A joint effort towards the advancement of gender equality across the Caribbean region is continuing with an assembly in Barbados this week.

Tinée Furbert, the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, is taking part today and tomorrow in the 46th Meeting of the Council for Human and Social Development — Gender in Bridgetown.

She said: “This pivotal meeting aims to review and finalise the Draft Caricom Gender Equality Strategy, a significant milestone achieved with the invaluable support of the Caribbean Regional Spotlight Initiative, facilitated through recipient United Nations organisations such as UN Women and UNDP [the United Nations Development Programme].

“This strategy has undergone regional consultations and validation processes, marking a collective effort towards fostering gender equality across the Caribbean."

Ms Furbert added: “The focal point of the meeting is the launch and discussion surrounding implementing and monitoring the Caricom Gender Equality Strategy.

“It will address essential topics, including the outcomes and accomplishments of the Caribbean Regional Spotlight Initiative.

“Member states will report to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, shed light on the economic cost of violence, as well as the impact of the rising cost of living on female-headed households in the Caribbean, among other pressing issues on the regional agenda.”

The Spotlight Initiative is a global campaign to eliminate violence against women and girls and in the Caribbean it places a focus on family violence.

Ms Furbert said: “I look forward to the regional collaboration and collective action to advancing gender equality.

“Collaboration in finalising the Caricom Gender Equality Strategy signifies a momentous step forward.

“Our collective efforts will pave the way for creating a future where all individuals, regardless of gender, have opportunities to thrive.”