Women’s leadership is not a luxury but a national development imperative, says Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Hon. Biman Prasad.
Speaking at the Women’s Leadership Pipeline “Pulse Check” Panel at Pasifika Communities University, DPM Prasad reaffirmed the Coalition Government’s commitment to inclusive governance and gender equity.
“The Coalition Government commits to building a Fiji where women’s leadership is not an exception but a norm,” he said.
He praised the efforts of FCOSS, Balance of Power, and women leaders from the District Council of Social Services for building a leadership pipeline rooted in volunteerism, civic engagement, and cultural values.
DPM Prasad highlighted progress in women’s board representation—now at 25%—but noted that political participation remains low, with just 9.1% of seats in Parliament held by women.
In the 2025–2026 National Budget, $4.1 million has been allocated to promote gender equality and support the National Action Plan on Gender-Based Violence.
He also pointed to the rollout of Gender Responsive Budgeting across government as a structural reform to ensure equitable resource allocation.
“Our goal is to empower women from community halls to Parliament and embed leadership for generations to come,” he said.