Their primary focus is to address the underrepresentation of women in Vanuatu’s Parliament, Provinces, and Municipal Councils.

This year, they submitted an NGO report to the UN UPR Secretariat, highlighting Vanuatu’s failure to implement recommendations from the 3rd cycle of the UN UPR.

Four determined women leaders from the Coalition attended the UN UPR in Geneva, representing Vanuatu’s civil society, their trip was generously funded by the Australian High Commission in Vanuatu. Despite being placed as NGO Observers rather than part of the official government delegation, the women were resolute in their decision to participate and observe the proceedings.

“This year was extra special as Vanuatu, as a nation and member of the UN, reported on the Human Rights situation of our people,” said Mrs. Jenny Ligo, a prominent Vanuatu human rights activist and Chairwoman of Women Against Crime and Corruption (WACC). “We felt a deep sense of pride and responsibility.”

Attending the high-level meeting allowed the Coalition members to gain invaluable insights into the international human rights advocacy process, they emphasised the importance of thorough preparation and understanding of procedures at both national and international levels.

“Our firsthand experience taught us that countries must prepare well in advance and have a clear consensus on what they want to lobby for at the international level,” Mrs. Ligo remarked. “Action speaks louder than words, and we must demonstrate progress in our reports to get meaningful responses.”

During the meeting, the Coalition observed the strict protocols managed by the UN Secretariat and learned the importance of promptness and adherence to process, they also established crucial international connections for future support.

“We have built international connections that will help us in future advocacy efforts,” Mrs. Ligo said. “Both the government and NGOs must be well-prepared and knowledgeable about the issues we want to address at the UN.”

One of the key issues raised in the previous UN UPR cycle was improving gender equality by increasing women’s participation at provincial, municipal, and parliamentary levels. The Coalition’s report to the UN UPR Secretariat highlighted Vanuatu’s failure to meet this requirement, underscoring the need for urgent action.

“The Coalition has worked tirelessly to compile a brief report and submit it to the UN UPR Secretariat,” Mrs. Ligo said.

“We must hold our government accountable for implementing these critical recommendations.”

The Coalition’s journey to Geneva was made possible through their own efforts to secure funding. They expressed heartfelt gratitude to their supporters, particularly the Australian High Commission in Vanuatu, whose sponsorship was instrumental in their participation.

“We are a group of hard-working volunteers standing up for the rights of women and girls in Vanuatu,” the Vanuatu Human rights woman Activist said.

“We greatly appreciate the support from the Vanuatu Government, the Australian Embassy, and other Pacific UN diplomats. Without AusAID, our mission would not have been possible.”

She quoted a Bible text, saying, ‘Ask and it shall be given to you, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened to you.’ (Matthew 7:7-8)

The Coalition for Gender Equality’s participation in the 4th cycle of the UN UPR marks a historic step forward for women’s advocacy in Vanuatu, demonstrating their commitment to achieving gender equality and improving human rights for all.

SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST