We need women’s representation that reflects all women and girls in all their diversity and abilities, and across all cultural, social, economic, and political situations.
Minister for Ministry of Women Youth Children and Family Affairs Freda Rotutafi Rangirei made this profound statement when she delivered her official speech to mark International Women’s Day (IWD) 2021 in Honiara.
This year, the theme for International Women’s Day (8 March), “Women in leadership: Achieving an equal future in a COVID-19 world,” celebrates the tremendous efforts by women and girls around the world in shaping a more equal future and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and highlights the gaps that remain.
“There is no denying the devastating impact of COVID-19 on our economy, health systems, other services, and particularly on our people’s welfare.”
She added, that the theme brings the strong message of how during this pandemic it is critical to pay special attention to how COVID-19 most vulnerable and marginalized in our communities.
Especially our women and girls, people with disabilities, women in rural and remote areas, and older women, she added.
The minister further added, that one of the most obvious challenging impacts is the economic strain and pressures on all including the government but particularly.
“The pandemic has changed the daily routines of families with more additional pressures and burdens for income-generating activities which for us will also raise the concern around child labour,” she added.
She also stated that another terrifying impact is also the increased global trend of violence faced by women and girls during this pandemic in light of the economic hardships.
Therefore, the minister said this year’s IWD theme calls for equitable actions, affirmative action, and special measures that ensure that women’s representation and participation.
Women’s voices and experiences need to be made integral to all ALL COVID-19 response and recovery initiatives, procedures, and processes.
Rangirei said this is very critical to meet the aim of an equal future in the context of recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
By ANDREW FANASIA
Newsroom Honiara
