Tongan Government Won't Change It's Stand On CEDAW Featured
Hon. Fe'ao Vakata
Nuku'aofa, 22 May 2015. Tonga's government says it has not changed its stance on the ratification of a major United Nations convention, despite intensifying opposition.
There have been three petitions, a protest march and a parliamentary resolution asking the government to not ratify the Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women, or CEDAW.
Thousands have expressed concern that it would open the door for same sex marriage and abortion in the country.
But the Minister of Internal Affairs, Fe'ao Vakata, says the government has not changed its position in regards to CEDAW.
He says discussions will continue and there needs to be even more education on the matter.
"I just talked to the CEO and told him that they have to print the Tongan version of the CEDAW in the paper next week and also with some FAQs, (frequently asked questions), of CEDAW because I think a lot of people in Tonga still don't understand what CEDAW is about."
Mr Vakata says the government will listen to people, but it also needs to do what is best for the country.
A big march is organised by all Christian Churches for today's afternoon May 22nd despite government's position on the issue.
Source: Radio New Zealand International
