Women, The Family And Health
Cecelia Fernandez de Pallini
Greeting to all assembled. I speak about policies in Latin America. Globalization is at the top of our agenda. It is not a problem, but a reality. Less developed countries have received this with negative aspects where they are not able to compete due to communications and economics. We must learn to live with it, we cannot change it.
Who have the worst effects of globalization? It is those who have the least possibilities to react. It is rural and poor women. Communications have substantially changed everything – especially the speed of communication. We cannot be fearful of this, but the issue is to change and adjust. Women must adjust the most to stay on par with men. Equality is at stake. It is up to each individual woman. This will not be an easy adjustment for older women. Many will have to be re-educated. School children can do this easily. We must make extra efforts to affect change.
In developing countries where poverty is a serious issue it is beyond unfair. A small company cannot compete against a global giant. Even middle-sized companies cannot compete. Women feel the effects of this economic issue the most. Our NCW needs to address these issues.
Communications is causing new values, a new dynamic and new type of slavery. We need to control communications that can affect our values. We need to take charge.
Policies in Latin America for women: what the previous speaker said about women would also apply to Columbia. The 30% policy for elections has also been accepted. In politics, things are done on very tough terms. In Norway, 50% representation by women in Parliament has been attained.
Latin American women have very positive political access. Women are well integrated into politics in the region.
Last Modified: June 05, 2010