Tikoduadua pushes for inclusive forces with new report

Fiji's Minister for Defence and Veterans Affairs, Pio Tikoduadua, has launched a Gender Barrier Assessment Report, marking a significant step toward building more inclusive and effective security institutions. The report provides evidence-based findings on the opportunities, challenges, and barriers faced within the nation's disciplined forces.

Tikoduadua stated that the assessment allows institutions to better understand areas of progress and identify practical steps needed to foster a fairer environment. He stressed that women's meaningful participation is not solely about numbers but about recognizing their skills, experience, and leadership contributions. Diverse security institutions, he argued, are better equipped to make decisions, engage with communities, and respond to complex security challenges.

"This is important because women’s meaningful participation in peace operations and across our discipline process is not simply about achieving equal numbers," Tikoduadua said. "It is about recognizing that every individual deserves a neutral opportunity to contribute their skills, experience, and leadership; it is about upholding the principles of fairness, equality, and human rights; and it’s also about strengthening operational effectiveness around the world."

The minister reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to the Women, Peace and Security agenda. He assured that the report's findings will guide future policies, strengthen institutions, and support leadership development. Tikoduadua added that the report will drive real action, promoting values of fairness, integrity, professionalism, and equal opportunity. The Gender Barrier Assessment was developed with support from partners including UN Women and other stakeholders.

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This is important because women’s meaningful participation in peace operations and across our discipline process is not simply about achieving equal numbers. It is about recognizing that every individual deserves a neutral opportunity to contribute their skills, experience, and leadership; it is about upholding the principles of fairness, equality, and human rights; and it’s also about strengthening operational effectiveness around the world.