Rainbow Pride Foundation urges protection for all citizens, equal rights

The Rainbow Pride Foundation Fiji is calling for stronger protections for all citizens in the country’s Constitution, urging that no one be left out of national life.

In a submission to the Constitutional Review Commission, the organisation stressed the need for equal rights and protections, particularly for members of the LGBTQI+ community.

Speaking on behalf of the foundation, Christopher Lutukivuya said inclusion must extend across all areas of society.

This includes leadership, governance, public services and development planning, with no group excluded from decisions that affect their lives.

He warned that exclusion carries real consequences.

These include reduced productivity, poorer public health outcomes, lower education participation and weakened trust in institutions.

Mr Lutukivuya also addressed concerns around marriage, clarifying that the foundation is not pushing for constitutional recognition of same-sex unions.

Instead, he said the focus is on equal citizenship, protection from discrimination and upholding human dignity.

“The Constitution must ensure that all people can live safely, work fairly and access services equally,” he said.

The foundation is urging the commission to adopt provisions that protect without exception, recognise without prejudice and uphold dignity for every citizen.

Mr Lutukivuya said inclusion should be seen not as a demand for special rights, but as a safeguard against systemic neglect.

“The Constitution should ensure that all people can live safely, work fairly, and access essential services equally,” he said.