APIA: As part of the Increased Political Participation of Women in Samoa (IPPWS), UN Women and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the Centre for Samoan Studies (CSS), have sponsored four roundtable discussions on Women i
The aim of the roundtables is to inform voters regarding the candidates and the electoral process. The first show, with women candidates, will be aired on TV3 at 8:30pm tonight, and also next Sunday, February 28.
Leasiolagi Dr. Meleisea Malama Meleisea, Director of CSS, facilitated the discussion between the four panel guests: Fiso Evelini Taupa'u Fa'amoe, Aiolupotea Ta'atiti Visekota Peteru, Pulemagafa Toleafoa Ulugia Mara Coffin Hunter and Her Highness Masiofo Filifilia Tamasese.
Speaking with Leasiolagi, he said: “Encouraging more women in Parliament is a very important issue for the Centre for Samoan Studies to be involved in. Roundtables help foster a culture of dialogue and debate, they are an educational opportunity for the voters, for them to be able to make more informed decisions.”
“During the roundtable – he added - we tried to address the specific issue of women’s representation in a way that might be beneficial for people to vote for women.”
UN Women’s Country Programme Coordinator, Suisala Mele Maualaivao, declared: “IPPWS utilised a variety of Media to inform the public about the constitutional amendment and the elections but more than just inform, we hope these roundtables will inspire registered voters to participate and own their decision.”
Upcoming panel debates will be focused on the following topics: Media analysis of Political landscape, Youth and the Elections and a Post- elections analysis.
The Increased Political Participation of Women in Samoa (IPPWS), a joint programme between UN Women and UNDP, in partnership with the Government of Samoa and the Australian Government, aims to increase community awareness, strengthen women’s political leadership and work with political parties to raise awareness on gender issues.
Media enquiries should be directed to: Francesca Mondello, UN Communication Specialist, United Nations Resident Coordinator Office - Phone: +685 23670 ext 66 - Email: francesca.mondello@one.un.org