The situation in Fiji has deteriorated to the point where new constitutional ground rules seem the only way to overcome irreconcilable positions.

The citizens of Fiji, like most others in the South Pacific, have not done all that well over the past generation in fulfilling their aspirations for peace and prosperity. Fijis good start at independence as a peaceful, well-administered, medium-income country was not followed by sufficient economic growth. Now the very fabric of a racially harmonious, just and secure country is in jeopardy. Backsliding, fear and pessimism prevail in Fiji, whereas many citizens in countries that were poorer than Fiji a few decades ago are now participating confidently and profitably in the globalised economy. It is little wonder that violent civil conflicts and rebellions erupt periodically.

The various communities of Fiji face a critical challenge. No longer is it an option to cling to traditional institutions and big government, to drift and be left behind. The only viable path forward is constitutional rejuvenation modernising some of the ground rules of community life in order to prosper and become secure and peaceful. The initiative for this has to be taken by the people of Fiji. The time has long passed when constitutional concepts could be imposed from outside. All an outside observer can do is offer ideas that have worked elsewhere and that may help, if properly adjusted to Fiji’s conditions.