This following speech was delivered by Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, Pio Tikoduadua at the UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji’s validation workshop on strengthening social cohesion in Suva yesterday. Because of the significance of his remarks on fostering unity and inclusivity, we are publishing this speech in full. The Home Affairs Ministry has also commissioned the National Security and Defence Review and emphasised that human rights is at the heart of national security.
IT is a privilege to stand before such a distinguished group of dedicated individuals working toward the shared goal of building a more inclusive, resilient, and united Fiji. This workshop marks an essential milestone in our journey toward social cohesion, as it is rooted in our collective aspirations to create a society where every Fijian feels heard, respected, and valued.
The recently concluded National Security and Defence Review provided us with an opportunity to reflect deeply on our nation’s priorities in maintaining peace, security, and stability. This comprehensive review reaffirmed a fundamental truth: security is more than safeguarding borders and enforcing laws.
True security encompasses human security – a sense of safety in our homes, schools, workplaces, and communities. In this regard, social cohesion stands at the very heart of our national security strategy. When communities are united, mutual trust grows, grievances find constructive outlets, and the very fabric of our society is strengthened.
In the wake of the NSDR, this workshop allows us to bring a human-centered approach to the forefront. Today’s agenda – informed by initial dialogue sessions with over seven different social groups, including women, youth, people with disabilities, and our LGBTQI+ community – aims to bridge divides. We want to ensure that policy discussions reflect the diverse concerns of our communities. Through this workshop, we seek to validate the findings from these initial dialogues and confirm that the approach for our main dialogues will genuinely address the needs of Fijian communities.
Let me make one thing clear – I believe, unequivocally, that we are all Fijians. It is the right thing to do, good sense says so, and it’s a principle I hold dearly. And I will stand in firm opposition against any attempts to change that. No label, difference, or background should divide us. Our diversity enriches us; it is what makes our nation strong, vibrant and resilient.
This is our shared identity, and this commitment to unity is at the very heart of what I stand for as a leader in this nation. I believe that when we embrace each other as equals, respecting each other’s unique perspectives and experiences, we lay the foundation for a future where every Fijian has the opportunity to thrive and contribute fully to our society. I am an I-taukei, Christian, Catholic—but, I will not claim to own “Fijian” unless it belongs to all of us.
Our work here today will set the stage for inclusive dialogues that address grievances, foster understanding, and build connections across all sectors of society. This will not only strengthen our social fabric but also reinforce the pillars of peace, human rights, and civic participation. We are fortunate to partner with the United Nations Development Programme, UN Women, and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, alongside the invaluable support of the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office. This partnership symbolizes our shared commitment to unity, respect, and inclusion.
I invite each of you to engage fully in this workshop – to share your insights, provide feedback, and bring forward ideas. Together, we will validate the path forward, ensuring our approach resonates with and respects Fiji’s diverse cultural landscape. Let this be a moment of reaffirmation of our joint resolve to build a resilient and cohesive society, one in which every person is valued as an integral part of our Fijian family.
Thank you once again for your dedication and partnership. Let us use this workshop to pave the way toward a more inclusive, understanding, and united Fiji.
