UNA Fiji Attended A 3 Day Validation Workshop on “Fostering Gender-Responsive Climate Policy and Environmental Governance in Nadi.
The Pacific Islands Association of NGOs (PIANGO), in partnership with the International Republican Institute (IRI), has successfully concluded a 3 Day Validation Workshop on “Fostering Gender-Responsive Climate Policy and Environmental Governance in the Pacific Islands”, held at the Tanoa Skylodge Hotel in Nadi on Friday, 11 October 2024. The event, which brought together key stakeholders from Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and Fiji, focused on promoting women's participation in public policy, breaking barriers to their inclusion, and fostering gender-responsive climate governance.
Ms. Emeline Siale Ilolahia, PIANGO’s Executive Director, emphasized the importance of the this initiative in addressing the challenges women face in governance across the Pacific. “Women in the Pacific often face significant barriers to political participation. This initiative is an important step in ensuring that women are central to the creation of climate policies that affect their communities,”
Mr. Drew Havea, PIANGO Deputy Chair, highlighted the significance of this partnership with IRI, noting that the workshop aligns with PIANGO’s broader strategy of fostering inclusive governance through the PIANGO Plus approach. “By bringing multiple stakeholders together, we can leverage partnerships that promote gender-inclusive governance. The 2050 Strategy for a Blue Pacific Continent provides a framework for this, and this workshop has helped solidify that vision,”
Mr. Havea also stressed the critical role of civil society in advocating for women’s inclusion in policymaking, reminding participants that “economic growth and development can only be achieved by improving the lives of women.” He called on civil society to continue pushing for women and youth representation at all levels of government.
During the workshop, participants also took time to celebrate Fiji’s 54th Independence Day, reflecting on the shared struggles for self-determination in West Papua, Kanaky, and Maohi Nui. PIANGO members expressed solidarity with these communities, advocating for their right to self-determination and freedom from colonial rule. No one is free unless everyone is free
On the workshop's final day, Vanuatu Associations of NGOs (VANGO) presented their mapping and FALE report, while sharing a national submission and a six-point engagement plan. These findings were presented to the PIANGO Board Secretariat and will guide future advocacy and policy initiatives on gender-responsive governance.
A delegation from UNA Fiji, led by Hon. Secretary Mr. Vipin Maharaj together with Volunteer Coordinator Ms. Salote Malani, was also in attendance, representing UNA Fiji’s commitment to sustainable development and gender equality. UNA Fiji, part of the CSO network, works to promote the values and objectives of the United Nations at the national level, with a focus on youth and volunteerism. Our presence at the workshop highlights our role in advocating for gender equality and climate action in the Pacific.
The success of this workshop invigorates our shared commitment to promoting good governance and democratic institutions across the Pacific. With the involvement of various organizations, the workshop's outcomes will help inform policies and actions to ensure that women are at the forefront of climate action and decision-making processes in the region.
With Class, Dignity and Elegance
