Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC) is taking the lead in ensuring equality in elections management, hosting a two-day workshop titled ‘Gender and Us’.
The workshop for all SIEC staff kicks off today at the Honiara Hotel.
“This workshop is a significant step forward in SIEC’s efforts to become a more gender-sensitive and transformative organization”, Chief Electoral Officer, Polycarp Haununu said.
“The SIEC is committed to being a leader in this area.”
The workshop aims to help SIEC staff to develop a common understanding of what gender equality is.
Over the two days, participants will develop a roadmap for gender mainstreaming in Solomon Islands electoral cycle and gender policy governing the Office of the SIEC.
“The workshop will ask staff to consider our own attitudes, behaviors, stereotypes and biases”, Mr Haununu said.
“Ultimately, making a more equitable and inclusive workplace will allow us to provide a better service to the citizens of Solomon Islands. “
Other issues that will be discussed during the workshop include ‘Understanding Gender Inequalities’, Understanding Power’ and ‘Wearing the “Gender Equality” lens’ to examine SIEC and its functions.
After two days of deliberation, the SIEC expects to have developed a Gender Policy and a Gender Mainstreaming Strategic Plan.
“Earlier this year, the SIEC joined a range of other stakeholders at the highly successful Women’s Leadership and Political Participation Regional Conference,” Mr Haununu said.
“By contrast, this workshop is a chance for us to look inward and see how we can improve our workplace practices and organisational culture to promote gender equality.”
The workshop is being staged in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme’s ‘Strengthening the Electoral Cycle in Solomon Islands Project’.
