Gender Policy for the Parliament of the Cook Islands – Current Status
The Parliament of the Cook Islands is committed to promoting gender equality and strengthening inclusive participation within parliamentary institutions and processes.
At present, Parliament does not yet have a formally adopted Gender Policy. However, as part of ongoing institutional reform, a draft Gender Policy for Parliament has been developed and circulated for consultation among Members and parliamentary staff.
This work forms part of a broader programme to “genderise” Parliament, which includes:
- the reactivation and support of the Cook Islands Women Parliamentarians Caucus,
- the delivery of activities such as the Women’s Parliament and Youth Parliament, and
- preparation for Parliament’s first Gender Self‑Assessment, supported by regional and international partners.
Feedback on the draft policy is welcome. These will be considered, alongside insights from the upcoming Gender Self‑Assessment process, to ensure that any final policy is practical, context‑appropriate, and aligned with Parliament’s constitutional role and Standing Orders.
Once finalised, the Gender Policy will be progressed through the appropriate approval processes. Updates will be communicated as this work advances. You can find the draft policy below.