Efforts to support vulnerable populations, including the elderly, unemployed, and individuals with disabilities, have significantly reduced poverty levels in Kiribati, with reductions reaching up to 70%. This announcement was made by Ruth Cross Kwansing, Kiribati’s Minister for Women, Youth, and Social Welfare, during the annual global report card meeting centered on women’s status worldwide.
During her participation at the UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) in New York—marking the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Platform for Action, a pivotal agreement aimed at advancing gender equality—Kwansing emphasized the progress accomplished in Kiribati. She described the Beijing Declaration as a cornerstone in the global pursuit of gender equality, highlighting her personal political journey as a reflection of encouraging changes within her country.
The government of Kiribati is placing a strong emphasis on gender equality to address poverty issues. Minister Kwansing pointed out that recent reforms in social protection and education have been crucial in executing effective projects focused on poverty alleviation while enhancing women’s societal roles. Initiatives like SafeNet, which provides tailored support for survivors of violence, exemplify the holistic approach being employed to ensure vital assistance to those in need.
“Determination is at the heart of our government manifesto as we deal with challenges such as technology-facilitated violence, placing focus on prevention, economic empowerment, and legal safeguards,” Kwansing remarked during the CSW69 plenary session.
Additionally, climate change is a pressing component of Kiribati’s strategic initiatives. Minister Kwansing described the challenges posed by climate change as formidable. The government has recognized the vital role women play in disaster management and adaptation strategies, ensuring that gender considerations are integrated into key national policies, including the Kiribati Joint Implementation Plan for Climate Change.
Collaborative efforts with organizations such as UN Women are fostering community resilience, particularly with recognition of women’s leadership in many resilience-building initiatives. Despite notable progress, Kwansing acknowledged ongoing challenges such as gender-based violence and economic disparities that continue to affect women. She highlighted the importance of education and robust partnerships with NGOs to ensure inclusivity and empowerment remain prioritized.
Kwansing’s inaugural experience at CSW has been marked by learning opportunities, allowing her to showcase Kiribati’s achievements while also gaining valuable insights from global counterparts. The conclusion of CSW69 is anticipated to include an action plan that advances a political declaration established earlier in the week.
This narrative aligns with a broader commitment among Pacific nations to address gender inequality, echoing discussions from neighboring countries such as the Marshall Islands and Fiji, where leaders are unified in the collective journey toward gender equity. As a result, the path forward is optimistic, highlighted by collaborative initiatives that affirm women’s pivotal roles in societal growth and resilience in the face of urgent challenges like climate change.
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