Meaningful representation goes beyond numbers – Speaker Jitoko
In Fiji, we understand that meaningful representation goes beyond the numbers—it is about bringing diverse voices, life experiences, and leadership styles into our decision-making spaces. It means truly reflecting the hopes and realities of the people we serve.
This was highlighted by the Speaker of the Fijian Parliament the Hon. Filimone Jitoko during the panel discussion on ‘Women’s and Youth Participation in Parliament in a Time of Polarization and Adversity’, along the margins of the Sixth World Conference of Speakers currently underway in Geneva, Switzerland.
He elaborated on the initiatives undertaken by the Fijian Parliament to confront the long-standing challenges of underrepresentation.
“The Fijian Parliament has proudly championed initiatives such as the Women’s and Youth Mock Parliaments, platforms which are crafted to ignite ambition, grow confidence, and nurture leadership across our nation.”
“These initiatives form part of a broader national effort to foster leaders who govern with empathy, think with foresight, and work in a spirit of unity. Because exclusion fuels division, whilst inclusion builds shared purpose and lasting progress.”
The Hon. Speaker stressed that when women and youth participate, our democracy becomes more dynamic, more equitable, and more relevant to daily life.
As Fiji approaches the next general election, Hon. Jitoko took the opportunity to call upon the young people and women to step forward—to run, to vote, to advocate, and to lead.
“We believe that leadership is not defined by age or gender, but by ideas, courage, and a sincere commitment to serve.”
“Let us shape a Parliament that reflects all of us. Let us turn the challenges of polarization into opportunities for connection, collaboration and transformation.”
The panel discussions seek to address the structural changes needed within parliaments to foster a more gender-sensitive and inclusive environment that supports gender parity and diversity in parliamentary representation with a focus on young women’s participation.
On Wednesday, the Hon. Speaker is expected to deliver his address to the General Debate on ‘A World in Turmoil: Parliamentary cooperation and multilateralism for peace, justice and prosperity for all.
The Sixth World Conference of Speakers will conclude on Thursday, 31 July 2025, with the adoption of the High-Level Declaration.
-ENDS-
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