Hon. Isalean Phillip represented Latin American and Caribbean States at the CSW69 Ministerial Roundtable, discussing gender equality and women’s empowerment. The roundtable focused on recommitting to the Beijing Platform for Action and achieving SDGs. Key points included enhancing women’s leadership and addressing elder health issues.
The Honourable Senator Isalean Phillip, Minister for Social Development and Gender Affairs in St. Kitts and Nevis, represented the Latin American and Caribbean States at the March 12, 2025, Ministerial Roundtable during the Sixty-ninth Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) at the UN Headquarters in New York.
The roundtable centered on “National mechanisms for gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls,” aiming to recommit to and accelerate the implementation of the Beijing Platform for Action alongside achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In her remarks, Minister Phillip stated, “In St. Kitts and Nevis, we have taken deliberate and intentional steps to identify and appoint experienced and competent women into leadership roles at the highest levels.”
She pointed out that the country has seen a significant rise in female representation in government, now at 33 percent in both the Cabinet and legislature. This highlights ongoing efforts to enhance gender equality at leadership levels.
Addressing the issues surrounding population aging, Minister Phillip stressed the importance of improving health outcomes for older men, who often neglect seeking healthcare despite facing health issues. She advocated for educating seniors on estate planning to prevent financial abuse.
Additionally, she stated, “Expanding public understanding and awareness of elder abuse as a common form of domestic violence is needed,” along with stricter enforcement of laws against such abuses.
The panel discussion also featured ministers from South Africa, Estonia, Belgium, and China. CSW69, running from March 10 to 21, 2025, is set to gather numerous leaders and high-level representatives to tackle pressing issues regarding women’s rights and gender equality.
In summary, Minister Isalean Phillip’s participation in the CSW69 highlights St. Kitts and Nevis’ commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment. Key discussions emphasized increasing women’s leadership, addressing elder health issues, and combating elder abuse. The collaborative efforts from various nations showcase a unified approach towards achieving significant gender equality milestones as outlined in the Beijing Platform for Action and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Original Source: www.thestkittsnevisobserver.com
