Girls Takeover Parliament [1]
Saturday, October 12, 2019 - 08:08
Climate change dialogue and increased women's representation in Parliament were topics of debate for 27 young women who conducted a mock parliament session as part of a second Girls Takeover Parliament program on October 11.
Held at Parliament House, the young female leaders represented Members of Parliament and presented on matters of urgent priorities for youth and young girls in particular, while other girls took on the roles of the House staff.
They were selected by Tonga Youth Leaders (TYL) in partnership with the Commonwealth Youth Council and Jasiri Australia Initiative, under a program to increase the knowledge of young girls on Tonga’s parliamentary system and decision-making responsibilities.
The program fosters positive attitudes toward leadership roles and careers.
The “Members of Parliament” debated on two important topics taken from their application forms, including a Motion to reserve seats for women in Parliament.
Secondly was a petition to assign a youth officer for each Constituency Office to develop and monitor community climate change awareness and dialogue.
Four days training faciliated by Parliament staff to helped the young women to prepare for their discussions.
Pacific Representative for the Commonwealth Youth Council and Founder of Tonga Youth Leaders, Elizabeth Kite, said this week's training was developing role models for girls across the Pacific region, “because the battle to increase female political representation is one that is unfortunately felt across our seas.”
“You have been honoured a great privilege to be here today, use these great opportunities to always help others. What you've learned this week and today, you must share after today's Parliament session concludes. That is your duty.”
Guest speakers included ‘Ofa Guttenbeil-Likiliki, ‘Alisi Taumoepeau, Netatua Pelesikoti and MEIDECC staff.The program was organized by a planning committee; Jolene Finau, Sana Latu, Neomai Pohiva and Mary Finau supported by Tonga Youth Leaders and staff of the Legislative Assembly.