BY JOY OFASIA
FOR the first time, women peacebuilders from across the Pacific are gathering in Honiara from May 26 to 30 for a historic meeting of the Pacific Women Mediators Network.
As the meeting continues, the women remain united in one goal: to ensure their voices lead the way toward a peaceful and equal Pacific future.
Under the theme “Weaving Together Peacebuilding and Mediation Capacities Across Our Ocean of Peace,” the event brings together women leaders working at the intersection of peacebuilding, gender equality, and climate action.
“This is more than just a meeting,” said Mereana Vave, a mediator from Fiji. “It’s a moment of recognition for Pacific women who have long been at the heart of peace efforts, even if our work often goes unseen.”
The gathering highlights the important role women play in resolving conflicts and building peaceful communities. It also looks at how feminist approaches can help make peace processes more inclusive and sustainable.
Participants will share personal stories of peacebuilding in their communities, discuss the unique challenges women face, and draft a statement to present to the Pacific Islands Forum.
“We want leaders to know that women are not just victims of conflict—they are agents of change,” said Lydia Ma’asi, a youth peace advocate from Tonga.
The Pacific Women Mediators Network, launched in June 2023, brings together women working on climate and security issues. It aims to strengthen their role in shaping peace, particularly as the region prepares to mark the 25th anniversary of UN Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security.
“This is about changing the narrative,” said Terina Ta’ala, a Samoan facilitator. “We’re not asking for a seat at the table—we’re building our own.”
