As part of the Ministry for the Status of Women's efforts to promote women's access to elected office and strengthen their representation within institutions, the Ministry organized an awareness and mobilization meeting focused on women's involvement in public life and the electoral process.

The meeting took place in the presence of Sandy François, the Director General of the Ministry, Frantzdia Gilles, Chief of Staff, members of the Cabinet, Directors of the Ministry, as well as representatives of women's and feminist organizations, civil society, and religious groups.

Providing context for the event, Ms. Sandy François emphasized that women's involvement in public life is first and foremost a matter of rights and democracy. She emphasized that a true democracy cannot be built without their presence in decision-making bodies. Stressing the need to go beyond mere involvement, she encouraged women to continue their journey from participation and leadership representation to the effective exercise of power.

In her address, Pedrica Saint Jean, the Minister for the Status of Women, called for greater involvement of women in public affairs. She reiterated that the country needs women capable of putting forward proposals, defending the collective interest, and contributing to finding solutions to the numerous challenges facing Haiti.

She also mentioned the consultations recently conducted with political parties and groups. These initiatives aim, in particular, to promote greater consideration of women in the mechanisms for selecting and nominating candidates.

Ms. Saint Jean also welcomed the decision adopted by the Council of Ministers on October 5, 2026, providing for a 50% reduction in registration fees for eligible female candidates. Stemming from advocacy efforts led by the MCFDF (Ministry of Women, Family and Women's Rights), this measure represents progress in reducing the financial barriers that women may face when seeking elected office.

The participants then attended a presentation by Mr. Mosler Georges on the main provisions of the electoral decree that benefit women and the requirements for running in the upcoming elections.

The meeting continued with a presentation on engagement, support, and follow-up mechanisms, led by the Acting Director of the West Departmental Directorate, Ms. Edelyne Vertus. This initiative aimed to identify women interested in running for office and to establish appropriate support to guide them through the process.

The workshop concluded with a recommendations session during which participants shared their concerns, expectations, and proposals. These discussions led to the development of concrete action plans to better support women wishing to engage in public life.

HL/ HaitiLibre