Opposition MP Rinesh Sharma has called on the government to establish a dedicated Ministry for Men, saying current structures fail to recognise the growing number of male victims of violence, mental health crises, and social neglect.
Speaking during parliamentary debate, Mr Sharma said the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection does not adequately represent the needs of all Fijians.
“Where is the Ministry for Men?” he asked. “Is this not discrimination?”
Mr Sharma acknowledged the serious issue of violence against women, including nine deaths this year, but argued that the government must stop treating violence as a gender-exclusive issue.
“Violence and abuse do not respect gender, age, race, or income. Men too are victims — of abuse, of toxic relationships, and of rising suicide rates,” he said, citing data from the Fiji Police annual report.
He criticised the Minister for Women for focusing only on female victims, and demanded equal attention be paid to men facing violence and exploitation.
Mr Sharma suggested a name change for the ministry to reflect inclusivity:
“If this government can rename the Ministry of Economy to the Ministry of Finance, surely it can be renamed Ministry of Men, Women, Children, Welfare and Social Protection.”
The MP also questioned the effectiveness of government policies on domestic violence, asking whether the Minister has achieved results beyond headlines.
“Your slogans aren’t enough. Your policies aren’t enough. Your funding isn’t enough. What’s needed is a mindset change,” Mr Sharma said.
