Meg's update: Task Force Meetings:12-1-2011

Our Sub-Committee, Protect Girls Against Violence is preparing a Side-Event at CSW56, the theme of which is: "Girls Safety: Homes, Communities & School. Two excellent speakers, Professor Shang-Luan Yan, from Taipei, and Teresa Hintzke, noted writer and artist, will share their experiences as ongoing advocates for children's protection. Always invited has been the UN Special Representative for Child Protection, Marta Santos-Pais, an outstanding woman, challenging all forms of violence against our youth. Our monthly WGG meeting followed with UNICEF, Partnership Manager, Mr. Andreas Goureao-Feliu, presenting the highlights of "An Equity Based Approach" a research project to better fulfill the needs of rural children and their families, while narrowing the gaps to meet the MDG. Results of the study has shown the equity-focused approach proves most cost effective and sustainable in reducing maternal mortality, diminishing stunting, preventing mother to child transmission of HIV, and eliminating unsanitary conditions. In education, abolishing school fees and introducing hygiene programs, both boost enrolment.