UNA Fiji Joins Forum on Advancing the Right to Information
In a transformative forum hosted by the Office of the Attorney-General, representatives from Government agencies, civil society, the media, and international organizations discussed advancing Fiji's Right to Information (RTI) framework. Attorney General Hon. Mr. Graham Leung revealed plans to improve Fiji’s legislative framework, addressing gaps in existing laws while navigating challenges postured by the complexity of ongoing reforms.
“So, this will have to join the queue, but I am committed, together with the support of the Law Reform Commission, to have this legislation enacted and operationalized by the first quarter of 2025,” said Mr. Leung.
Despite being enshrined in the 2013 Constitution, Fiji's RTI framework remains underdeveloped. The 2018 Information Act has yet to be implemented due to the absence of the Accountability and Transparency Commission, a critical mechanism for its operation. Fiji currently ranks 111th globally for RTI laws, in stark contrast to regional neighbor Vanuatu, which ranks 10th.
Key Challenges and Recommendations:
Mr. Toby Mendel, Executive Director of the Centre for Law and Democracy, highlighted shortcomings in the existing Information Act, including its limited scope and bureaucratic processes that hinder timely access to information. He emphasized that strong leadership, coupled with support from civil society and international organizations, could elevate Fiji's RTI framework to meet global standards.
UNESCO representative Mr. Marius Lukosiunas further emphasized that RTI laws empower all citizens, not just media or NGOs, and called for collective action to strengthen Fiji’s governance through transparency.
A Call for Efficiency and Accountability:
Hon. Secretary of UNA Fiji, Mr. Vipin Maharaj, commented that while citizens are often criticized for lacking initiative, the longstanding "cloud of fear and secrecy" within governance systems has contributed to frustration and disengagement. "People are not lazy; they are frustrated by the tedious processes of applying and getting information,"
He further criticized the proposed 20-day processing timeline for information requests, which can be extended by an additional 20 days. "A process that goes beyond a month is too long. The extension process should not be a tool to maximize days and deliver information right on the 40th day." Mr. Maharaj called for stringent sanctions against delays, urging reforms that prioritize citizen needs over bureaucratic convenience.
Information as a Tool for Resilience:
Access to information is not merely a matter of governance but also resilience, as highlighted by Fiji Council Of Social Services (FCOSS) Executive Director Ms. Vani Catanasiga. She noted that communities affected by climate change and natural disasters often face delays in accessing vital government data.
Since 2021, FCOSS has developed tools to assess government openness. "We’ve done assessments of seven government agencies to tell them these aspects of your communications and community engagement services need to improve so that we can recover from the disaster that we’ve just gone through,"
Path Forward:
The Fiji Law Reform Commission, led by Director Raijeli Tuivaga, is conducting consultations to review the Information Act. Plans include establishing the long-overdue Accountability and Transparency Commission and enacting a Code of Conduct law. These reforms aim to foster a culture of openness and rebuild public trust.
UNA Fiji remains committed to its support of these initiatives, recognizing the transformative potential of a strong RTI framework. As the government works toward operationalizing the Freedom of Information Bill, UNA Fiji emphasizes the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure transparency and accountability become a lived reality for all Fijians.
This is a critical step toward building a transparent, inclusive, and democratic Fiji where access to information empowers citizens and enhances resilience in the face of challenges.
With Class, Dignity, & Elegance
