UNC calls on women to lead

Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar wants more women to take up leadership roles in TT as the country seeks to stabilise the economy amid the covid19 pandemic.

In a message, on Monday, to commemorate International Women’s Day (IWD) 2021, the opposition commended women for their efforts in the fight against the spread of the virus and for being at the forefront of scientific research and the development of vaccines.

“As we go forward in seeking to renew and rebuild, greater citizen involvement is required, and in particular, greater participation by women in the decision-making process. We need more women rising to the challenge and taking up leadership roles in their communities, in the boardrooms, and Parliament.

“I issue a call today to girls and women across our beautiful twin-island nation to step up and claim your space. Continue to break barriers, continue to shatter the glass ceiling, and continue to stand proud in all your achievements.”

Persad-Bissessar said restrictions brought on by the virus have directly affected the livelihood of many women in TT who have not only experienced joblessness but are also at higher risk of domestic violence linked to increased stress and tension at home.

Recently, gender-based violence had grown into a bigger issue in TT and women no longer felt safe, said Persad-Bissessar, and more must be done to give women a fighting chance.

“We recently learned that despite public pressure to make non-lethal weapons available, and a promise by the government to enact the necessary legislation, there is still no word on when this will be done.”

IWD 2021 recognises and celebrates the efforts of women and girls around the world in shaping a more equal future and recovery from covid19 with the theme Women in leadership: Achieving an equal future in a covid19 world.