Presentation Sisters Union North East Ireland Union of Sisters of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary
UN Day for the Eradication of Poverty and the IPA
On the 17th October each year the United Nations marks the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. The theme for 2020 is: ‘Acting together to achieve social and environmental justice for all”.
The eradication of poverty is at the heart of what Presentation is about, expressed through the evolving legacy of Nano Nagle (founder of the Presentation Congregation) in our times through the work and commitment of Presentation people locally and globally.
It is fitting that the International Presentation Association (IPA) each year identifies a project for its support that witnesses to the practical eradication of poverty. The project identified this year is based in Papua New Guinea* and is an expression of the Mission of the Presentation Society of Australia and Papua New Guinea. The IPA support for this project strengthens the mission of the IPA to be able to speak and act in partnership with others for global justice.
“It further assists IPA Membership and Presentation people in fulfilling our commitment to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – particularly Goals 1,5,10,16 and 17.
About the Papua New Guinea Project
In the words of the IPA in Papua New Guinea:
“Our work in Papua New Guinea continues the proud tradition of Nano Nagle and Presentation people from across the globe. This project will work to empower women and children and address systemic barriers which continue their oppression and poverty. The project will be addressing the following SDGs:
Goal 1: No Poverty
Goal 2: Zero Hunger
Goal 3: Good Health & Well-being
Goal 4: Quality Education
Goal 5: Gender Equality
Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities
Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals
We see that our work in Papua New Guinea is best achieved through collaboration”.
Financial assistance from the International Prestation Association (IPA) will allow a focus on generational change in regard to gender based violence through:
- Building a network of NGOs currently working in Papua New Guinea & fostering positive working relationships with them
- Providing upfront assistance for women and children escaping violence in the home
- Implementation of education and resource programmes targeted at women and children
- Establishing short-term accommodation for women and children fleeing Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
The Leadership Team of the Presentation Sisters responsible for the mission in PNG are responsible for this project.
A few statistics
The current statistics for the situation on the ground in Papua New Guinea are truly alarming:
- 88% of women rely on informal support networks for support
- 68% of women experience gender-based violence
- 7.7% of men admit perpetrating violence
The following is an extract from a prayer for the Elimination of Gender Based Violence (GBV) against women prepared by Ricard Rogusz, Justice Contact, Queensland) and shared by the IPA in a recent communication.
We Go Out
Loving God,
giver of life, justice and peace,
you created us in your image
and blessed us with dignity.But in our world we know
that gender-based violence is an afront to the dignity
of women and children.In the same way that you gave comfort to Tamar, Dinah and Hagar**,
hold these women and children in your loving arms
and send them your consolation and strength.Awaken in our hearts compassion for victims of violence
and deepen our commitment to your justice in our world.
Through our action may they find refuge,
salve for their wounds and healing.Through the mystery of your Son’s resurrection,
may we all realise our buried hopes:
that all will be respected, that all will be loved,
and that all will live in peace.We ask this in the name of Jesus, your Son.
Amen
(Note: The material that informs this News item comes from a recent International Presentation Association (IPA) communication to IPA Trustees, Members and Presentation people – 18th September 2020).
*Background to Papua New Guinea Project: Gender Inequality in Papua New Guinea (PNG) is a social, economic and political issue. Due to poor infrastructure and the remote nature of villages, implementing a national response is difficult. The issue of gender-based violence (GBV) in PNG is well documented and becoming increasingly evident in reports in the media of developed nations. E.g. In a report published by Darko, Smith and Walker (2015) it acknowledges the estimate of over tow thirds of women in PNG have been the victim of physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. It is reported that 7.7% of men admit to perpetrating the violence against women. We can see the discrepancies of those numbers and the potential for increased violence as a result of the reporting of these instances.
[…] “The fight against violence in all its forms needs to be addressed by all individuals and organisations. It is for this reason we, as Presentation people, are working alongside our partner organisations in PNG, and working with the document prepared by the PNG Government: ‘Papua New Guinea National Strategy to Prevent and Respond to Gender Based Violence (2016-2025)”.
**Tamar, Dinah and Hagar are women who appeared in Old Testament and who experienced gender-based violence.