Bahamas News
The Bahamas Prepares for Upcoming UN CEDAW Convention
#Nassau, June 26, 2018 – Bahamas – The Bahamas, through the Department of Gender and Family Affairs of the Ministry of Social Services a
nd Urban Development, is diligently preparing to ensure proper representation at the upcoming United Nations CEDAW (Committee on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination against Women) Convention, which takes place October 22 to November 9, 2018.
Social Services and Urban Development Minister, the Hon. Lanisha Rolle addressed an Information Luncheon, June 22, 2018 at Luciano’s of Chicago, organized by the National Women’s Advisory Council on the topic ‘What you need to know about the CEDAW Convention on Women’s Rights.’
She said, “As we report on our country’s progress in the framework of our national strategic plan, I am pleased that The Bahamas is on a pathway to success in the area of social development. The multi-agency CEDAW taskforce led by the Department of Gender and Family Affairs, under the able supervision of First Assistant Secretary, Melvelyn Symonette, has worked diligently over many months to ensure the country offers the best representation and reaps fruitful exchange and dialogue with our international partners on issues affecting women and girls, designed to positively impact the lives of every individual.”
The Bahamas first appeared at the CEDAW Convention in 2012. This year marks 25 years that The Bahamas has ratified the CEDAW Convention. The Bahamas will submit its second report at the 71st session in the fall of this year.
Among those present at the luncheon were Mrs. Patricia Minnis, wife of Prime Minister Hubert Minnis; the Hon. Janet Bostwick, Kay Forbes-Smith, President of the Senate; senators, members of parliament, permanent secretaries, representatives of other government agencies and 
members of the National Women’s Advisory Council.
Minister Rolle related that her visits to the United Nations 52nd Session of the Commission on the Status of Women, and the recently held Women’s Forum of CHOGM, were both “enlightening” and have inspired the Ministry’s recommitment towards achieving the international Sustainable Development Goals — in particular the virtues incorporated in Goal 5, to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.
“The undertone of both sessions aforementioned, encouraged all nations to give concerted effort and attention to the needs of our women and girls, particularly in rural areas,” she said, and to the goal that no woman be left behind.
She praised Marion Bethel — United Nations CEDAW Committee member, and the first Bahamian selected to sit as an expert on the CEDAW Convention — for her service. And she expressed hope that the information meeting would inspire agencies, departments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and other establishments to partner with the Ministry for other formal sessions.
Ms. Bethel gave an extensive overview of the CEDAW Convention. She said under every human rights convention it is the obligation and responsibility of the state to do certain things; and in this case it is to advance the human rights of women.
“Once you ratify the convention you have basically agreed to the norms and standards that have been collectively agreed universally by all state parties,” said Ms. Bethel.
“The Bahamas has agreed in principle to all the norms and standards of the CEDAW Convention. Secondly, we’ve put ourselves forward to be scrutinized and monitored by the experts for CEDAW on the basis of compliance with the norms and standards.”
Ms. Bethel explained that the CEDAW Convention is looking for state parties to really show the ‘spirit’ of the convention and make efforts to comply, so that when they appear before the convention, they can report progress. If they have not been in compliance, those states must give reasons.
Ms. Bethel told those gathered that The Bahamas has “a duty” to advance the human rights of women and an obligation to put in place laws, institutions and mechanisms to make this happen. She said it is important for NGOs to understand how to use the UN CEDAW Convention, and for all women to hold the state party accountable under the convention.
By: Kathryn Campbell (BIS)
Photo Captions:
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The Hon. Lanisha Rolle, Minister of Social Services and Urban Development, speaks at the National Women’s Advisory Council’s Information Luncheon, June 22, 2018 at Luciano’s of Chicago.
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Marion Bethel, United Nations CEDAW Committee member, during presentation on ‘What You Need to Know About the CEDAW Convention on Women’s Rights.’
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A view of the audience at the National Women’s Advisory Council’s Information Luncheon. Pictured (clockwise from left): the Hon. Glenys Hanna-Martin; the Hon. Janet Bostwick; the Hon. Katherine Forbes-Smith, Senate President; Mrs. Patricia Minnis, wife of Prime Minister, Dr. the Hon. Hubert Minnis; the Hon. Lanisha Rolle, Minister of Social Services and Urban Development; Miriam Emmanuel, MP; and Cora Bain-Colebrooke, Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Social Services and Urban Development. (BIS Photos/Patrick Hanna)
Bahamas News
Get your laugh on, March On, family drama by Gea Pierre, debut this weekend in Turks and Caicos
This is the sixth edition of the relays and the fourth time that The Bahamas has hosted the event, which actually made its debut in The Bahamas in 2014.
President, World Athletics, Sabastian Coe said after three very successful editions from 2014 to 2017, the World Athletics Relays has quickly become one of the World Athletics vibrant competitions, developing a culture of fun and innovation that gives it a unique flavour.
He thanked the Bahamas Government, the local World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 committee and the Bahamian people for agreeing to host the relays. However, his main thanks were to the “world’s best sprinters” travelling from all the continents to compete in preparation for the road to Paris, France, in two months’ time.
During the opening ceremony, the athletes were given words of advice from Carl Lewis, one of only four Olympic athletes to have won nine Olympic gold medals, who is widely recognized as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
He said, “Keep it simple, do not try to do anything extra. Do what your coaches said. Leave on time, leave on time, leave on time.”
The athletes and crowds were treated to the sounds and sights of Junkanoo at the end of the opening ceremony. The Junkanoo performers stuck around for the two days of competitions, playing for the sprinters as they competed on the track.
Teams competed in the Women’s and men’s 4x100m, and the women’s men’s and mixed 4x400m. A total of 14 teams at the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 automatically qualified for places at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Both days of competition were important, as day two offered another chance for qualifications for those teams unsuccessful on day one.
Bahamians were made proud as the country set a new national record during the mixed 4x400m relays thanks to the efforts of 16-year-old Shania Adderley, a student of Tabernacle Baptist Academy.
The team came first in their heat on Sunday evening after not being able to gain a spot for the Paris Olympics on the first day of competition.
Other sprinters on the team included Alonzo Russell, as well as Olympic champions Steven Gardiner and Shaunae Miller-Uibo.
NASSAU, The Bahamas – During his remarks at the Opening Ceremony for the World Athletics Relays 2024, on May 4, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis welcomed the special guests, athletes, officials, and “all lovers of athletics from around the world” to the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium here in the “vibrant heart” of Nassau, Bahamas.
“This weekend, the world’s finest athletes gather on our shores to embark on a journey that is not only about speed and strength but also about dreams and determination,” Prime Minister Davis said. “From the serene beauty of our islands to the historic grandeur of Paris, this event marks a crucial path to the Olympic Games in Paris 2024.”
He added: “Here in The Bahamas, we are no strangers to world-class athletics or the warmth and exuberance that such international gatherings bring. It is a distinct honor to once again welcome the World Athletics Relays back to our islands. This event holds a special place in our hearts, symbolizing a bridge between nations brought together by the universal language of sport.”
Prime Minister Davis noted that that year’s theme, “Paradise to Paris,” captured the essence of that journey.
“It is here, amidst the splendor of our sun-kissed beaches and the rhythmic sway of our palms that the chase towards Olympic glory begins anew,” he stated. “We are thrilled to offer a backdrop of unparalleled beauty, where every sprint, every baton pass, and every victory lap is set against the picture-perfect canvas of our islands.”
He added: “To our athletes, I say this: as you stand on the precipice of your dreams, ready to catapult yourself into the annals of history, know that you are part of a legacy of excellence and determination. This weekend, you are not only competitors but also ambassadors of your countries and the spirit of sport. We are especially proud of Team Bahamas, who carry the weight of their performance and the hopes and pride of our nation. You embody the spirit of The Bahamian people, and we are behind you every step of the way.”
Prime Minister said that to the international visitors, he extended “the warmest Bahamian welcome”.
“Over the next few days, as you revel in the thrill of competition, take a moment to bask in the beauty of our island,” he stated. “Discover why we proudly say, “It’s Better in The Bahamas.” Whether it’s the hospitality of our people, the tranquility of our waters, or the rhythm of our culture, you are in for an experience that captures the heart and rejuvenates the soul.”
“Let us celebrate the unity and friendship that sports foster, cheering every athlete and savoring the spectacle of human potential at its best,” Prime Minister Davis added. “I hope the races are swift, the results are inspiring, and the memories are lasting.
“Welcome to The Bahamas, the paradise where champions chase their dreams to Paris. As your host, it is my immense pleasure to declare the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 2024 officially open. Let the games begin.”
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