Women’s health and safety, ocean health, take fore at CHOGM 2024

On Thursday, the fourth day of the six-day Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2024, female leaders from the Commonwealth convened to promote the health and welfare of women and girls. Among the notable attendees were the Prime Minister of Samoa, Hon Fiamē Naomi Mataʻafa; the Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC; and Her Majesty The Queen.

In Scotland’s address, she stated, “Abuse can be prevented and ultimately eliminated, but only if we work together until that task is completed. That is our commitment to each other, to the Commonwealth and to the generations to come. Together, we can build a future where every woman and girl is free from the threat of violence, and where every woman has access to the healthcare she needs to prevent and survive cervical cancer.”

Additionally, member nations convened to deliberate on the Commonwealth Ocean Declaration, which is anticipated to be ratified soon. This declaration seeks to enhance funding for ocean health. Concurrently, youth representatives engaged in discussions with government leaders and senior officials during an intergenerational dialogue, highlighting key issues such as climate change, education, and health on behalf of the Commonwealth’s 1.5 billion young individuals.

Throughout the day, the Prime Minister of Samoa presided over the Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers Meeting, addressing common challenges and opportunities while charting a path for the future. The day’s events concluded with a formal banquet to honor heads of state and dignitaries in anticipation of the official Opening Ceremony.