National

Roadmap Endorsed to Fast-Track Gender Equality

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The 13th Commonwealth Women’s Affairs Ministers Meeting is officially in the history books and it is being dubbed as rewarding.

Published

8 months ago

August 24, 2023

Megan Shepherd

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The 13th Commonwealth Women’s Affairs Ministers Meeting is officially in the history books and it is being dubbed as rewarding.

Fifty-six member states have agreed on a road map that will shape the development and advancement of women in the commonwealth. Topping the agenda for The Bahamas, making a greater impact for women with disabilities and women in trade.

Three days of high-level discussions and action planning coming to an end with a plan that highlights and addresses the major issues impacting women and girls in the commonwealth.

Secretary General of the Commonwealth Secretariat Patricia Scotland, noting that ministers looked at building gender-sensitive policies, women in leadership and much more.

Minister of Social Services Obie Wilchcombe highlighting some of the key takeaways that he is hoping will be implemented right here in The Bahamas.

He notes that over 1.3 billion people, or 16 percent of the global population, experiences a significant disability.

And not only are women and girls disproportionally impacted, they also face multiple barriers that may result in lower economic and social statuses, and increased risk of gender-based violence.

Ministers also acknowledged the challenges faced by women-owned small and medium-sized businesses.