PHILIPSBURG:--- Prime Minister Silveria Jacobs and her delegation engaged in a series of vital discussions aimed at addressing pressing issues related to women’s rights, ensuring gender equality, and strengthening partnerships for the betterment of St. Maarten.
Prime Minister Jacobs, along with Head of Community Development, Family and Humanitarian Affairs Mrs. Chantal Groeneveldt-George, under whom Women’s Desk falls, and Tatia Brunings, policy advisor in the Staff Bureau of Ministry VSA, met with the Guyana Vulnerable Population Alliance to discuss the critical matter of sex workers' rights and safety. Recognizing the importance of open dialogue on such sensitive topics, Prime Minister Jacobs emphasized the need for comprehensive measures encompassing safety, counseling, and broader support systems to address this often-overlooked issue.
Additionally, Prime Minister Jacobs participated in a discussion on equal participation and leadership for a more peaceful world. As a female Prime Minister, she also highlighted her role in Parliament and reiterated her dedication to empowering women and young girls through legislative initiatives and opportunities for advancement. With an increasing number of females holding key positions of leadership in our community, both in the public and private sectors, St. Maarten is making strides towards greater gender inclusivity and representation.
Furthermore, Prime Minister Jacobs met with the Chief of the UN Disaster Risk Reduction Partnership branch to showcase St. Maarten's Emergency Operating Center and its role in disaster risk reduction efforts. The UN team commended the existing infrastructure and wanted to strengthen collaboration and support for St. Maarten's resilience-building initiatives. Prime Minister Jacobs underscored the importance of partnerships in our continued efforts to enhance our disaster preparedness and response capabilities.
Concluding her visit to the 68th CSW session, Prime Minister Jacobs emphasized the need for continued policy development and collaboration with interested entities. She highlighted St. Maarten's achievements and areas requiring assistance, particularly in climate change and environmental degradation. Discussions with regional counterparts focused on the impact of larger nations' industrial activities on Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and the challenges they face in accessing international funding for recovery and sustainability efforts.
In summary, Prime Minister Jacobs' work visit was marked by productive engagements, networking and information gathering for the critical policy areas for the Ministry of VSA for continued progress to address challenges faced by our families, especially women and girls. Moving forward, the government will continue to pursue partnerships, advocate for marginalized communities, especially some of our most vulnerable single female-led homes, and address pressing challenges to ensure a brighter future for all citizens.
