International Women's Day is observed annually on March 8. This is the day when women around the world are recognised for their achievements in the various areas of life. The occasion generally highlights the struggles and accomplishments of women while at the same time exploring their untapped potential and opportunities.

The Government has signed two major international conventions relating to women: The Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Inter-American Convention on the Prevention, Punishment and Eradication of Violence Against Women - Convention of Belem do Para, indicating the Government's commitment to ensuring women's empowerment and full participation.

Domestic Violence Act

Since 1995, we have in place a Domestic Violence act which provides for the protection of victims of domestic violence. This act was recently amended in 2004, to give wider coverage to persons in visiting relationships. The act also makes provision for an Occupation Order and Protection Order.

The Trafficking in Persons Act was passed in the House of Representa-tives in November 2006. This indicates the Government's intention to tackle the problem of all forms of discrimination and violence against women and girls, and to addressboth internal and cross-border trafficking in persons.

A Draft Sexual Harassment Policy is being developed towards legislation to protect women from the prevalence of sexual harassment in the workplace and the society at large. The Draft National Gender Policy, which is currently in the consultative process, should provide for a national strategy to address gender-based violence. Discussions are taking place at the Joint Select Committee of Parliament regarding the amendments to the Offences Against the Person Act and the Incest (Punishment) Act. This is to ensure that our women and girls receive adequate protection and redress under the law.

This year's international theme, 'Ending Impunity for Violence against Women', is indeed significant as it marks the 12th anniversary of our adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, consistent with our local theme, 'Violence Against Women: It's a Serious Thing, Stop It!'

The Government reaffirms its commit-ment in the fight against gender-based violence. In this regard, the Government will continue to design, implement and monitor gender-sensitive policies, programmes and legislation to facilitate the advancement of women in all spheres of activity across all strata of society.

- Faith Webster (Mrs.)

Acting Executive Director

Bureau of Women's Affairs