The 4th Pacific Feminist Forum has closed with a strong message of unity, solidarity and action, as participants called for stronger efforts to address gender-based violence and advance women’s participation in decision-making.

The final day coincided with Thursdays in Black, a campaign showing solidarity with people affected by violence and calling for an end to all forms of gender-based violence.

Participants also contributed to the Outcome Statement of the 4th Pacific Feminist Forum, a living document intended to guide the work of feminist movements across the Pacific in the years ahead.

Stronger feminist voices

Human Rights Coalition CEO and founder Anne Pakoa says one of the key messages Team Vanuatu brought home from the forum was the importance of unity.

“It is important for us to unify our feminist voices so that we can have a stronger voice in our society, particularly on issues of gender-based violence and other forms of violence happening in our homes.”

Pakoa says the forum provided an opportunity to discuss how these issues can be addressed collectively.

She also highlighted the importance of ensuring political self-determination for Kanaky is reflected in the forum’s Outcome Statement, which was still being drafted.

Women in politics

Pakoa also spoke about the need to increase women’s participation in politics and decision-making.

She referred to Vanuatu’s commitment to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, or CEDAW, and said more should be done to turn that commitment into reality.

“We need to continue pushing for women to go into Parliament and make sure CEDAW becomes a reality.”

She also raised the possibility of reserved seats for women in Parliament, similar to reserved seats already used in municipal councils.

Pakoa said political parties could be one starting point for discussions around increasing women’s representation.

After several days of discussions, learning and sharing experiences, participants are now returning to their respective work with new knowledge and a renewed commitment to continue pushing for change across the Pacific.

Photo credit: Sista