Pacific lawmakers have been told to remember who they serve at a conference on sexual health in New Zealand.
More than 30 delegates representing 10 Pacific countries are in Wellington to discuss how Pacific parliaments can prioritize sexual and reproductive health and rights in the sustainable development goals, or SDGs.
The Deputy Prime Minister of Samoa Fiame Naomi Mata’afa says it’s important politicians check they’re meeting the needs of their people.
But the delegates were told talk is worth little if it doesn’t improve the reality for Pacific people.
Fiame said MPs are targeted on the concept that they are representing their respective communities.
She said, “The whole point is, and I think it’s still relevant, to remind members of parliament of that community connection, their representation of those as opposed to being a member of a government that sets policies.”
Fiame said MPs have to check if their work is actually matching up with the needs expressed at the local level.
