“Our mothers and grandmothers have been the backbone of our communities, and today, women across the Pacific continue to push boundaries, contributing to all sectors of society,” said Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, as he opened the Pacific Technical Cooperation Session of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) today.
The session, which runs through April 11th, marks a historic moment for the Pacific, bringing together leaders, policymakers, and advocates committed to advancing gender equality and women’s rights in the region.
The Chair of the CEDAW Committee Nahla Haidar highlighted the significance of the session, calling it a historic first for the region: “It is an honor to speak here in my capacity and on behalf of my colleagues who are thrilled to be here with you… This is the first-ever regional technical cooperation session of a UN treaty body, and it is a crucial step toward bringing us closer to the communities.”
She addressed the balance between culture and women’s rights, saying, “We must recognise that often, in the name of tradition, societies have refrained from granting rights. This tension between culture and rights must be addressed.”
Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, Baron Waqa, told the opening that gender equality is vital for the region’s development: “Gender equality is not just a matter of rights; it is essential for sustainable development, peace, and prosperity in the Pacific.”
The one-week event will focus on exchanging insights, strengthening national efforts, and fostering collaboration to improve the lives of women and girls in the Pacific.
