The Fiji Government has announced the hosting of the Pacific Technical Cooperation Session of the United Nations Committee of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). Scheduled to take place in Suva in April 2025, this significant event will be the first CEDAW Committee Session held outside of Geneva, emphasizing the Pacific region’s dedication to promoting women’s rights and gender equality.
Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Hon. Lynda Tabuya, expressed her enthusiasm for this important event, stating, “We are deeply honoured to welcome the CEDAW Committee to Fiji. This technical cooperation session represents a significant milestone, not only for our nation but for the Pacific Islands and the world.” She added that this initiative reflects the United Nations’ commitment to making human rights real for the people it serves through a people-centered approach to treaty body review.
Minister Tabuya noted the invitation to host the session was extended during the 2023 Pacific Islands Forum Women Leaders Meeting and acknowledged the support from PIFS and SPC, especially PROJECT Governance, which advocated for this opportunity.
Fiji’s preparation to host this session highlights the government’s unwavering commitment to uphold CEDAW principles and advance the rights of women and girls. Minister Tabuya emphasized that this gathering provides a distinct chance for the Pacific to share its achievements and address challenges in promoting gender equality.
Chairperson of the CEDAW Committee, Ana Pelaez Narvaez, remarked that this session signifies a historic opportunity for direct engagement with the Pacific region to advance gender equality and address the unique challenges faced by women. She expressed anticipation for collaborative efforts with Pacific leaders to promote and protect women’s rights.
The Pacific Technical Cooperation CEDAW session is set to be a vital moment in the region’s efforts for gender equality, encouraging participation from government representatives, civil society organizations, and community members to discuss strategies for achieving gender equality. The Committee will assess the progress of three Pacific countries in implementing CEDAW, culminating in Concluding Observations at their 91st Session in June. A diverse program of side events and ‘talanoa’ sessions will be available for public participation, inviting stakeholders across the region to engage.
The upcoming session in Fiji promises to be a catalyst for progress, showcasing the Pacific’s commitment to gender equality and enhancing the global dialogue on women’s rights.
This event not only marks a historic milestone for Fiji but also serves as an inspiration for other regions aiming to prioritize gender equality and the well-being of women and girls. It paves the way for meaningful discussions and actions that can lead to transformative change in the Pacific and beyond.
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