The Fiji Government has announced 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 will be a historic event as it marks the first time a CEDAW Committee Session is conducted outside of Geneva and in the Pacific region, highlighting the commitment to promoting women’s rights and gender equality.
Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Hon. Lynda Tabuya, expressed her enthusiasm for hosting the CEDAW Committee, describing it as a significant milestone for both Fiji and the Pacific Islands. She emphasized that this session is a testament to the United Nations’ commitment to implementing human rights through a people-centered approach.
The invitation for Fiji to host the session was extended during the Pacific Islands Forum Women Leaders Meeting in 2023, and the Minister recognized the efforts of various organizations, including PIFS and SPC, for advocating on behalf of the Pacific countries.
As Fiji prepares for this pivotal gathering, the government reaffirmed its dedication to CEDAW principles and to improving the rights and well-being of women and girls. Minister Tabuya stated that this event presents a unique opportunity for the Pacific to share its successes and challenges in promoting gender equality. She expressed hope that the session would accelerate progress toward women’s human rights in the region.
Ana Pelaez Narvaez, the chairperson of the CEDAW Committee, called this cooperation session a historic moment, emphasizing the importance of working directly with Pacific nations to address the unique challenges faced by women. She expressed enthusiasm for engaging with regional leaders and stakeholders to promote women’s rights and ensure freedom from discrimination for every woman and girl.
The Technical Cooperation CEDAW session in Fiji is anticipated to be a crucial moment for the Pacific and a symbol of progress in the global pursuit of gender equality. It will convene government representatives, civil society organizations, and community members to discuss strategies for achieving gender equality. The Committee will engage with three Pacific nations to assess their CEDAW implementation progress and provide Concluding Observations during the 91st Session in June. There will also be a variety of side events and public ‘talanoa’ sessions on thematic issues aimed at broad participation.
The upcoming months will provide more details on how the public can get involved in this important event.
This historic initiative presents an exciting opportunity for the Pacific region to lead in the global conversation on gender equality, and it reflects a collective commitment to creating a more equitable future for all. The collaborative approach could inspire other regions to follow suit, fostering a wave of positive change in women’s rights around the world.
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