The Voter Perception Survey 2024 found civic duty is motivating citizens to participate in elections.
The analysis found that voter confidence alone is not a strong predictor of turnout.
Instead, perceptions of civic duty— the sense of responsibility to contribute to one’s country and community— are more closely linked to the motivation to vote.
This suggests that public awareness campaigns emphasizing voting as a civic duty could significantly boost participation.
The survey found by aligning with values and beliefs already held by Fijians, such campaigns could inspire greater electoral engagement in future elections.
The study revealed a stark contrast in turnout among overseas Fijians, with only 6.9% voting compared to 69% within Fiji, despite many reporting a strong sense of civic duty.
Practical barriers, such as limited access to voting facilities and difficulties obtaining information, contributed to this gap.
The Fiji Elections Office (FEO) plans to conduct further studies to explore social factors influencing voter turnout, including civic duty.
