The Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 proposes constitutional recognition and protection of the heritage and cultures of all communities in Fiji.
Under section 54, the proposed Constitution recognises the contribution made by every community to Fiji’s “unity, harmony and wellbeing” through their languages, arts, customs, festival traditions and histories.
The provision states that both the State and Fiji’s communities must respect the equal rights of all communities to the recognition, use and respect of their respective cultures, heritage and heritage infrastructure.
It also places responsibility on the State and communities to nurture Fiji’s diverse cultural heritage by promoting greater awareness of the country, its history and cultures.
The Bill specifically calls for the protection of sites of historical, spiritual or cultural significance, as well as cultural artefacts.
“The people of Fiji recognise the contribution of all communities to the unity, harmony and wellbeing of Fiji,” the proposed provision states.
Importantly, the responsibility would extend beyond recognition.
Section 54(3) states that the Government, in consultation with all of Fiji’s communities, must develop policies, programmes and laws to give effect to the constitutional provision.
The proposal forms part of Chapter 3 of the Constitution Amendment Bill dealing with land, the environment and group rights.
