BY MAVIS N PODOKOLO
A recently launched project focusing on gender responsive on peacebuilding and extractive industries in Isabel province will increase access to women’s services and contribute to a physically safer environment.
This was according to Dr Jennifer Butler, Director, and UNFPA Pacific who revealed this during the launch of the project virtually.
“The programme will increase access to women’s services and contribute to a physically safer environment, key factors which will mitigate the risk of harm to women and young women. Raising awareness of the need for services and infrastructure which are women centred and provide women with an environment in which they are able to exercise their rights, including the right to participation, is another key part of this programme,” Butler said.
She said this project will also connecting women together through the eco peacebuilding groups will empower women together to seek redress and continue to build and sustain their role in peacebuilding after the project end.
Butler stressed it (project) aligns well with the Solomon Island National Peace Policy and National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security. Further, it aligns with the National Gender Equality and Women’s Development (GEWD) policy which aims to achieve gender equality and human rights in Solomon Islands.
He said in addition, the project objective also aligns with the Solomon Islands National Policy to Eliminate Violence Against Women and Girls. This outlines five policy priority outcomes pertaining to eliminating violence against women and girls. Specifically, outcome three strives to ensure victims and survivors have better access to medical, legal and protective services.
“We are thrilled to launch this project and thank you all greatly for your time,” Butler said.
On the same note Mr. Pär Liljert, International Organisation for Migration (IOM) Chief of Mission & Coordinator for the Pacific said regarding service provision, the programme will address needs to increase services that are provided on issues of gender-based violence (GBV), Sexual and Reproductive Health (SHR), safety, PSS and Justice Services to remote and isolated areas.
Liljert said currently, in the Isabel province, only one civil society organisation is able to provide gender-based violence and justice support. This programme will directly increase the availability of these services.
