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Soroptimist International has come in for high praise from Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, Cynthia Forde, for its advocacy on behalf of women and children. 

Speaking this morning at the opening of the 25th Biennial Regional Conference of the Soroptimist International Caribbean Network at Radisson Aquatica Resort, Minister Forde noted that issues such as poverty, domestic violence, crime, lack of economic empowerment, structural inequalities and HIV still remained threats to many women and girls.

The advent of the technological age, climate change and successive economic crises, she said, had brought with them new and emerging issues which, if not properly addressed, could reverse gains.

“Too many families are being negatively impacted by these new issues…when families are broken, communities flounder and the entire society suffers,” she maintained.

She submitted that with the current levels of crime and the urgent social response required, women had a pivotal role to play in households and in ensuring the society’s peaceful existence.

Acknowledging the commendable work of the Soroptimist organization in assisting families and households, the Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs recognized the NGO (Non-Governmental Organizations) movement as a key stakeholder in the Ministry’s mission to ensure that “no one is left behind”.            

She congratulated the Caribbean body on achieving 25 years and for its ability to bring together women from across the entire region, despite their diversities.

joy.springer@barbados.gov.bb

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