A call for action in Tonga marked International Women’s Day 2026 with the launch of two major national policies aimed at reshaping the future for women and the young people of all genders.

Held under the global theme “Rights, Justice, Action – For All Women and Girls,” the event brought together government leaders, development partners, and community groups in a united push toward equality and inclusion. At the heart of the celebration was the unveiling of the Tonga National Youth Policy & Strategic Plan of Action 2026–2030 and the Women’s Empowerment and Gender Equality Tonga III Policy & Strategic Action Plan 2026–2030—two frameworks described as both a milestone and a starting point for deeper transformation.

The keynote speaker, the Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua, framed the moment as the culmination of years of collective effort, grounded in the voices of ordinary Tongans.

“Real change is the result of generations of effort, shaped by the voices, lived experiences, and leadership of our communities, women, and youth,” he said. “These policies are the harvest of seeds long sown, watered, and tended.”

He emphasized that the policies were built through extensive public consultation, with citizens across the country contributing their perspectives through surveys, community discussions, and direct engagement. Their input, he said, has helped lay the foundation for a more inclusive and resilient Tonga—one where women can lead and young people can thrive with dignity and equality.

Minister of Internal Affairs Fane Fotu Fituafe described the launch as a milestone not only for the ministry but for the nation as a whole. She noted that the new strategies succeed earlier frameworks and were shaped by a nationwide consultation process in 2025 that reached all 17 constituencies.

“These two policies are our response to that call,” she said. “This is not the end of the journey—it is only the beginning. Let us move forward together with purpose, courage, and a shared commitment to lasting change.”

Regional and international partners echoed the significance of the moment, stressing that gender equality and youth empowerment are essential to national development.

Ms. Mereseini Rakuita of the Pacific Community highlighted that the effort goes beyond policy documents, touching the very fabric of Pacific societies.

“This is not about changing who we are as Pacific people,” she said. “If anything, it is about returning to the values we have always held—and ensuring they are reflected in how our societies function today.”

Acting Australian High Commissioner, Alison Gow, described the launch as a strong demonstration of leadership, noting that gender equality and youth empowerment are “whole-of-society issues” critical to long-term wellbeing and prosperity.

Sobering statistics

UN Resident Coordinator, Dirk Wagener, underscored both the urgency and opportunity facing Tonga and the wider Pacific.

He pointed out that women’s political representation in the region remains among the lowest globally—averaging just 6 to 7 percent, and only 4 percent in Tonga, with a single female Member of Parliament. Gender-based violence, he added, affects two out of three women in the Pacific—double the global average—while youth unemployment remains significantly higher than adult rates.

“These policies provide very clear direction and a strong foundation,” he said. “They translate the theme of International Women’s Day into practice.”

Despite the challenges, Wagener emphasized Tonga’s potential to lead, noting its young population—56 percent under the age of 24—as a powerful driver for change. He called for sustained investment in education, health, employment, and inclusive decision-making, particularly for women, youth, and persons with disabilities.

“Tonga has the opportunity to close the gender gap faster and become a Pacific and global champion,” he said.

The United Nations, he added, remains committed to supporting Tonga through programs focused on gender equality, youth participation, and the prevention of gender-based violence.

The launch event at the Queen Salote Memorial Hall also featured exhibitions from community groups working directly with women and youth, reinforcing the message that real change will depend on action at every level—from policy to grassroots.

The message from all speakers was clear: while the policies mark a significant step forward, their true success will depend on sustained commitment, collaboration, and implementation.