The University of Fiji is calling for stronger commitment on the part of the State to eliminate racial discrimination, especially against minority cultural and linguistic communities, to promote inclusion in Fiji as it marks the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on 21 March.
The day commemorates the victims of the 1960 Sharpeville Massacre in South Africa, where peaceful protesters lost their lives while standing against apartheid laws. The date remains a global reminder of the urgent need to confront racism in all its forms and to uphold equality and human dignity worldwide.
Highlighting Fiji’s unique multicultural identity, the University noted that the nation’s strength lies in its diversity, with people of different cultures, faiths and ethnic backgrounds living and working together. This diversity continues to shape Fiji’s social fabric and national identity and is upheld by the University in its policy framework.
Vice-Chancellor, Professor Shaista Shameem, emphasized the critical role of young people in shaping a more inclusive and equitable future.
“We need to set an example for young people so that they do not repeat or re-hash the prejudices of the past. The upcoming Education Bill is focused on the need to promote harmony in the educational curriculum in Fiji, and this is a good illustration of how the law can play its part in fostering the right of everyone to be free from racial discrimination.”
Professor Shameem said that racial discrimination was an objectionable prejudice, appearing in law and policy, and quite often masqueraded as an attitude that was natural or inevitable in the human condition. “However, prejudice, which may well be a human flaw, when translated by the State into policy or law, is racial discrimination and prohibited under international human rights conventions which Fiji has ratified” she said.
The University said Fiji’s constitutional protections, past and present, prohibited racial discrimination; and it was also a signatory to the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD). Fiji was bound to report regularly to the ICERD Committee.
In his message marking the day, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres stressed that racism continues to persist globally, driven by historical injustices and modern challenges such as hate speech and discrimination. He called for unity and coordinated action by governments, institutions and communities to uphold human rights and dignity for all.
The University of Fiji reaffirmed its commitment to fostering inclusive campuses and communities grounded in equality, respect and mutual understanding.
