Commonwealth _ Day Two of the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s Inaugural Ministerial Forum on Gender Equality and Empowerment brought together government officials, regional delegates, and advocates from Caribbean Member States. Held at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown, the event was a platform for sharing experiences, examining issues related to gender equality, and discussing policy development aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The forum emphasized the commitment of the region to address gender disparities and promote empowerment, marking a significant step towards achieving gender equality in the Caribbean. Key figures, such as Minister Dr. Vindhya Persaud, underscored the critical role of families in this journey.
Dr. Persaud highlighted the pivotal role of families in the process of achieving gender equality, stating, “I believe it starts with families in the messaging we provide in our homes, how children are raised, and the change in messaging that depends on the education and information available to the current generation.” She emphasized that shaping the mindset of the younger generation begins at home and is influenced by the information and education provided. Guyana, under Dr. Persaud’s leadership, expressed its strong commitment to developing a comprehensive gender and inclusion policy that will guide the government’s actions for the next five to ten years. This forward-thinking policy will address contemporary challenges and include areas that have previously been overlooked, reflecting the government’s dedication to fostering gender equality and empowerment.
The Inaugural Ministerial Forum’s second day was marked by fruitful presentations and in-depth discussions on various aspects of gender equality, with a focus on how regional collaboration can be a driving force in achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. The event served as a dynamic platform for exchanging ideas, sharing best practices, and building networks to advance the cause of gender equality. Throughout the forum, several themes emerged, highlighting the multifaceted approach needed to address gender disparities effectively. Some of these key themes included:
Dr. Persaud’s remarks underscored the importance of education and information in promoting gender equality. Governments, organizations, and communities need to provide access to accurate and empowering information to enable individuals to challenge stereotypes and biases. Women’s empowerment emerged as a central theme, emphasizing the need for policies and initiatives that enable women to participate fully in economic, political, and social spheres. This empowerment can help break down barriers and create a more equitable society. Dr. Persaud’s insight into the role of families in promoting gender equality highlighted the need for comprehensive family policies that promote gender-sensitive parenting and create a supportive environment for all family members.
The forum showcased the power of regional collaboration, with Caribbean Member States coming together to share experiences, challenges, and solutions. Collaboration can lead to more effective policies and practices for achieving gender equality. The commitment of Guyana to develop a comprehensive gender and inclusion policy serves as an inspiring example for other nations. Effective policy development is essential for addressing contemporary challenges and ensuring that no aspect of gender equality is left unaddressed.
The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s Inaugural Ministerial Forum on Gender Equality and Empowerment in the Caribbean is making significant strides in promoting gender equality. The event has provided a platform for fruitful discussions, highlighting the importance of education, women’s empowerment, family support, regional collaboration, and comprehensive policy development in achieving this critical goal. As the forum continues, it is expected to generate new ideas, foster partnerships, and inspire further action in the pursuit of gender equality in the Caribbean region.
