Less women involvement in the workforce
ABOUT 46 per cent of Fijian women end up in the workforce despite making up to 57 per cent of the number of university graduates in our local universities.
This is according to Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection Lynda Tabuya while delivering her address at the Women Invigorating the Nationa (WIN) 2024 Convention at the Grand Pacific Hotel (GPH) yesterday.
She said the gender gap in labour force participation resulted in a shortage of 20 per cent in our gross domestic product (GDP).
“In Fiji we face the reality of missing out on the equivalent of 20 per cent of our gross domestic product due to gender gaps in entrepreneurial activity and labor force participation. Closing these gaps could result in a 33 per cent increase in long-run gross domestic product growth,” Ms Tabuya said.
“What does it take to realise this? Fijian women and girls continue to show for the majority of unpaid care and domestic duties and are mainly engaged in the informal economy. Only 46 per cent of Fijian women are in the labor force compared to 83 per cent of men.
Ms Tabuya said those data spoke volumes and the figures highlighted a significant disparity between Fijian women’s educational achievement and economic development.
“Fiji cannot afford to leave half of its population behind. By investing in women’s economic empowerment with a women-centred approach you’re investing in a more prosperous and sustainable future for all.
“In today’s world, you’re up against numerous challenges, ranging from climate change, economic downturns, and the rise of artificial intelligence, with its profound effects on the future of work and our business environment, to global conflicts and the scourge of gender-based violence.
“Global studies confirm that one of the key solutions to these challenges rests in unlocking the collective strength and potential of all women and girls from diverse backgrounds.”
Ms Tabuya said there was a lot to lose if the fight for gender equality and women’s rights continued to be delayed.