The low level of women's representation in the Pacific's Parliament is a critical challenge for democracy and the sustainable development of our region.
This was highlighted by President Jioji Konrote while officiating at the opening of the Pacific Women on Power Forum for Women Members of Parliament in the region at Sofitel Fiji Resort in Denarau Nadi last night.
Konrote also highlighted that the Pacific region has the lowest level of women's political representation in the world adding that this has been the case for many years.
He adds that it is well known that the under‑representation of women in any level of governance and decision making can result in a democratic devasty.
Konrote stressed that it has been proven time and again that diverse groups make better decisions.
He says this is particularly true when it comes to tasks as challenging as representing the views of innocent citizens of any country.
The President also acknowledged the vision, passion and leadership of the late Speaker of Parliament, Dr Jiko Luveni who he says was a great leader, an honest and humble civil servant as well as the first female speaker of the Fijian Parliament.
