PSGDN calls for action to uphold human rights across the Pacific

Human rights are universal, including the rights of LGBTQI+ people.

This is the key message from Pacific Sexual and Gender Diversity Network (PSGDN) Interim CEO, Loata Tucika, as Fiji and the wider Pacific region mark International Human Rights Day today.

On this day, Ms Tucika is urging governments and communities across the Pacific to protect the dignity, safety, and rights of all people, including those with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions.

“LGBTQI+ people in our region continue to face human rights challenges, including violence, harassment, and discrimination. It is vital that states and communities work together to create safe and inclusive environments for everyone,” Ms Tucika said.

We continue to advance our work through strong regional and international partnerships. Under the DFAT-funded Equality Collaboration, we are working alongside ILGA Oceania, and DIVA for Equality to advance LGBTQI+ rights across the Pacific.

“While we respect the cultural and religious values that shape our societies, it is essential that LGBTQI+ people are able to live free from violence, hate, and discrimination,” Ms Tucika said.

She highlighted that anti-LGBTQI+ violence in Fiji and the Pacific, including targeted attacks over the past decade, is exacerbated by online platforms where hate is spread, and by gaps in protective measures and legislation.

“States have a responsibility to protect all people from harm, including acts of violence, ill-treatment, and harassment, and to ensure accountability and redress when abuses occur,” Ms Tucika said.

She called on governments to strengthen efforts to prevent, monitor, and respond to acts of discrimination, including ensuring that hate crimes based on sexual orientation or gender identity are recognized and addressed appropriately.

“Legislation and policies must be reviewed to ensure they do not unjustly criminalize people because of who they are or how they express their gender. States should uphold international human rights standards while finding culturally sensitive approaches to protection and inclusion,” she added.

Ms Tucika also noted that challenges such as COVID-19 and the ongoing HIV epidemic have disproportionately affected marginalised communities, including LGBTQI+ people, increasing vulnerability to mental health challenges and social exclusion.

“All people deserve to live free from violence, stigma, and discrimination. Upholding the human rights of everyone strengthens our families, communities, and societies as a whole,” Ms Tucika said.

“International human rights law obliges states to ensure that every person can enjoy their rights without distinction. Protecting the rights of LGBTQI+ people is not only a legal obligation but a step toward healthier, safer, and more inclusive societies for all.”

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