Fiji’s recent democratic journey offers an important lesson, says Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka.
He told those present at the Regional Youth and Democracy Forum in Nadi on Monday the formation of the Coalition Government following the 2022 General Election was a significant moment in Fiji’s history.
“It demonstrated the strength of democratic institutions and the peaceful transfer of power, but it also demonstrated the power of citizen participation,” Mr Gavoka said.
“Young people played an active role throughout that democratic process. They participated in campaigns.
“They mobilised communities. They encouraged voter participation. They engaged in national discussions.
“And they exercised their democratic rights.
“Their involvement helped shape a democratic outcome.
“That is why I say with confidence that young people are not simply the leaders of tomorrow. You are already shaping the realities of today.
“Your generation will inherit challenges unlike any before it.”
He said climate change remained the single greatest threat facing the Pacific.
“The Pacific today finds itself at the centre of increasing geopolitical competition.
“While partnerships create opportunities, they also require vigilance.
“Pacific nations must continue to assert our sovereignty and ensure that external engagement strengthens rather than weakens democratic accountability and national interests.
“The decisions made over the next decade will shape the future of our economies, our security, our environment, and our societies.
“Those decisions cannot be made without young people.
“You will live longest with the consequences.
“You deserve a voice in shaping the solutions. Democracy works best when those affected by decisions are able to participate in making them.”
The forum was organised by Dialogue Fiji in partnership with Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, bringing together youth leaders from across the Pacific to discuss the future of democracy, governance, civic participation, and leadership in the region.
