WOMEN, girls and vulnerable communities must have a stronger voice in land and climate decisions, Minister for Lands Filimoni Vosarogo said while addressing the Capacity Building Program on Climate Change, Human Rights and Business at the Pacific Theological College in Suva recently.
“We must also face an uncomfortable but essential truth: women, girls, and the most vulnerable communities bear the heaviest burdens, yet their voices are too often marginalised,” Mr Vosarogo said.
“Recently, a vanua decision directed a kava ban for their women.
“During the past few days, I have read with interest differing views and opinions on the subject. Views generated range from the strictest application of human right to equality before the law to views that asks us to examine the intent behind the decision.”
Mr Vosarogo said policies must be inclusive from the beginning to be effective and just.
“Policies that overlook these inequalities will not only fall short; they will compound injustice.”
He added gender-responsive planning, meaningful consultation and equal access to remedies must guide land governance and climate strategies.
“In Fiji, deliberate steps are being taken to align laws and policies with these realities. These land reforms are about more than efficient management — they are about justice, stronger governance, and sustainable development that upholds human rights.”
