By Raphael Asuliwonnu
Project Manager for the ‘Strengthening Social Cohesion Pathways, Human Rights and Women’s Civic Participation’ Project, funded by the Peacebuilding Fund for the United Nations Development Programme Pacific Office in Fiji.
 

In a world marred by conflicts, violence, and growing inequalities, the United Nations (UN) recognizes the International Day of Peace as a vital reminder for member states to renew their commitment to collaborative efforts for sustainable peace.  This involves addressing the root causes of violence and conflict and fostering inclusive and equitable societies anchored in the principles of human rights and respect for dignity.

The year 2024 is particularly significant as it is the 25th Anniversary of the UN General Assembly’s Resolution on the Programme Action on a Culture of Peace.

A culture of peace is rooted in every community. It is not merely an idea; it is a necessity for fostering inclusive and equitable societies. It is about empowering individuals within communities to play an active role in addressing the underlying structural issues that breed inequalities, marginalization, and lack of access to opportunities. This includes working towards gender equality, not only as a fundamental human right, but also as necessary for a peaceful, and prosperous country.  

The joint UN ‘Strengthening Social Cohesion Pathways, Human Rights and Women’s Civic Participation’ Project in Fiji exemplifies such efforts. The initiative is nationally owned and led by the Government of Fiji, supported by the United Nations Development Programme, UN Women and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights - and is designed to help Fiji address the complex challenges that impact social cohesion, reconciliation and work towards national unity. The project is funded through the UN Secretary-General Peacebuilding Fund and supported by the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office.

The project aims to strengthen the fabric of Fijian society by addressing these challenges through a whole-of-society approach that leverages community engagement, local leadership, and multi-stakeholder collaboration to create sustainable pathways for peace.

Various actors and institutions in Fiji have united through the Social Cohesion Project to advance social cohesion and promote a culture of peace among all Fijians.

Since its inception, the project has facilitated six preparatory dialogue sessions with diverse stakeholders, including Government, representatives of the Itaukei, Indo-Fijian and Rabi communities, Civil society organisations (CSOs), faith-based organizations, women and youth groups, persons with Disability Groups, the LGBTI+ community, and other key actors.

These dialogues have deepened community understanding of social cohesion and fostered grassroots participation and ownership of the project. The project will facilitate provincial and national dialogues around the issues and concerns identified in the preparatory dialogues.

The project has supported the institutional strengthening of key entities, including assisting the accreditation of the Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission and enhancing the capacity of the formal justice sector, including the Fiji Police Force.

Upcoming workshops will engage journalists and human rights defenders, who play a crucial role in fostering dialogue and accountability between citizens and their governments. The implementing UN agencies are also working with the Online Safety Commission to ensure that digital communications contribute to peace and are not misused to spread hate and extremism.

In alignment with the Government’s ongoing nation building process, the project will identify and address instability triggers and foster reconciliation and national unity, enhancing its relevance and sustainability.

The project prioritizes Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment and inclusivity, empowering women, youth, and marginalized groups to take an active role in peace building, in line with the UN’s commitment to gender equality and youth participation in peace processes.

By focusing on inclusive governance, community-driven development, and multi-ethnic collaboration, the project aims to bridge divisions and build lasting peace from the ground up. Respect, empathy and the protection of human rights and dignity must be our guide, even in the most difficult circumstances.

On this International Day of Peace, we invite you to take action.

The Social Cohesion Project serves as a powerful reminder that this vision of peace is possible, not just in the absence of conflicts but in the presence of a respect for the human rights and dignity of all, justice, inclusivity, and unity. Each of us the power to contribute to this vision of peace - whether through dialogue, reconciliation or collaboration.

Today, reflect on how you can be an active agent of change. What one thing can you do to foster peace in your community?

Now is the time for individuals, communities, governmental and non-governmental actors including faith-based and traditional institutions, civil society and academia    to come together, to act and to cultivate a culture of peace.

For further media enquiries please contact:

Risiate Biudole - Communications Analyst, UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji | (E) risiate.biudole@undp.org