The Domestic Violence Decree which came into effect last year is now being effectively implemented by the law enforcement agencies in conjunction with civil society groups. Its regime of restraining orders is intended to deter perpetrators of family violence from inflicting further violence, whilst allowing families to remain together in peace.
Since the reform of Fiji's laws to bring them in line with the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women and the Convention on the Rights of the Child, further progress has been achieved.
What is even more crucial in the Horn of Africa is sustainable development. Our .youth need to have their hope for the future not frustrated; and the condition of our women and children require much greater attention.
Grenada welcomes the formation and launch of UN WOMEN aimed at promoting the rights of women and girls, and equality between the sexes. This is an early success of UN reform.
We must attempt to achieve growth with equity, especially for women and youth, and to support general improvements toward people's advancement. That is, how to create stable environments and opportunities for our people to thrive. And, Mr. President, we must do so while contributing to a just, peaceful, democratic, global framework.
In this endeavor, special emphasis has been placed on the empowerment of women and their participation in all aspects of national endeavor. A well crafted gender policy is enabling Government to address the concerns of women and girls. We consider the creation of the Gender Entity - UN Women to be an important positive development in the UN's effort to promote women's empowerment.
In order for the UN to deliver on all our expectations, its organisational structure must reflect the geopolitical realities of the 21 st century. An effective response to global challenges requires a reformed and dynamic UN. Reform initiatives spanning a number of years, have led to the establishment of UN Women”
In this same spirit, we welcome the establishment of UN Women and its overarching vision of a world in which societies are free of gender-based discrimination, where women and men have equal opportunities, respect and consideration. A more inclusive world where the intellectual and economic potential of women is fully realized will promote Economic Security.
At the beginning of this Session, we witnessed history of another kind unfolding in this Hall. For the first time, a female president stood at this podium to open the General Debate. I join other world leaders in congratulating Her Excellency Ms. Dilma Rousseff of Brazil for her many achievements.
