Kamina Johnson Smith | Rights, Justice, Action: Jamaica reaffirms commitment to women and girls

Jamaica joins the international community in commemorating International Women’s Day, under the theme: ‘Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls’.

The annual observance recognises the global contributions of women everywhere and advocates for their continued equal and meaningful participation in all spheres of society.

We welcome the focus of this year’s theme which reinforces the principles of fairness, equity and non-discrimination under the law. Indeed, this year’s commemoration is a timely opportunity to reiterate Jamaica’s support for the global call for gender equality and for decisive action to dismantle barriers to equal justice and affirm the rights of women and girls everywhere.

The Government of Jamaica has pursued a robust legislative review agenda aimed at strengthening equality, and promoting an inclusive legal framework. This has led to significant gains in the legal, justice, security and military sectors, as well as in business.

As we reflect on the role of women and their contributions, I particularly recognise the strength, leadership, and resilience of women across Jamaica, who continue to uplift their families and communities, including after disasters. Women have been at the forefront of the country’s ongoing recovery efforts after Hurricane Melissa. Our women have been vital partners in rebuilding households, restoring livelihoods, and shaping community responses. The resilience of our country is strengthened when men and women work together.

At the global level, Jamaica continues to play a leading role in advocating for the rights of women and girls, including as state party to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). We are a founding member of the Women Foreign Ministers’ Group, a global initiative aimed at amplifying the voices of women in international policy and governance, and we are also a member of the Group of Friends on Women, Peace and Security (WPS).

As we commemorate International Women’s Day, it is significant that Jamaica is advancing efforts to develop its Women, Peace and Security National Action Plan. This initiative will institutionalise a gender-responsive approach across the security sector. Indeed, our women are central to conflict prevention, citizen security, and the pathway to lasting peace for all Jamaicans.

As Jamaica’s first female Foreign Minister, I am especially proud of the women of the Jamaican Foreign Service who continue to distinguish themselves at the international level. Their valuable work ensures that Jamaica’s foreign policy pursuits contribute meaningfully to national development.

On this International Women’s Day, I salute our women as you continue to shape our nation and impact the world.

Happy International Women’s Day!

- Senator Kamina Johnson Smith is Jamaica’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade. Email feedback to columns@gleanerjm.com