The UNDP Pacific Office, Team Leader for Effective Governance and Economic Growth Mr Rustam Pulatov;
Representatives from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP);
BRIDGE Workshop Facilitators, and
My FEO Family.
Ara Na Yadra and a Victorious Morning to you All,
It is both an honor and a privilege to open this BRIDGE Workshop on Voter and Civic Education, a vital initiative that emphasizes our collective responsibility to build a well-informed, engaged, and empowered electorate.
At the Fijian Elections Office (FEO), we believe that a strong democracy is built on knowledge, participation, and trust. As we move towards the 2026 General Elections, our mission is clear, and that is to ensure that every Fijian, regardless of their background or location, has access to accurate, timely, and inclusive electoral information. This workshop is a key step in realizing that vision.
First and foremost, I extend my deepest gratitude to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for their unwavering support in strengthening electoral processes in Fiji. Your commitment to democracy and civic engagement has been instrumental in advancing voter education in our country.
I also want to acknowledge the BRIDGE facilitators, whose expertise, passion, and dedication will guide us through these next three days. Your role in shaping this learning experience is invaluable, and I have no doubt that your insights will inspire and empower us.
Civic and voter education is not just a process, but a responsibility. A well-informed electorate is the foundation of a transparent, participatory, and accountable democracy. When voters understand their rights, responsibilities, and the electoral process, they are more likely to engage meaningfully in national decision-making.
Through this workshop, we will explore innovative and effective strategies to ensure that voter education reaches every corner of Fiji. Our approach must be inclusive and forward-thinking, leveraging both traditional methods and digital innovations to engage young people, first-time voters, and underrepresented communities.
While the Stakeholder Engagement and Awareness (SEA) Department and the Learning and Development Department lead these efforts, the responsibility does not rest on their shoulders alone. Every department within the FEO has a critical role to play and collaboration is key. You will get the opportunity to hear from the two Managers when they present during their sessions.
Otherwise, we must ask ourselves:
- How can we integrate voter education into everything we do?
- How can we work together to ensure no voter is left behind?
- How can we make our outreach efforts more engaging, accessible, and impactful?
- By working together, we can ensure that every Fijian has the confidence, knowledge, and motivation to participate fully in the electoral process.
The Voter Outreach for Transparent Elections (VOTE) Fiji Project is a testament to this commitment. This initiative is designed to improve transparency, foster civic engagement, and expand voter awareness efforts.
Through VOTE Fiji, we are reaching out to:
- Underrepresented communities who may feel disconnected from the electoral process.
- First-time voters who need guidance and encouragement to exercise their rights, and
- Citizens across all demographics through both digital and traditional outreach methods to maximize impact.
This is more than just an initiative. It is a promise to the people of Fiji that we will continue working tirelessly to ensure free, fair, and informed electoral participation.
Over the next three days, you will:
- Expand your knowledge of civic education, voter education, and voter information programs.
- Learn best practices for planning and implementing voter education initiatives, and
- Engage in practical exercises to develop effective, innovative, and inclusive outreach strategies, and
- Collaborate and exchange ideas to refine our voter awareness efforts for 2026 and beyond.
This is a rare and valuable opportunity. Not just to learn, but to shape the future of voter engagement in Fiji.
I therefore urge each of you to participate fully, challenge yourselves, and think beyond the ordinary. The knowledge, skills, and ideas you develop here will have a direct and lasting impact on our nation’s democracy.
Once again, I extend my sincere appreciation to the UNDP, the BRIDGE facilitators, and everyone involved in making this workshop a reality.
I wish you all a productive, insightful, and inspiring three days ahead.
May the Lord bless you and keep you, may He make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you, and may He turn His face toward you and give you peace.
With those words, I officially declare the BRIDGE Workshop on Voter and Civic Education open.
Thank You, Vinaka Vakalevu.
