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Fiji became independent in 1970, after nearly a century as a British colony. Democratic rule was interrupted by two military coups in 1987, caused by concern over a government perceived as dominated by the Indian community who are descendants of contract laborers brought to the islands by the British in the 19th century. A 1990 constitution favored native Melanesian control of Fiji, but led to heavy Indian emigration; the population loss resulted in economic difficulties, but ensured that Melanesians became the majority. Amendments enacted in 1997 made the constitution more equitable. Free and peaceful elections in 1999 resulted in a government led by an Indo-Fijian, but a coup in May of 2000 ushered in a prolonged period of political turmoil.

Fiji, endowed with forest, mineral, and fish resources, is one of the most developed of the Pacific island economies, though still with a large subsistence sector. Fiji's economy continues to grow modestly, with various sectors showing mixed performances. Cane and sugar output declined significantly in the 2001 season when compared with the 2000 season. The performance of the garment industry continues to be affected by factory closures. On a positive note, the tourism industry continues to hold up well, despite recent setbacks arising from the September 11 attacks on the US. The outlook for the mining sector remains optimistic. Other sectors such as timber and fisheries are showing strong growth.

Private sector investment remains subdued although there are some indications that construction activity has picked up. Government is also providing a stimulus to investment through its expansionary fiscal stance.

Inflation was close to 5 percent in November, mainly driven by base-related effects and higher prices of alcoholic drinks and tobacco, which reflected the recent 3-5 percent increase in fiscal and excise duties on alcoholic drinks and cigarettes. In an underlying sense, inflation continues to remain low, with the trimmed mean measure of inflation at 2 percent in November.

In the labour market, employment remains weak, particularly in the garment industry. Industry contacts indicate that more garment factories may close in coming months. (Source: Fiji Reserve Bank 2001)

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Women in politics
Women in both the indigenous Fijian and Indo-Fijian communities have functioned primarily in traditional roles; the percentage of women and minorities in government and politics does not correspond to their percentages of the population. However, until the takeover of Parliament in May 2000, an increasing number of women were rising to prominent positions in politics and public service.

In the August elections, 30 Fijian women and 1 Indo-Fijian woman ran for election; 5 women were elected to the House of Representatives. Two women were appointed to the Senate. After the election, four ethnic Fijian women were appointed to the Cabinet (two as ministers and two as assistant ministers), and another was appointed to fill a vacancy in Parliament. Women also play important roles in the chiefly system and can be chiefs in their own right. The wife of former President Ratu Mara is one of the three highest ranking chiefs.

Read this report to know more about women's situation in Fiji.


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Important political facts

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Political resources and other links to Fiji

Women in politics
Important political facts
Political resources