Fiji has emphasized its dedication to gender equality and women’s empowerment during the 69th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) in New York. This year’s session is notably significant as it marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, which serves as a framework for enhancing the lives of women and girls worldwide.
Emily Kamoe-Veiqati, Acting Director of Fiji’s Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection, highlighted the nation’s achievements in education, healthcare, and entrepreneurship, as well as its commitment to gender-responsive planning. The Fijian delegation has been proactive in fostering regional engagement on gender equality, participating in side events and meetings aimed at strengthening collaboration among Pacific nations.
This year, Fiji’s presence at CSW69 is further underpinned by discussions with international partners, including a meeting between Kamoe-Veiqati and Dr. Maliha Khan, President of Women Deliver. They explored Fiji’s potential role in the upcoming Women Deliver 2026 Conference in Melbourne, focusing on leadership in combatting gender-based violence and enhancing women’s economic empowerment.
Additionally, Fiji’s commitment to global gender equality is supported by regional allies. Previous statements from Fiji’s Minister for Women, Lynda Tabuya, noted the importance of practical initiatives and accountability in reaching gender equality. In past conferences, Tabuya pointed out that challenges such as ineffective leadership and societal norms continue to impede progress but also emphasized significant improvements, such as the representation of female students as 57% of graduates from tertiary institutions.
Fiji’s participation in CSW69 not only reflects its strong resolve towards advancing women’s rights but also allows for a hopeful outlook on future initiatives that can empower women and girls throughout the Pacific. The collaborative spirit and ongoing dialogues around gender equality resonate strongly within the country’s broader commitment to creating a more equitable society, promoting a positive trajectory for the future.
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