The Commonwealth Women’s Forum opened today in Samoa, calling for renewed efforts to achieve gender equality and empower women and girls across 56 member countries, representing a third of the world’s population.
Held just before the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), the forum brings together hundreds of delegates to discuss important issues such as women in leadership, ending violence, and addressing discrimination based on age, disability, identity, and poverty.
Despite global efforts, gender inequality continues to be a serious issue worldwide.
Over the next two days, delegates will propose actions for Commonwealth leaders to push for stronger policies to remove barriers that hold women back.
Samoan Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa, the first woman to lead a Pacific Island Commonwealth country, pledged her support, saying, “I look forward to advancing these priorities as we set our future course.”
Ongoing Challenges
Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland KC, the first woman in her role, stressed the need to keep women at the center of the Commonwealth’s mission. She pointed out that while progress has been made, women still face challenges like violence, income inequality, and exclusion from leadership.
“Women are essential to progress, yet they still face significant hurdles,” she said. “Together, we can make gender equality a reality.”
Samoa’s Minister for Women, Hon Mulipola Anarosa Ale-Molio’o, emphasised the need for urgent action, stating, “We are here to act, not just talk. Together, we can drive meaningful change.”
Women and Climate Action
A key topic of the forum is women’s role in addressing climate change. Experts will explore how to ensure women are fully involved in climate action, from policymaking to implementation.
Hon Myles K. Laroda, The Bahamas’ Minister of Social Services, highlighted how Hurricane Dorian affected women and girls, calling for urgent gender-responsive climate solutions. “Investing in women and girls is key to driving transformative change,” he said.
Collective Action for Change
Speakers, including Samoan Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa, Tuvaluan Prime Minister Feleti Penitala Teo, women’s affairs ministers, and women’s advocacy organisations, will address the gathering under the theme, “Collective Action for a Resilient Commonwealth: Solidarity for Gender Equality.”
The forum, which ends on 22 October 2024, is co-organised by the Commonwealth Secretariat and the Government of Samoa.
