The European Union (EU) Ambassador to Solomon Islands says the human resources of Solomon Islands are not used optimally.
Leonidaz Tezapsidis made the statement in his remarks during the opening of the conference on Women’s Leadership and Political Participation yesterday.
“It is clear today that the country’s human resources are not used optimally.
“Women, 50 percent of the population do not play the political role they should.
“The nation as a whole is losing heavily in the process,” the Ambassador said.
He added that the government is committed to the review of the Electoral Act and the Political Parties Integrity Act with the aim to make the overall legislative framework more inclusive, fair and equitable.
“Last week, the Prime Minister announced that the new electoral system should improve the representation of minority groups and women.
“He mentioned Temporary Special Measures as a possible way for improved women’s representation,” he said.
The EU rep also highlighted that a number of leaders of political parties, civil society representatives and senior officials have expressed their willingness to explore the introduction of reserve seats for women, since other “incentives” have not had the expected results so far.
The three days conference that is being held at the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) Conference centre will end tomorrow.
By RONALD TOITO’ONA
