Young women and children

Youth aged 15−24 years account for nearly two million people, about a fifth of the Pacific regions’ total population (2011), yet many are still being disregarded due to the priority of gender roles. In light of this, there is now growing recognition of female potential and an effort to nurture and expand the minds of young women as leaders in the region.

Many young women do not have access to information or knowledge on the resources available; this is often due to the above-expressed gender roles and stigma. Despite a hopeful future, women and girls continue to be at elevated risk of violence, abuse and discrimination. There is an increasingly high rate of teenage pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and HIV infection amongst those experiencing gender-based violence. Eliminating violence against women in society works to remove power dynamics between the sexes and establish equality, security, liberty, integrity and dignity of all human beings.

FemLINKpacific continues to support the participation and engagement of our Young Women’s Leadership Team in impactful initiatives such as the Pacific Young Women’s Leadership Alliance and the Fiji Young Women’s Forum.

Women and girls with disabilities

Throughout the Pacific region, in both urban and rural communities, those with disabilities face multiple, intersecting and compounding forms of discrimination due to their impairment and their gender identity. Most Pacific Island countries have ratified one or two relevant conventions distinguishing the need for integration and inclusion of women and girls with disabilities in all aspects of society, although, these efforts seem minimal.

The challenge to fully integrate into societies has not yet been met. Persons with disabilities are often excluded access to education, state-assistance programs, social protection service, and employment- leading to lower socioeconomic status, and are only constituted limited human rights. This subjects them to an extreme risk for violence and injustice. Furthermore, preparation and aid during natural disasters often does not consider the needs of those with varying-ability within the community, especially in rural areas.

Incorporating advocacy for attitudinal and behaviour change towards persons with disabilities- and most importantly, permitting accessibility and equal opportunity to those with impairments, perceived or not, allows to work towards creating an inclusive society.

the media

Broadcast media communications can be a powerful force for positive social change. By creating local alternatives to mainstream broadcasting, FemLINKpacific is able to build a collaborative practice that raises social awareness and provides a platform for others to express their views in matters typically repressed. Outlets such as radio, TV, and social media can also stimulate open conversation among communities and on topics surrounding policy-making.

As identified in Section J of the Beijing Platform for Action, a feminist media approach can contribute to strengthening national and regional networks of civil society groups. The history of FemLINK demonstrates the embodiment of a space where under-represented communities have the tools to spread their message to a larger audience.

Our actions are made possible by engaged media professionals who excite women’s participation in news through their enhanced professional ethics that bridge integral gender equality concerns.