Hon. Isalean Phillip, the Minister for Social Development and Gender Affairs in St. Kitts and Nevis, represented Latin America and the Caribbean at CSW69. She highlighted the significance of women’s leadership, stated a 33% female representation in government, and discussed priorities for promoting gender equality, especially regarding ageing populations. The roundtable included ministers from various countries and focused on recommitting to gender equality and implementing the Beijing Platform for Action.
The Honourable Senator Isalean Phillip, who serves as the Minister with responsibility for Social Development and Gender Affairs in St. Kitts and Nevis, represented the Group of Latin American and Caribbean States during the Ministerial Roundtable at the Sixty-ninth Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) on March 12, 2025, in New York City. The roundtable focused on national mechanisms for gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, emphasizing the importance of recommitting resources and accelerating the implementation of the Beijing Platform for Action to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In her presentation, Minister Phillip expressed pride in her country’s efforts, stating, “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 noted that St. Kitts and Nevis has achieved a female representation of 33 percent in both the Cabinet and legislature, which she highlighted as significant progress.
Addressing the question of necessary shifts to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment in the context of an ageing population, Minister Phillip pointed out several priorities. She stressed the need to enhance health outcomes for senior men, who often avoid seeking healthcare despite their chronic conditions, stating, “We have to take steps to improve the health outcomes of senior men, who are often least likely to seek out health care…” Furthermore, she urged the necessity of educating older adults on estate planning to prevent financial exploitation.
Additionally, Minister Phillip advocated for increased public awareness of elder abuse as a form of domestic violence. She emphasized the importance of reinforcing laws and penalties against relatives and caregivers who perpetrate such abuse, indicating that such enforcement acts as a deterrent. The panel included not only Minister Phillip but also representatives from South Africa, Estonia, Belgium, and the People’s Republic of China. CSW69 continues from March 10-21, 2025, featuring participation from over 7 Heads of State and 108 Ministers to discuss pressing issues concerning gender equality and women’s rights.
The participation of Honourable Senator Isalean Phillip at the CSW69 underscores St. Kitts and Nevis’ commitment to enhancing gender equality and women’s empowerment. By taking strategic steps to increase female representation in leadership, address health issues among seniors, and combat elder abuse, the Minister reiterates the importance of proactive measures in achieving sustainable development. The involvement of various global representatives in such discussions signifies a collective effort towards addressing critical gender issues.
Original Source: www.thestkittsnevisobserver.com
