This week, the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference in Bangkok, Thailand, will focus on the strides and challenges in achieving gender equality. Delegates from 12 Pacific nations, along with various civil society organizations, are gathering to be part of this important discussion. Lynda Tabuya, the Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, will represent Fiji at the conference.
Delphine Serumaga, a UN Women representative in Fiji, emphasized the significance of this Asia Pacific Ministerial Meeting on the Beijing +30 Review, stating that it serves as a vital platform to elevate the voices from the Pacific region and reaffirm the commitment to gender equality on an international level. She added, “The Pacific has a powerful role in the journey towards fulfilling the commitments made 30 years ago, and together, we will continue to help progress with this.”
UN Women Fiji has highlighted that during this conference, leaders, advocates, and policymakers aim to ensure that the unique needs, experiences, and aspirations of Pacific women and girls are adequately represented globally.
Fiji has supported the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (BPfA) since its inception in 1995, which focuses on promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls worldwide. Earlier this year, Minister Tabuya informed Parliament that the BPfA process would enable Fiji to conduct a national examination of twelve critical areas, including inclusive development, social protection, and the elimination of violence.
This conference not only marks a critical juncture for assessing progress towards gender equality but also offers a hopeful outlook as nations join forces to address the challenges faced by women and girls in the Pacific. The discussions promise to invigorate commitment and foster collaboration, paving the way for meaningful advancements in gender parity in the region.
In summary, the upcoming conference in Bangkok represents a significant opportunity for Pacific nations to unite in the pursuit of gender equality, reflecting a shared commitment to elevating the voices of women and girls in the region.
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