Women human rights defenders in Fiji still face serious obstacles to freedom of speech, assembly, and association, the UN CEDAW Committee has warned, calling out ongoing risks faced by activists, journalists and whistleblowers.
In its latest findings on Fiji released on Monday, CEDAW commended Fiji on the removal of the restrictive legislation, such as the Media Industry Development Act (2010).
CEDAW highlighted that Section 6(5) of Fiji’s Constitution, along with provisions in the Public Order Act (1969), the Electoral Amendment Act (2022), and the Crimes Act (2009), impose restrictions that disproportionately affect women advocating for human rights.
The committee also noted the rising threat of technology-facilitated gender-based violence, such as cyberbullying, targeting women human rights defenders.
CEDAW also raised concerns about the lack of meaningful participation of these women in shaping laws, policies, and budgets aimed at advancing gender equality.
“Fiji should repeal Section 6(5) of the Constitution and restrictive provisions in the Public Order Act (1969), Electoral Amendment Act (2022), and Crimes Act (2009) to ensure women human rights defenders can freely advocate for women’s rights and exercise their fundamental freedoms.”
“The State must protect women human rights defenders from harassment and technology-facilitated violence, including cyberbullying, by investigating and prosecuting perpetrators and providing effective remedies and reparations to victims.”
“Fiji should take measures to ensure women human rights defenders are meaningfully involved in the design, implementation, and monitoring of laws, policies, and budgets promoting women’s rights and gender equality.”
