©️MCFDF
Pétion-Ville, December 4, 2025.- The Ministère à la Condition Feminine et aux Droits des Femmes (MCFDF), led by Madame Pedrica Saint Jean, organized this Thursday, December 4, at Hotel Montana les Assises départementales Ouest 1, on the theme: « Pa gen demokrasi ni Eleksyon San Fanm : Zewo Vyolans ». The event aimed to raise awareness and mobilize the actors of the department on women's political participation and electoral violence, bringing together representatives of the government, the National Police of Haiti (PNH), the UN, civil society and political parties to share experiences, obstacles and concrete solutions.
The day began with the speeches of Minister Pedrica Saint John, who recalled that « Pa gen demokrasi san fanm »stressing that the democratic reconstruction of the country cannot be achieved without the active participation of women. Marie Goretti Ndwayo, UN Women representative, welcomed « the resilience of Haitian women despite intimidation ». Yves Marie Édouard, electoral adviser, stressed the importance of« increased female presence », while the Delegate Minister for Electoral and Constitutional Affairs, Joseph André Gracien Jean, stressed that « security is essential for free participation ».
The panels highlighted concrete realities: Marie Carline Laurenceau, Director of the Bureau for Combating Violence against Women and Girls (BCLVFF), stressed the monitoring of violence; Viona Guerrier, Director of the Directorate of Gender Promotion and Action (DPAG), described threats and intimidation; Jérusha Vastie Michel outlined the basis for political participation; and Mr. Mosler Georges proposed reform options. The Declaration and Commitment was signed by all participants.
These foundations are a key step for the inclusion of women in political life and prepare the ground for the other departments, as well as for the General States, scheduled for 12-14 December in Les Cayes. As the Minister Saint John recalled: « Every word spoken here must be worn like a stone to the national building ». Despite the obstacles, Haitian women continue to impose and make their voice heard for a democratic future.
R.J.
