Fiji has reaffirmed its commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment during the ongoing 69th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) in New York. This year is particularly notable as it celebrates the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a crucial framework aimed at improving the conditions of women and girls globally.
Emily Kamoe-Veiqati, acting director of Fiji’s Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection, underscored the country’s accomplishments in areas such as education, healthcare, and entrepreneurship, highlighting its proactive gender-responsive planning. The Fijian delegation has been actively involved in fostering regional cooperation on gender equality by participating in various side events and meetings intended to bolster collaboration among Pacific nations.
A significant aspect of Fiji’s involvement at CSW69 includes fruitful discussions with international partners. Kamoe-Veiqati met with Dr. Maliha Khan, President of Women Deliver, to discuss Fiji’s prospective contributions to the upcoming Women Deliver 2026 Conference in Melbourne, particularly focusing on leadership in addressing gender-based violence and promoting women’s economic empowerment.
Moreover, Fiji’s commitment is bolstered by support from regional allies. Lynda Tabuya, Fiji’s Minister for Women, has emphasized the crucial need for practical initiatives and accountability to achieve gender equality. She has previously remarked on the challenges posed by ineffective leadership and societal norms that hinder progress, while also celebrating significant achievements, such as the fact that female students represent 57% of graduates in tertiary education.
Fiji’s active participation in CSW69 not only underscores its dedication to advancing women’s rights but also fosters a hopeful perspective for future initiatives aimed at empowering women and girls across the Pacific. The ongoing dialogues and collaborative efforts strengthen the country’s broader aim of building a more equitable society, paving the way for a positive future.
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