Fiji

For several years following its independence from Britain in 1970, Fiji was cited as a model of human rights and multiracial democracy in the Pacific region. However, a succession of coups in 1987 and in May of 2000 left Fiji struggling to regain its political and economic stability. Much of the turmoil has been tied to ethnic tensions between indigenous Fijians and the Indo-Fijian descendents of indentured laborers. The indigenous Fijians control land rights and are guaranteed political authority by the current constitution. The Indo-Fijian's major voting bloc is composed of sugarcane farmers who have used widespread boycotts of the sugar industry as leverage to gain political influence. However, rule of law is still firmly established and both sides are working to reconcile their political differences and reinvigorate the economy. In May 2006, Fiji successfully held fair and open general elections.

Though Fiji has one of the most developed economies in the Pacific, political instability and fluctuations in the worldwide sugar markets have impeded economic growth. Since the coups, Fiji has suffered a high rate of emigration of skilled and professional personnel resulting in shortages in service sectors such as education and healthcare. Furthermore, nearly 50 percent of the population lives below or close to the poverty line, particularly in the rural areas. Over-fishing and environmental degradation have reduced food security from traditional sources.

While revenues from tourism, sugar, and garment exports remain the largest contributors to the economy Fiji also has timber and mineral reserves. Fishing is also important as an export sector and for domestic consumption. Long-term problems include low foreign investment rates and uncertain property rights.

Last updated Sep 28 2008