7 April 2026
Kristie Drucza, Kate Learmonth, Mosese Qasenivalu

Fiji is facing a worsening sexual and reproductive health crisis that is hurting young people, families and the economy, but new community research shows that Fijians already have practical solutions that could turn things around if they were properly supported.

Rising teenage pregnancy, high rates of sexually transmitted infections and HIV, and widespread violence in relationships are making it harder for girls to stay in school, work and plan their futures. These problems are not just about individual choices. They are rooted in gender inequality, silence and shame around sex, and services that often feel unwelcoming or unsafe, especially for young people and those who already face discrimination. At the same time, Fiji has a strong policy foundation and a long history of valuing family and community care, which means there is a real chance now to match commitments with action.

Continued: https://devpolicy.org/from-taboo-to-transformation-fixing-fijis-sexual-and-reproductive-health-gap-20260407/