Majuro, Republic of the Marshall Islands - The Micronesian Legal Services Corporation (MLSC), in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Pacific Office, continues to lead efforts to combat gender-based violence (GBV) in the North Pacific.

A recent workshop in Majuro focused on raising community awareness as a key step in preventing and reducing GBV, this work part of a broader regional initiative, built on previous sessions held in Koror, Palau, and the Federated States of Micronesia (Chuuk and Pohnpei). By bringing together civil society organizations, youth leaders, local authorities, government agencies, and legal professionals, it underscored the power of collective action and the necessity of a multi-sectoral approach in addressing GBV.

In her opening remarks, Senator Daisy Alik-Momotaro, Special Presidential Envoy for Women’s and Children’s Affairs in the Republic of the Marshall Islands, emphasized the critical role of gender equality in achieving sustainable development.

"Gender equality is not just a goal but a fundamental prerequisite for sustainable development. Through these workshops, we are not only raising awareness but equipping communities with the tools to create safer, more equitable societies for all,” she said.

Tojien Jorkan, Prevention Worker from Women United Together Marshall Islands, noted the growing prevalence of GBV and domestic violence, stressing the importance of proactive community engagement.

“GBV and domestic violence continue to rise, making community awareness a crucial first step in preventing, reducing, and eliminating violence,” Jorkan said.

The workshop centered on empowering communities to take an active role in preventing and responding to GBV. Participants were introduced to key concepts, including the significance of gender equality, harmful gender stereotyping, and understanding the legal and support mechanisms available for survivors. Through interactive discussions and activities, attendees shared their experiences and explored practical, locally relevant solutions.

The workshop featured active participation from Mayors and their representatives from various localities, each contributing a rich blend of wisdom, experience, and cultural knowledge unique to their communities. Their engagement underscored the crucial role of local leadership in tackling GBV. The discussions were not only informative but also deeply collaborative, with facilitators and participants exchanging valuable insights in a mutual learning process. Facilitating the workshop were Rosania A. Bennett, RMI MLSC Directing Attorney; Danally Daniel, Pohnpei MLSC Directing Attorney; Sunny Beero, RMI MLSC Staff Attorney; Wagner Joash, RMI MLSC Trial Counselor; Tamara Andrike and Donna Ishoda, RMI MLSC Legal Secretaries; and Sonali Owen, MLSC-UNDP Consultant.

Gender-based violence remains a critical issue across the Pacific, where many communities face unique cultural, geographical, and economic challenges. In the Pacific, two in every three women have experienced physical or sexual violence at least once in their lifetime. These workshops aim to tackle these challenges by providing targeted education and fostering a space for dialogue and collaboration.

Recognizing the importance of local partnerships, the MLSC and UNDP have ensured the workshops are culturally sensitive and tailored to the specific needs of each community. This collaboration is a key driver of sustainable change across the region.

Looking ahead, MLSC and UNDP will continue to expand the initiative, with additional workshops planned in Palau, FSM and the RMI. These follow-up sessions will further the dialogue on gender-based violence, focusing on practical interventions and strengthening the capacity of local organizations to provide ongoing support.

For more information please contact:

Leandra Flor | Communications Specialist, UNDP Pacific Office in the FSM | leandra.flor@undp.org