Tongan Female MPs represents the Legislative Assembly of Tonga at IPU Global Conference of Women Parliamentarians in Mexico

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Hon. 'Ana 'Akau'ola

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Two distinguished female Members of Parliament are representing the Legislative Assembly of Tonga at the IPU Global Conference of Women Parliamentarians, taking place in Mexico City, Mexico, from March 13-16, 2025. This four-day conference, themed “From Mexico to the World: Let’s Mobilize for Gender Parity!”, brings together women parliamentarians from across the globe to collaborate, share ideas, and develop innovative strategies to advance gender equality, women’s rights, and empowerment.

The conference serves as a dynamic platform for women MPs, including those from Tonga, to exchange experiences, learn from one another, and define common goals to promote gender parity in parliaments worldwide. Participants will engage with representatives from diverse parity parliaments, identify persistent challenges in achieving equal representation, and explore effective strategies to ensure women’s voices and power are equally represented.

The agenda features a variety of interactive panels, working group sessions, and discussions on topical issues, all aimed at fostering gender-responsive policy development. The Tongan delegation, including the Hon. Health Minister Dr. ‘Ana ‘Akau’ola and Tongatapu 6 MP Hon. Dulcie Tei, has been encouraged to share examples of best practices in advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment with their international colleagues.

The Tongan MPs departed for Mexico earlier this week to participate in this landmark event, which is jointly organized by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the Senate of Mexico. Their attendance strengthens Tonga’s commitment to promoting gender parity and strengthening women’s leadership in politics and beyond.

This conference marks a significant step forward in the global movement towards gender equality, and the participation of Tonga’s female MPs highlights the nation’s dedication to empowering women and achieving equal representation in decision-making roles.