Akbar urges youths in Fiji to know their rights

Fijian-Palestine Solidarity Network member Ozayr Akbar is urging young people in Fiji to understand their rights and take an active role in strengthening human rights movements in the country and the region.Akbar says human rights begin with the basics — the right to life, food, water, and shelter, but extend further to civil and political freedoms that allow people to participate fully in society.In an interview with fijivillage News, he says the progress made in human rights today exists because others have laid the groundwork, and it is now the responsibility of the next generation to continue that work.Akbar says some young people may be unaware of their rights because privilege has shielded them from experiencing violations firsthand; however, he stresses the importance of recognising that everyone has the right to political participation, basic necessities, and a life lived with dignity.He says every young person should identify which aspect of human rights they can contribute to, as there are always gaps in knowledge and advocacy.Akbar further says youth rights range from access to employment to having representation and a voice in Parliament.He emphasises that holding the state accountable is a healthy part of any human rights discourse.Akbar says people should never feel comfortable with all the actions by the government and must be willing to call out negative changes and push for positive ones.He adds that if anyone feels disenfranchised or that their rights have been taken away, now is the time to speak up and fight back.

@fijivillage.com Akbar urges youths in Fiji to know their rights #FijiNews ♬ original sound - fijivillage