Fiji Launches Gender Barrier Study

Fiji’s Defence Ministry will partner with the country’s security forces to undertake a study on barriers facing women personnel.

The Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs yesterday launched the Gender Barrier Assessment Project at the Fiji Learning Institute for Public Service in Nasese.

As project lead, the ministry is partnering with the Elsie Initiative Fund, which supports greater participation of uniformed women in peace operations.

Providing technical assistance are Australian consultancy, Ethos CRS along with Cornell University’s Gender Security Sector Lab in the United States.

The assessment will involve interviews of women in the Fiji Police Force and the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) who have been deployed or are preparing to be deployed, along with key civilian decision-makers.

With interviews of 400 staff and over 30 decision-making personnel expected to occur, the study may take up to 14 months to complete.

Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs permanent secretary Mason Smith said: “Obtaining the understanding of the barriers will enable us to develop a policy roadmap for greater gender inclusion with achievable and meaningful targets.

“Findings from this project will directly inform the Fiji Police Force and the RFMF in their first women, peace and security annual plan for 2025 to 2029.”

The study would shape reforms in line with national gender policy and international treaties on women.

“With this being the first systemic barrier assessment in the Pacific using this method, this is an opportunity for Fiji to demonstrate our leadership in the Pacific, reflecting our high level of commitment to inclusivity, professionalism and increasing our operational effectiveness.”

Mr Smith said as a regional leader, Fiji’s experience and results from this project would serve as a blueprint for other Pacific Island police and military forces.

Feedback: jernese.macanawai@fijisun.com.fj