New Constitution must tackle inequality to prevent conflict: Professor Ratuva

A new Constitution must protect vulnerable Fijians from inequality and exclusion because social injustice can fuel conflict and political instability, Renowned Fijian academic and political sociologist Professor Steven Ratuva says.

Making his submission to the Constitution Review Commission, Professor Ratuva urged the Commission to ensure constitutional reform extended beyond the structure of government and focused on improving the daily lives, rights and wellbeing of ordinary citizens.

He said Fiji needed a Constitution that promoted social justice, gender equality, human rights and the protection of vulnerable groups.

"The Constitution should not only be looking at institutions and processes, but also behaviour," Professor Ratuva said.

He warned that unequal access to wealth, resources and opportunities had historically contributed to social tensions and political instability.

"There is a lot of research to show that inequality contributes to conflict and contributes to destabilisation," he said.

Professor Ratuva said past political upheavals in Fiji had included concerns over inequality, business opportunities and access to resources.

He said the next Constitution must ensure economic growth benefited all citizens rather than only certain groups.

"Growth has to be defined as inclusive growth rather than just growth," he said.

Professor Ratuva also raised concerns about groups that had been left outside constitutional recognition, saying inclusion must be carefully considered.

He said identity remained a sensitive but important issue, warning that it could either unite society or deepen divisions.

"Identity can be unified. At the same time, it can be destabilising and disuniting, particularly when the space within which we are trying to bring people together is not conducive to unity," he said.

He said the Constitution should provide protection for minorities, women, young people and vulnerable communities.

Professor Ratuva said the Commission must look beyond individual submissions and focus on what served the national interest.