BODY CALLS FOR PROTECTION

Strumphet Alliance Network (SPAN), a non-profit network in Fiji, has called out to state and non-State actors to take a robust and just approach to uphold the rights and freedoms of all Fijians including the marginalised.

On the Human Rights Day observed last Saturday and leading up to the International Day of Ending Violence Against Sexworkers on December 17,

SPAN is making the stand in promoting and protecting the rights and civil liberties of sex workers in all their diversities.

SPAN co-ordinator Sophie Radrodro said as a movement that worked across the intersections of gender, they were concerned at the recent homophobic and transphobic rhetoric and hate statements online in Fiji, during these times of national democratisation processes.

“The 2013 Constitution prohibits discrimination against people based on sexual orientation and gender identity and expression,” Ms Radrodro said.

“Queer and transgender citizens in our community, our family are already marginalised within our society and comments in particular by the recent social media post by various individuals are extremely dangerous and only exacerbate the existing discrimination and violence of queer and transgender Fijians.”

“We believe at SPAN that LGBTIQ+ and sex workers are entitled to the equal respect for their dignity and equal respect, protection and fulfilment of their fundamental human rights, just like everyone else.”

Ms Radrodro urges future leaders to act swiftly and to repeal discriminatory laws and policies including decriminalising sex work, and prohibit unsafe practices.