Inequality of Opportunity: Assessing Birth Registration in Fiji
This paper explores inequality in birth registration in Fiji by using Classification and Regression Tree methodology using data from Fiji’s recent Multiple Indicator and Cluster Survey (2021). The findings suggest that while on average 87 per cent of children have their birth registered in Fiji, birth registration can be as low as 59 per cent among furthest behind children. Children under 1 year of age and living in poorer households are less likely to have their birth’s registered with evidence for the i-Taukei community being disadvantaged. Extended models show that mother’s age and education interact with household wealth and child age in creating differences in birth registration. Finally, the paper also provides preliminary evidence for the positive impact of the Parenthood Assistance Payment Programme especially for poorer households.