A coalition of regional and local civil society organisations has expressed “grave concern” over proposals by the Bose Levu Vakaturaga (Great Council of Chiefs) to amend key provisions of Fiji’s Constitution, warning the changes could undermine equality and social cohesion.
In a joint statement, groups including DIVA for Equality, the Pacific Sexual and Gender Diversity Network and ILGA Oceania acknowledged the historic role of the GCC but urged it to “create pathways for communication and peacebuilding” across all communities.
The organisations said proposed changes submitted to the Constitution Review Commission—such as removing protections based on gender and sexual orientation, redefining the term “Fijian,” and repealing Fiji’s secular status—risk weakening fundamental rights.
“Any such proposed changes to the Constitution directly threaten justice, equity, social cohesion, and democratic governance in Fiji,” the statement said.
The groups stressed that constitutional safeguards must be preserved, noting that protections for women, girls and LGBTQI+ individuals are critical to ensuring “fairness, dignity, and justice.”
They also warned that redefining who qualifies as “Fijian” could reverse decades of progress toward a shared national identity.
“Fiji’s strength lies in its diversity,” the coalition said, adding that all communities contribute to nation-building through work, leadership and service.
On governance, the organisations called for reforms to uphold democratic principles, including “equitable suffrage, separation of powers, accountability, transparency and the rule of law.”
They further defended Fiji’s secular framework, stating it “ensures all people, regardless of belief, are treated equally under the law.”
The coalition said national focus should remain on pressing challenges such as climate change, rising fuel costs, poverty and the HIV crisis.
“This is not the time to divert attention from these critical priorities,” the statement said.
The groups have called for an “open, inclusive and evidence-based national dialogue” on any constitutional reforms.
