Na Marama iTaukei Kei Na Vanua: Culturally embedded agency of indigenous Fijian women - opportunities and constraints

The concept of ‘culturally embedded agency’ presented in this article argues that an agency-oriented approach to women’s agenda is needed. This article focuses on some cultural systems, practices and processes associated with women’s wellbeing. These were identified in a doctoral study exploring the cultural constructs of health and wellbeing of Indigenous Fijian women in a village in Fiji and a transnational community in Aotearoa. These are referred to as forms of culturally embedded agency as they are processes within the culture that contribute to overall wellbeing. Culturally embedded agency calls for social policy that incorporates full participation of women in society, which is inclusive of indigeneity goals, cultural wellbeing and fairness. The article identifies forms of culturally embedded agency that empower women and contributes to their overall wellbeing. The article discusses the limitations, tensions and opportunities within this agency in relation to gender and impacts on health and wellbeing.