Pacific Islands women continue to persist in addressing political issues surrounding peace and security, and forum leaders are being called upon to recognize and affirm their contributions.
At a NGO and civil society round-table and media Q&A session over the weekend, Sharon Bhagwan-Rolls, a prominent Pacific feminist known for her work at the intersection of gender, media, and peace-building, was asked how she would like forum leaders to honor the work of Pacific women in peace-building and include them more meaningfully in security decision-making.
Bhagwan-Rolls emphasized the need for leaders to acknowledge the ongoing efforts of Pacific women in these critical areas.
“Women’s participation, whether as civilians or members of civil society, is essential. They must be at the table of national security committees, discussing human security and the nexus of peace and development. Their rights must be protected to ensure safe and meaningful engagement,” she said.
She also highlighted the growing threats women face, including rising levels of violence and the increasing prevalence of online abuse.
“We are a region with the fewest women in formal decision-making structures, the highest rates of violence, and the most unremunerated labor, especially in terms of unpaid care work and human rights standards. These are the realities for women in the Pacific.”
Bhagwan-Rolls urged forum leaders to revisit their 2023 Gender Equality Declaration and ensure its principles are not only financed through national women’s machineries but also fully integrated into the pillars of the New Pacific Strategy, the Sustainable Development Goals, and national governance frameworks.
She further recommended that outcomes from the Forum Women Leaders’ meetings be clearly articulated and reflected in the official communique of the Forum Leaders.
“Forum Women Leaders must be present at these meetings. We need visible demonstrations of equality, not just in gender commitments but also in youth inclusion.
“I’m thinking of my grandson, who will be responsible for shaping the region by 2050. I’ll be over 60 then. This is about empowering a new generation.”
Bhagwan-Rolls concluded by urging leaders to move beyond declarations and commit to action through dedicated, gender-responsive budgeting.
By AGNES MENANOPO
Solomon Star, Honiara
