Women’s Minister Lynda Tabuya has urged for the incorporation of gender-responsive language in Fiji’s text for the ongoing COP28 negotiations.
Ms Tabuya made the statement during a briefing attended by key government stakeholders saying this was to prioritise gender inclusivity in climate negotiations.
In a statement, she highlighted the importance of recognising the gender dimensions of climate change and the need for gender-sensitive language within the negotiation text.
Her advocacy aims to ensure that the impacts of climate change are addressed with a gender-inclusive lens, acknowledging the distinct vulnerabilities and roles of women and men in the face of climate-related challenges.
Ms Tabuya’s call aligns with international efforts to integrate gender perspectives into climate policies, reflecting Fiji’s commitment to inclusivity and equality.
She said integrating gender language into the negotiation text not only reflected the realities faced by women but also enhanced the effectiveness of climate strategies by considering the unique needs and contributions of all genders.
Ms Tabuya thanked government stakeholders for their attentive collaboration and urged a collective effort to champion gender equality in the climate discourse.
She added this would align with Fiji’s broader commitment to the principles of the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals, which recognised the interconnectedness of gender equality and climate action.