The Fiji Young Women’s Forum has acknowledged the participation of 56 female candidates for the 2018 national elections.

In a statement today, the Forum says it is encouraging to learn that six young women candidates are below the age of 30 years.

With the country preparing for the general elections next Wednesday, the Forum believes it is critical that the voices of diverse young women are visible throughout Fiji’s democratization progress.

The Forum adds, effective equal and safe political participation of women and young women is vital for a strengthened democracy promoting gender equality and women’s human rights.