The NGO Coalition on Human Rights (NGOCHR) has called for a thorough and transparent public enquiry into the issue of gender equity in sports in Fiji, particularly on rugby.
The call comes after the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) trustees acknowledged last week that members of the Fijiana 15s team to the 2021 Women’s Rugby World Cup were still owed $600 each.
In a statement, the coalition emphasised the need to examine the overall conditions for women in sports at all levels, from community clubs led by girls and youth to national representation.
In light of media and social media reports highlighting the poor treatment of national women rugby players, the NGOCHR insisted it was high time for an enquiry to be conducted.
The coalition expressed gratitude to the trustees of the FRU for affirming the players’ statements and acknowledged the pressing need for Rugby House to implement improvements.
The NGOCHR identified patriarchal attitudes, inequitable and unaccountable leadership within sports organisations, and inadequate structures that fail to promote gender equity and human rights as underlying issues.
While recognizing the efforts made by various stakeholders, including the players themselves, the NGOCHR emphasised the importance of identifying and addressing the remaining gaps and obstacles for women and girls in sports, as well as other areas of life.
The NGOCHR called upon the Government and Fijian society to support women in sports, particularly those involved in rugby and other male-dominated sports.
