Woman laws at Tokelau (NZ)
Tokelau, a non-self-governing territory of New Zealand, has made significant strides in advancing women's rights, blending traditional cultural practices with modern legal frameworks. (Third and fourth periodic reports of States parties--New Zealand)
Legal Framework and International Commitments
While Tokelau does not have a separate legal system, New Zealand's legislation applies, including the Equal Remuneration Convention (C100) of the International Labour Organization, which mandates equal pay for equal work. This convention has been extended to Tokelau, ensuring that gender-based wage discrimination is prohibited . (Equal Remuneration Convention)
Additionally, Tokelau is a non-self-governing territory under New Zealand's jurisdiction, and it has participated in international forums such as the Fourth World Conference on Women in 1995. At this conference, Tokelau acknowledged the need to balance traditional gender roles with the evolving recognition of women's rights, emphasizing the importance of education and awareness to empower women . (Third and fourth periodic reports of States parties--New Zealand)
Traditional Roles and Cultural Practices
In Tokelauan society, women traditionally hold significant roles within the family and community. The term "Fatupaepae," meaning "Sacred Being," reflects the reverence for women as central figures in family and village life. These women are responsible for distributing resources and making decisions that affect their communities . (Third and fourth periodic reports of States parties--New Zealand, Fatupaepae)
However, traditional gender roles have also placed women primarily in domestic spheres, with men participating more in public decision-making. This division has historically limited women's political participation. (Third and fourth periodic reports of States parties--New Zealand)
Political Participation and Representation
Women's involvement in Tokelau's governance has been evolving. Since 1994, women have been represented in the General Fono, Tokelau's highest national forum. Currently, three of the 20 General Fono delegates are women, constituting 15% of the representation. Additionally, each atoll has a Fatupaepae representative who serves on the General Fono, ensuring women's voices are included in national decision-making . (Tokelau | UN Women – Asia-Pacific, Fatupaepae)
Economic Participation and Education
Women in Tokelau have made notable progress in education and employment. According to the 2016 census, the proportion of women studying at the tertiary level was more than twice that of men. In the workforce, women are more likely than men to hold professional roles. However, men are more likely to participate in paid work overall. Both genders engage extensively in unpaid work, with women more involved in domestic tasks and men in activities like fishing .
Addressing Violence and Empowerment
Tokelau has recognized the importance of addressing violence against women. The Fatupaepae holds meetings to discuss and resolve issues faced by women, serving as a link between the atolls in redefining and setting their needs. These efforts align with broader initiatives supported by UN Women, including programs focused on ending violence against women, economic empowerment, and increasing community resilience through women's involvement in climate change and disaster risk management . (Third and fourth periodic reports of States parties--New Zealand, Tokelau | UN Women – Asia-Pacific)
Conclusion
Tokelau's approach to women's rights reflects a blend of respect for traditional cultural roles and an openness to modern legal frameworks and international commitments. While challenges remain, particularly in achieving gender parity in political representation and addressing violence, the ongoing efforts of women's organizations like the Fatupaepae and the support from international partners indicate a positive trajectory toward greater gender equality in Tokelau. (Third and fourth periodic reports of States parties--New Zealand)
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