New report highlights gaps for Fiji’s female peacekeepers

Female soldiers and policewomen from Fiji remain underrepresented in deployments to international peacekeeping missions, according to a new report. The findings, stemming from the Measuring Opportunities for Women in Peace Operations assessments, highlight persistent barriers that hinder women's full participation in these critical global roles.

The assessment, which focused on Fiji's police and military forces, provides a comprehensive analysis of the challenges faced by women seeking to serve in peace operations. While Fiji has a strong tradition of contributing personnel to UN peacekeeping, this report underscores the need for greater inclusivity to maximize its impact.

By identifying these barriers, the report aims to inform policy and practice. It suggests that implementing inclusive reforms within Fiji's security sector can significantly strengthen the country's peacekeeping contributions. Such reforms could involve addressing recruitment, training, deployment, and retention policies to ensure equal opportunities for women in peace operations.