Fiji is moving forward with the review of its 6th State CEDAW Report, holding an important stakeholders’ meeting in Suva aimed at promoting gender equality under the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). This meeting is viewed as a key milestone for Fiji’s commitment to uphold CEDAW principles and ensure women and girls can access their full rights and opportunities.
Eseta Nadakuitavuki, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection, emphasized the significance of the meeting by stating it marks a pivotal step in Fiji’s gender equality journey since the nation signed CEDAW in 1995. While acknowledging substantial progress in tackling barriers to gender equality, she also recognized ongoing challenges that need to be addressed.
Nadakuitavuki called for transformative action, urging the government to approach the review process with transparency and a focus on removing obstacles to women’s active participation in society. She reaffirmed that the government’s commitment to CEDAW is essential for national development and aims to create lasting change for women and girls.
Moreover, this review process aligns with Fiji’s upcoming role as the host for the Pacific Technical Cooperation Session of the United Nations CEDAW Committee in April 2025. This event is momentous as it will be the first CEDAW Committee Session held outside Geneva, underscoring the Pacific region’s dedication to enhancing women’s rights and gender equality.
The gathering in April 2025 will allow Fiji to showcase its achievements and challenges concerning gender equality while fostering essential discussions aimed at progressing women’s rights across the region. This positive trajectory reveals Fiji’s proactive approach to improving gender equality, signaling hope for the advancement of women’s rights both locally and throughout the Pacific Islands.
Overall, the efforts to review the 6th State CEDAW Report and host the upcoming session reinforce a robust commitment to gender equality in Fiji, striving for a future where every woman and girl is empowered and free from discrimination.
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