Social cohesion or ‘myth of oneness’?: Implications of the ban on ethnicity statistics in Fiji

Abstract

Race and ethnicity have played significant roles in Fiji’s political landscape since gaining independence in 1970. Acknowledging the distinction between ‘race’ and ‘ethnicity,’ the terms are often used interchangeably in Fijian nomenclature practice, particularly concerning relations between indigenous Fijians and Indo-Fijians. The Bainimarama regime, following the 2006 military coup, implemented policies erasing ethnic identifiers and mandating ‘Fijian’ for all citizens, while prohibiting the publication of racially disaggregated statistics under the guise of combating racism. This move hindered understanding of poverty experiences among different communities. The newly elected government in 2022 has lifted these restrictions, focusing on economic recovery through a consultative multi-sectoral approach. This paper examines Fiji census data and government addresses to explore the implications of the 16-year ban on publishing ethnically disaggregated statistics on collective memory and data equity. Despite efforts to shape a master narrative, the ban has hindered progress in racial equity and understanding emerging inequality hotspots. Recommendations include advancing an integrated national data system, incorporating data in truth and reconciliation processes, establishing institutional norms to prevent abuse of power, and fostering social cohesion through consensus-building that acknowledges diverse perspectives.