Targeted assistance for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, unemployed, and individuals with disabilities has led to an impressive decrease in poverty levels in Kiribati, with a reported reduction of up to 70%. This achievement was highlighted by Ruth Cross Kwansing, the Minister for Women, Youth, and Social Welfare, at the annual global report card meeting focused on women’s issues worldwide.
Minister Kwansing is presently attending the UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) in New York, which this year commemorates the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Platform for Action—a seminal agreement advocates for global gender equality. She emphasized that the Beijing Declaration has served as a pivotal turning point in the fight for gender equality and showcased her own political journey as evidence of progress within Kiribati.
To combat poverty effectively, the Kiribati government has prioritized gender equality through various social protection and education reforms. Initiatives like SafeNet, which provide a dedicated support system for survivors of violence, underline the holistic strategies employed in this endeavor. Kwansing stated, “Our determination is clear in the government manifesto,” as she addressed emerging challenges such as technology-facilitated violence while prioritizing economic empowerment and legal protections for women and girls.
Climate change remains a significant concern for Kiribati, with Minister Kwansing describing the associated challenges as “insurmountable.” The government’s strategy includes placing women at the center of disaster management and adaptation efforts, integrating gender considerations into vital national policies such as the Kiribati Joint Implementation Plan for Climate Change.
In conjunction with support from organizations like UN Women, there is a growing recognition that women’s roles are crucial in building community resilience amidst these challenges. However, Kwansing also acknowledged that barriers persist, including gender-based violence and economic inequalities, indicating the urgent need for continued attention to education and partnerships with NGOs to drive inclusivity.
Reflecting on her experience at CSW, Minister Kwansing expressed gratitude for the opportunity to join the global discourse, emphasizing the achievements made in Kiribati while learning from the experiences of other nations. The CSW69 session will conclude with an action plan designed to advance a political declaration adopted earlier in the week.
This narrative aligns with a broader commitment among Pacific nations to address gender inequality, mirroring discussions occurring in neighboring countries like Fiji and the Marshall Islands. Such collaboration showcases a collective journey towards gender equity, where optimism is abundant, driven by initiatives recognizing women’s essential roles in societal advancement and resilience against pressing issues such as climate change.
The path forward looks promising, as nations unite their efforts to enhance gender equality, igniting hope for a more inclusive and equitable future.
Leave a comment