Fijians would have the constitutional right to practise their religion publicly or privately and could not be compelled to act contrary to their religious beliefs under the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026.
Section 25 of the Bill guarantees every person the right to freedom of religion, conscience and belief, including the right to practise a religion individually or with others.
The protection extends to worship, observance, practice and teaching, whether conducted in private or in public.
The Bill also states that no person can be compelled to act in a manner contrary to their religion or belief.
People could also not be forced to take an oath, or take an oath in a particular manner, if it conflicts with their beliefs or requires them to profess a belief they do not hold.
Religious denominations, as well as cultural and social communities, would retain the right to establish, maintain and manage educational institutions, including those receiving financial assistance from the State.
Religious communities operating schools would also have the right to provide religious instruction as part of the education they provide.
However, students cannot be required to receive religious instruction or participate in religious ceremonies or observances of another religion without their consent.
For children, the consent of a parent or lawful guardian would be required. The same protection applies to people who hold no religious belief.
The rights under section 25 would not be absolute, with the Bill allowing limitations prescribed by law where necessary to protect the rights of others, public safety, public order, public morality or public health, or to prevent a public nuisance.
