The International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) has concluded its Pacific Women Lead project in Fiji.
The program was aimed at efforts to strengthen women’s political participation and civic engagement ahead of the return of local government elections.
In a media release, IFES said the project was implemented in partnership with the Pacific Community (SPC) and supported by the Australian Government.
The initiative, which began in December 2024, worked alongside femLINKpacific, SPC and other local stakeholders to improve women’s electoral inclusion and participation in leadership roles.
“Key programme achievements include training more than 300 women in campaign and leadership skills through IFES’ She Leads programme,” the statement said.
The organisation also launched the Better Than This social media campaign aimed at encouraging women’s political engagement and supporting inclusive civic and voter education, particularly among young Fijians.
IFES said the project concluded at a significant time for Fiji as national attention increasingly shifts toward anticipated local government elections.
“The return of local elections presents an important opportunity for broader civic participation and for more women to consider leadership roles at the municipal level,” the release stated.
The organisation said the upcoming elections were expected to provide greater visibility for women’s participation in local governance while strengthening public engagement in community decision-making.
“As discussions continue around inclusive representation and community leadership, the electoral period will also provide an important opportunity to strengthen public engagement and encourage diverse community voices in local decision-making across Fiji.”
SPC, identified as the key implementing partner for the Pacific Women Lead initiative, said the regional programme aimed to promote women’s leadership, advance women’s rights and improve the effectiveness of regional gender equality efforts.
According to the release, SPC has more than 56 million dedicated to its work through the Australian Government’s five-year, AUD170 million Pacific Women Lead regional commitment.
