafiya.shamim@fijisun.com.fj