EDITORIAL:Women Have Never Been In A Better Position Than Now

The women of this country have reached an important milestone in their role as equal partners in the development of our beloved nation.

The legal structures are in place and the environment is set for our women to be fully engaged in the decision-making processes at all levels.

The increasing interest shown by women in this General Election has been influenced by the ideal political atmosphere.

Politics is usually regarded as a male-dominated area but that is changing as more women commit themselves to this election.

Their participation strengthens efforts to bring about gender balance in facets of national life.

It also brings to life the meaning of equality and non-discrimination provisions in our Constitution about women’s rights and equal opportunities.

The infusion of women in an election adds spice, quality, depth and integrity in the electoral process because it makes it representative of both genders.

Women are unique and bring with them different ideas and perspectives.

They are the backbone of the family, the basic unit of society. They are also endowed with special gifts to carry out their God-given roles, among them as mothers in the home.

How many times have we seen brave, single mothers raise their children with love and sacrifice?

They have a sweet sense of compassion and understanding for the poor, the destitute and the afflicted.

It’s all part of their physiological makeup. That’s who they are.

They complement men and would greatly help in the running of this country.

This is the reason why they should be treated with respect and dignity instead of being physically and psychologically abused and discriminated.

The Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation, Mereseini Vuniwaqa, has welcomed the interests shown by women in politics.

She explains that Fiji is party to CEDAW (Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women).

One of the hallmarks of CEDAW, she adds, is the aim to increase the participation of women in decision-making and in political and public life.

Mrs Vuniwaqa says: “I think we can all agree that women bring in a different perspective on issues - whether it is national, familial or even on an individual level.

“Fiji is on the cusp of a great awakening in relation to gender equality and the empowerment of women.”

Again this has been possible by the changes in the law and the support of the civil societies and other stakeholders.

The legal platform is important because some cultures and traditions do not allow women equal status and opportunities. Those cultures strictly follow the patriarchal line and women usually play a subservient role.

But in the national scheme of things men and women are equal and enjoy equal rights. That’s the law.

Mrs Vuniwaqa has also called for more women to contest the election. There is no better time for women to step up and be counted than now.

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