Preparations are in progress for next week’s Pacific Technical Cooperation Session of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) Committee.
Labelled a historic event, this is the first time the committee is hosting a session out of Geneva and in the Pacific.
Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran said hosting the session underscored Fiji’s leadership and commitment to advancing gender equality and women’s rights in the Pacific.
“It provides an opportunity for Fiji to showcase its progress in implementing the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women while addressing challenges unique to the region,” Ms Kiran said.
“This event also strengthens Fiji’s role as a regional hub for human rights advocacy, fostering collaboration among Pacific nations and international stakeholders.”
The session, she said, enabled Pacific voices to be heard on the global stage, while addressing unique challenges faced by women in the region such as climate impacts, gender-based violence, and access to education.
“It’s important to recognise that the significance of this event, and the CEDAW framework as a whole, directly impacts the every day lives of women, regardless of their profession, age, or background,” she said.
“Whether you’re a woman working in a garment factory, a housewife, or a young girl, the principles of CEDAW are meant to protect your rights, improve your opportunities, and ensure that you are treated with fairness and dignity.”
To make the significance of this event relatable to all women, Ms Kiran said there’s a need to focus on raising awareness of how these rights directly benefited their every day lives.
“It’s about breaking down the legal and technical language of CEDAW and connecting it to practical examples that women can identify with — whether it’s better working conditions, access to healthcare, or the freedom to make decisions about their bodies and futures.
“We must ensure that the voices of women from all walks of life are heard and their needs are reflected in the policies and initiatives we advocate for.”
The Pacific Technical Cooperation Session of the CEDAW Committee will take place from April 7 – 11.