THE Solomon Islands Government continues to advocate for global recognition and action on gender-sensitive development strategies to combat climate vulnerability.
Speaking at a panel discussion on Gender, Climate, and Security at the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) currently underway in New York, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of National Planning and Development Coordination (MNPDC) Dr. Melchior Mataki said disasters impact various sectors of society differently, with women and children often being the most vulnerable.
Drawing on from the 2014 flash floods in Honiara and Guadalcanal, Dr Mataki told the panel that of the 22 lives lost, 90% of the victims were women and children.
“This highlights the increased vulnerability of these groups to both hydrometeorological events and geological hazards.”
Dr Mataki emphasized the need to address these vulnerabilities.
“Understanding vulnerability at the community level is essential. We must examine what people are facing and dealing with to develop effective strategies,” Dr. Mataki stated.
“In the Solomon Islands, we have integrated the Sustainable Development Goals into our National Development Strategy. This approach aims to address inequalities, including gender inequalities through a development perspective.”
He highlighted the importance of a holistic approach to security challenges, whether traditional or arising from disasters and climate change.
“Our key defence against security challenges is rooted in addressing development inequalities. It is crucial that the United Nations and our partners take a deeper look into these issues and addresses them accordingly,” he added.
Dr Mataki adds, the Solomon Islands’ commitment to embedding the Sustainable Development Goals into its national strategy underscores its proactive stance in promoting gender-sensitive and inclusive development.
