This joint by ARROW and the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement (FWRM) was delivered at the High-Level Interactive Dialogue on Participation, Accountability and Gender Responsive Institutions by Nalini Singh, Executive Director of FWRM. It was broadcasted at the 69th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women. Click here to watch the statement.
Bula vinaka. Today, I speak on behalf of the Asian Pacific Research and Resource Centre for Women (ARROW) and the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement (FWRM).
Ensuring inclusive participation, accountability, and gender-responsive institutions is essential for achieving social justice and sustainable development.
Meaningful participation requires the active involvement of women, youth, marginalized groups, and gender-diverse individuals in decision-making processes at all levels. When diverse voices and intersectionalities are included, policies and programs become more reflective of the needs of all members of society, leading to equitable outcomes.
Robust accountability mechanisms must be in place to ensure that governments, and institutions uphold commitments to gender equality. This includes transparent governance, legal frameworks protecting rights, and mechanisms for addressing gender-based discrimination and violence. Strengthening accountability fosters trust and ensures that policies translate into real change for those most affected by inequality.
Gender-responsive institutions are key to dismantling systemic barriers and advancing equal opportunities. These institutions integrate gender perspectives into laws, policies, and programs, ensuring fair resource distribution and representation. They promote workplace equality, access to services including sexual and reproductive health and rights, and protection from discrimination. Investing in gender-responsive governance creates a foundation for sustainable progress, as inclusive societies are more resilient and innovative.
Gender responsive budgeting and meaningful and sustained inclusion of women and young people in decision-making including planning, implementation and monitoring processes including – the Commission on the Status of Women negotiations and processes. In climate decision-making – this leads to gender responsive policies and better outcomes for women and girls who are disproportionately impacted by the climate crisis.
By prioritizing participation, accountability, and gender-responsive institutions, we move closer to a world where all individuals, especially women and girls have the power, resources, and opportunities to lead dignified and empowered lives.
