Border Crossing and Virtual Voyaging: Youth Participation and the Use of the Internet to Create Change in Suva, Fiji

Abstract

This research paper investigates the situation of youth participation, community development and international engagement for young people in Suva, Fiji. It also explores the use, impacts and future potential of the internet to facilitate processes for change. Specifically, its aims have been to: explore and document youth participation and internet use in Fiji, investigate related supporting and limiting demographic and contextual factors, facilitate capacity-building for young people, and inform future practice in Fiji and beyond. The research contributes to, and intersects with, development studies, ICT studies and youth studies. This research celebrates the change agents' successes, presents their challenges and offers possibilities for the future. A participatory action research (PAR) methodology was used to undertake this research. The research participants were integral to shaping and reflecting on the research process and outcomes. An analysis of the research process is included in this paper. The findings of the research indicate that youth participation, community development, and international engagement occur in Suva in varied forms and with varied levels of success. Youth action is having a number of positive outcomes for the young people, society and the environment. Youth are acting as leaders, border crossers and interlocutors, moving between spaces, sharing information and supporting other young people to participate. Adults also play significant roles which both support and inhibit youth change-making. Difficulties experienced with youth participation in Fiji include conflict with traditional structures and norms, low sustainability, and relationships and communication between stakeholders. The internet is used to different degrees by young people for school, work and change-making for information, communication and connection. Barriers to access include high costs, poverty, gender bias and lack of education and awareness. In most instances, internet use is not as participatory and interactive as it potentially could be. The thesis makes recommendations concerning the support of better youth participation practice, working with the community, relationship-building and increasing internet access and utility.