The Fijian Government is excited to announce that it will host the Pacific Technical Cooperation Session of the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) in Suva in April 2025. This significant event marks a historic first, as it will be the first time a CEDAW Committee session takes place outside Geneva and within the Pacific region, highlighting the area’s dedication to promoting women’s rights and gender equality.
Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Hon. Lynda Tabuya, expressed her enthusiasm about this milestone. She emphasized that hosting the CEDAW Committee reflects Fiji’s pride and commitment to upholding the principles of gender equality on a global scale. Minister Tabuya noted that this session is a testament to the UN’s effort to make human rights a reality, focusing on a people-centered approach.
The invitation for the CEDAW session was extended by Fiji during the Pacific Islands Forum Women Leaders Meeting in 2023, and Minister Tabuya acknowledged key organizations that advocated for this event on behalf of Pacific nations.
As Fiji prepares for this groundbreaking event, the government reiterates its commitment to enhancing the rights and well-being of women and girls throughout the region. Minister Tabuya remarked that the session represents a unique platform for the Pacific to demonstrate its advancements and challenges in achieving gender equality. She believes the session will act as a catalyst in accelerating progress toward full realization of women’s human rights as well as broader human rights issues for all.
Chairperson of the CEDAW Committee, Ana Pelaez Narvaez, described the forthcoming session as a historic opportunity for direct engagement with the Pacific region to address the unique challenges women face. She anticipates collaboration with Pacific leaders and stakeholders to foster an environment where every woman and girl can live free from discrimination.
The Pacific Technical Cooperation CEDAW session is poised to be a significant event, fostering dialogues among government representatives, civil society organizations, and community members aimed at promoting gender equality across the region. The Committee will engage with three Pacific nations to evaluate their CEDAW implementation progress, culminating in Concluding Observations at their 91st Session in June.
A variety of side events and ‘talanoa’ sessions on thematic issues will be conducted, inviting public participation and involvement from regional stakeholders. More information on how to participate will be provided in the coming months.
This development illustrates a hopeful trajectory for gender equality in the Pacific, as it not only seeks to empower women and girls but also strengthens partnerships and collaborative efforts towards the realization of universal human rights. The upcoming session serves as a promising opportunity for advancement and engagement, heralding a brighter future for gender equality in the region.
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