Targeted initiatives for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, unemployed, and individuals with disabilities, have led to a remarkable reduction in poverty levels in Kiribati, with figures dropping by as much as 70%. This was reported by Ruth Cross Kwansing, the Minister for Women, Youth, and Social Welfare of Kiribati, during the annual global report card meeting focused on the state of women worldwide.
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 landmark agreement that promises gender equality—Kwansing highlighted Kiribati’s progress. She referred to the Beijing Declaration as a crucial milestone in the global journey for gender equality and shared her personal political journey as indicative of positive change within her nation.
The government of Kiribati is prioritizing gender equality as a means to combat poverty. Minister Kwansing noted that recent social protection and education reforms have been pivotal in driving impactful projects targeting poverty alleviation while promoting women’s roles in society. Initiatives like SafeNet, a dedicated support system for survivors, illustrate the comprehensive approach being taken to provide necessary assistance.
“Determination is evident in our government manifesto as we confront challenges such as technology-facilitated violence, focusing on prevention, economic empowerment, and legal protection,” Kwansing stated during the CSW69 plenary session.
Climate change also plays a significant role in Kiribati’s agenda as Minister Kwansing described these challenges as “insurmountable.” In tackling these issues, the government has placed women at the core of disaster management and adaptation strategies, embedding gender considerations into critical national policies, such as the Kiribati Joint Implementation Plan for Climate Change.
Collaboration with organizations such as UN Women is promoting resilience-building among communities, particularly recognizing that women lead many of these efforts. However, despite progress, she acknowledged persistent barriers affecting women, including gender-based violence and economic inequality. Minister Kwansing emphasized the essential role of education and robust NGO partnerships to foster inclusivity and empowerment.
Kwansing’s participation in her first CSW is described as a learning experience, emphasizing the significance of sharing Kiribati’s accomplishments while also gaining insights from global counterparts. The CSW69 session is set to conclude with an action plan aimed at furthering a political declaration adopted earlier in the week.
This narrative reflects a broader commitment among Pacific nations to tackle gender inequality, echoing themes from similar discussions held in neighboring nations like the Marshall Islands and Fiji, where leaders emphasize the collective journey towards gender equity. As such, the path forward is framed with optimism, driven by collaborative efforts that recognize women’s integral role in societal advancement and resilience against pressing challenges like climate change.
Leave a comment