Women, Children & Social Protection

SODELPA is committed to ensuring that women, children, and vulnerable groups in Fiji enjoy full protection, equal opportunity, and meaningful participation in national life.

The Party believes that strong social protection systems, gender equality, and the empowerment of women and children are essential to building a fair, just, and prosperous Fiji.

Background

SODELPA has consistently advocated for the advancement of women and the protection of children. The Party recognises the challenges faced by women and families, particularly in rural and underprivileged communities, and the need for policies that ensure safety, inclusion, and opportunity for all.

SODELPA’s vision for women, children, and social protection is rooted in compassion, equality, and respect for human dignity — ensuring that no Fijian is left behind.

Our Vision

A Fiji where every woman and child is safe, empowered, and supported — where social protection ensures that all citizens, regardless of background or circumstance, have the opportunity to live with dignity and security.

Key Policy Priorities

1. Women’s Empowerment & Participation

Increase the representation of women in leadership, governance, and community decision-making.
Support women’s entrepreneurship and access to financial resources, especially in rural and informal sectors.
Provide training, mentorship, and business development support for women-led enterprises.
Create equal employment opportunities and strengthen protections against workplace discrimination and harassment.

2. Child Rights and Protection

Strengthen legal frameworks and enforcement to protect children from violence, neglect, exploitation, and abuse.
Expand access to quality early childhood education, nutrition, and healthcare.
Support family and community-based programmes that promote child development, wellbeing, and safety.
Encourage positive parenting and awareness on children’s rights and responsibilities.

3. Social Protection for Vulnerable Groups

Expand and strengthen social welfare programmes for women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.
Introduce targeted financial assistance and community support to reduce poverty and vulnerability.
Link social protection programmes with education, employment, and health initiatives to promote long-term self-reliance.
Ensure all programmes are inclusive, gender-sensitive, and accessible to rural and remote communities.

4. Family and Community Support Services

Strengthen family values through community-based services, parenting support, and family counselling.
Partner with faith-based organisations, NGOs, and local leaders to deliver family and social welfare services effectively.
Promote work-life balance, support caregivers, and expand access to childcare facilities.

5. Violence Prevention & Protection Systems

Enforce zero tolerance for gender-based violence, domestic abuse, and child exploitation.
Strengthen law enforcement, family courts, and social services to protect victims and ensure accountability.
Promote national awareness campaigns on respect, equality, and non-violence.
Support rehabilitation programmes for survivors, focusing on recovery, education, and reintegration into society.

6. Disability & Inclusion

Ensure persons with disabilities, especially women and children, have equal access to education, employment, and healthcare.
Improve infrastructure accessibility and inclusive education.
Expand support programmes and social assistance for families caring for persons with disabilities.

7. Monitoring, Accountability & Participation

Establish transparent systems to monitor the delivery and impact of women, children, and social protection programmes.
Promote community participation in policy design and feedback mechanisms.
Ensure gender-responsive budgeting and effective allocation of resources to meet social welfare objectives.

Looking Ahead

As SODELPA prepares for the 2026 General Election, the Party renews its commitment to building a compassionate and inclusive Fiji.

Through effective leadership, partnership, and social justice, SODELPA envisions a nation where every woman and child has the chance to live free from fear, empowered to achieve their potential, and supported by a social protection system that upholds dignity for all.