Fiji Indigenous Group Backs New Rights Bill, Citing International Links

Fiji needs the proposed Rights of Indigenous Peoples Bill to formally recognize and promote indigenous rights, according to the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei. The organization presented its views during submissions to Parliament’s Standing Committee on the Bill, which aims to align Fiji with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).

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There are legislations which has already been established in the past which safeguard the iTaukei rights and there’s no need to come up with another legislation such as this. We just need to strengthen those legislations which are already there.

Assistant Minister for Justice Josaia Niudamu questioned the necessity of new legislation, stating that existing laws already safeguard iTaukei rights and only need strengthening. However, Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei President Adi Finau Tabakaucoro disagrees. She emphasized that the proposed Bill is distinct because it would formally connect Fiji to the international framework established by UNDRIP, a move the organization has long advocated for.

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I disagree because this legislation ties up Fiji to an international arrangement which we have been insisting on having for some time.

Tabakaucoro asserted that this legislation will bolster Fiji's standing under UNDRIP. Furthermore, she believes it will empower indigenous organizations by granting them access to international systems and resources, thereby enhancing their ability to protect and promote indigenous rights on a global scale.

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Tabakaucoro says the legislation will strengthen Fiji’s position under UNDRIP and allow indigenous organisations to access international systems and resources.