The Fiji Government has announced its hosting of the Pacific Technical Cooperation Session of the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) in April 2025. This landmark event, to be held in Suva, represents the first time a CEDAW Committee Session will convene outside Geneva, demonstrating the Pacific region’s dedication to the advancement of women’s rights and gender equality.
Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Hon. Lynda Tabuya, expressed her enthusiasm for the occasion, stating, “We are deeply honoured to welcome the CEDAW Committee to Fiji. This technical cooperation session is a significant milestone for our nation and the Pacific Islands.” The Minister emphasized the importance of the United Nations’ commitment to making human rights a reality through a people-centered approach to treaty body review.
The invitation for the CEDAW Session came during the Pacific Islands Forum Women Leaders Meeting in 2023, highlighting Fiji’s active role in promoting gender equality in the region. Minister Tabuya acknowledged the efforts of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS) and the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC), particularly PROJECT Governance, for their advocacy in supporting Fiji’s bid.
As Fiji readies itself for this monumental gathering, the government reaffirmed its commitment to CEDAW’s principles and the promotion of women’s rights and welfare throughout the Pacific. Minister Tabuya remarked that the session will serve as a unique platform for the Pacific to reflect on its progress and continuing challenges in gender equality, asserting a dedication to aid the Committee in its endeavors.
Ana Pelaez Narvaez, the chairperson of the CEDAW Committee, called the session a historic milestone for both the Committee and the Pacific region. She noted, “This event presents an incredible opportunity to collaborate closely with Pacific nations on vital gender equality issues.”
The Pacific Technical Cooperation CEDAW session is set to catalyze efforts toward achieving gender equality and human rights for all individuals in the region. The gathering will bring together government representatives, civil society organizations, and community members to discuss strategies for enhancing gender equality across the Pacific. The Committee will engage with three Pacific countries to evaluate their CEDAW implementation progress, culminating in concluding observations at the 91st Session in June. Additionally, the session will feature a range of side events and open ‘talanoa’ discussions focused on key thematic issues, welcoming public participation and involvement from regional stakeholders.
As further details on participation opportunities are expected in the coming months, this initiative stands as a hopeful beacon for continued progress in gender equality efforts, fostering a stronger commitment to the empowerment of women and girls in the Pacific.
This event reflects a significant step forward in not only showcasing the Pacific’s efforts in gender equality but also in igniting a collective movement towards equality and human rights for all, generating positive momentum at both regional and global levels.
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