A workshop organized by the The Adaptation to Climate Change in the Coastal Zone of Vanuatu has highlighted the critical importance of women’s rights in decision-making, particularly in the context of climate change. This workshop, which was held in the Yarsu Area Council of South Epi, focused on empowering women and ensuring their active participation in community-level decisions.

Women play a significant role in managing day-to-day life within households, yet cultural and customary practices across many islands often limit their involvement in broader community matters. Typically, women are confined to domestic roles and lack a voice in addressing issues that directly affect them.

The Adaptation to Climate Change in the Coastal Zone of Vanuatu aims to address this disparity, especially as climate change continues to impact women’s livelihoods and well-being. On the second day of the workshop, the Department of Women’s Affairs emphasized the importance of women’s empowerment at the community level.

Lilgai Laliet, Acting Principal Compliance Officer at the Department of Women’s Affairs, underscored the alignment of the workshop with international commitments that Vanuatu has signed, focusing on the elimination of discrimination against women. “When women are part of decision-making, we will see more sustainable development,” Laliet said. “Our government is committed to these international agreements, and ensuring women’s participation is critical for our development, especially in Shefa.”

The workshop involved over 50 women and girls from the 14 communities of the Yarsu Area Council. Both men and women participated in discussions, exploring their respective roles and responsibilities within their communities. Chief Johnny Roy Langitonga Tapangamarama emphasized the importance of women’s voices in community decisions, stating, “Women should have a voice in the community. In the Nakamal of Chiefs or Parliament, women must have a say to speak with respect.”

Leipakoa Karie, a long-time representative of the council, shared her experience of the challenges in encouraging women to participate. “When I call meetings, many women don’t attend, maybe because their husbands disapprove, or they are busy in the garden,” she explained. “This workshop has helped a lot in raising awareness.”

Youths also participated in the workshop, recognizing the importance of women’s involvement in community development. Shem Toara, an active youth member, said, “Women are part of development in our community, and they should have the opportunity to share their thoughts, just like us males.”

The week-long workshop provided a platform for over 50 women and girls to engage in discussions on their rights and responsibilities, contributing to a broader understanding of the vital role women play in sustainable development within their communities.