A PLANNED peaceful protest over the rising cost of living in Vanuatu has been rescheduled to April 21 after organisers failed to receive a parade permit on time.
The protest, organised by Vanuatu Young Women for Change, was originally set to take place earlier this month. However, technical adviser Anne Pakoa of the Vanuatu Human Rights Coalition said the change was necessary because the required permit was not secured in time.
“The peaceful protest has now been moved because the parade permit did not come in early enough,” Pakoa said.
Despite the postponement, preparations and training for participants are continuing this week.
Pakoa emphasised that the event remains focused on development justice, particularly how policies affect women leaders, climate justice, economic justice, and the wider justice system in Vanuatu.
“Mainly, this is about development justice and looking at how policy frameworks can strengthen justice systems in Vanuatu,” she said.
The protest aims to highlight mounting public frustration over the rising prices of basic goods, including rice, meat, juice, flour, and milk.
Pakoa said many households view these increases as unfair pricing and over-profiting on essential items.
“When we talk about injustice, we are also talking about over-profiting on essential products that should remain fair and affordable,” she said.
The march will also provide space for people to raise issues affecting their daily lives, including the right to water, the right to food, fuel concerns, and land rights.
Source: VBTC News
