PUBLIC finance decisions must connect clearly to people’s lives through ongoing dialogue and adjustment.
And the decisions must be based on an inclusive approach which reflects diverse perspectives and real needs
United Nations Development Programme Deputy Resident Representative, Abduvakkos Abdurahmanov, said budget choices affected everyday lives.
He made the comment while addressing Vaka Pasifika Project participants in Suva, Fiji.
“Governments need better ways to align plans, budgets, and delivery for real impact. Achieving alignment demands continuous discussion among policy makers, budget managers, and communities,’’ he said.
“Civil society plays a key role in feedback and monitoring. During COVID, civil society helped tailor support for vulnerable groups, such as informal women workers.
“Communities actively monitored infrastructure projects and flagged delivery gaps. Digital and social media platforms enabled live public engagement on budget issues.
“This real-time feedback loop improves responsiveness and accountability.’’
Risk management in budgeting
Managing risks transparently allows Fiji to maintain investment and partnerships despite climate and economic threats.
Fiji faces unavoidable risks from climate and economic shocks, and the focus is on strengthening risk management rather than avoiding risks altogether.
Abdurahmanov added aligning planning, budgeting, borrowing, and external financing makes risks clearer and easier to handle
“Transparent processes help sustain investor confidence and partnership commitments, and effective risk management supports long-term fiscal stability and development efforts,’’ he said.
Fiji leads the region in making budget data accessible and engaging the public in governance digitally.
Fiji’s digital budget initiatives improve transparency and trust, and research with La Trobe University and FCOSS highlights progress in institutional engagement and accountability.
“Digitalisation moves beyond publishing info to making it user-friendly and accessible. This approach aligns with Fiji’s Vision 2050 focus on accountable governance,’’ Abdurahmanov said.
“It also supports the EU’s Global Gateway strategy for secure, inclusive digital connections.”
Continued engagement is essential despite progress, and the two-day dialogue underscores that success is ongoing, not a finished achievement.
The European Union and partners like PIANGO and FCOSS play crucial roles in supporting this process, and maintaining momentum in connecting policy, finance, and results remains a priority for Fiji.