Hon. Isalean Phillip of St. Kitts and Nevis joined a Ministerial Roundtable at CSW69 focusing on gender equality and women’s empowerment. She emphasized women’s leadership representation, health initiatives for seniors, and the fight against elder abuse. The event gathered numerous global leaders to confront challenges impacting women.
The Honourable Senator Isalean Phillip represented St. Kitts and Nevis at the Ministerial Roundtable during the Sixty-ninth Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) held at the United Nations in New York City on March 12, 2025. As the ministerial representative for the Group of Latin American and Caribbean States, she contributed to discussions on national mechanisms for gender equality and women’s empowerment, aligned with the Beijing Platform for Action and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In her address, Minister Phillip underscored the proactive measures taken in St. Kitts and Nevis to place qualified women in leadership positions. She noted, “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.”
Minister Phillip further highlighted the significant representation of women in government, stating that the percentage of women in the Cabinet and legislature has risen to 33 percent. She elaborated on the essential shifts required to promote gender equality, particularly in the context of an ageing population, emphasizing the need for better health outcomes for senior men and increased awareness about estate planning to prevent financial exploitation.
Addressing the issue of elder abuse, Minister Phillip called for an enhanced public understanding of its prevalence and necessity for stringent law enforcement against abusers. This plea aligns with her broader commitment to advancing women’s rights and gender equity. The panel of CSW69 also included Ministers from South Africa, Estonia, Belgium, and the People’s Republic of China.
CSW69 continues from March 10 to 21, 2025, convening over 7 Heads of States, 108 Ministers, and numerous high-level representatives to tackle pressing issues concerning women and gender equality.
The recent participation of Honourable Senator Isalean Phillip at the CSW69 highlights the commitment of St. Kitts and Nevis to women’s empowerment and gender equality. Through her statements, she illustrated the importance of leadership representation, health outcomes for seniors, and combating elder abuse. The discussions within this international forum reflect a global challenge and the necessity for collaborative efforts in achieving gender equity and fulfilling the Sustainable Development Goals.
Original Source: www.thestkittsnevisobserver.com
