In a bold step to strengthen national emergency preparedness and gender-based violence (GBV) response, Saint Lucia hosted a pivotal two-day training workshop on May 26 and 27, 2025, at the Harbor Club in Rodney Bay. The Gender-Based Violence in Emergencies (GBViE) training brought together key representatives from government agencies, civil society, and healthcare institutions. The event was co-convened by UNFPA, UN Women, and the Government of Saint Lucia, in collaboration with the Caribbean Development Bank.
The workshop aimed to build national capacity on Gender Equality, Social Inclusion, and Gender-Based Violence, particularly in the context of emergencies and climate-related disasters. A key milestone of the training was the official validation of Saint Lucia’s Clinical Management of Rape Protocol signaling a significant improvement in coordinated survivor support services.
Liaison Officer of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) for Barbados & the OECS, Ms. Dejane Gibbons, highlighted the growing urgency of this training as the Caribbean faces more frequent and severe climate-related events. “So the increased frequency and severity of climate-related disasters continue to threaten lives and systems. This initiative underscores how critical it is to strengthen the resilience of health systems particularly as it relates to GBV response through the government and people of Saint Lucia’s steadfast commitment,” she added.
Jany Joseph, Director of Gender Affairs in the Ministry of the Public Service, Home Affairs, Labour and Gender Affairs, emphasized the national efforts in policy and coordination. “Only in December 2024, Saint Lucia launched the National Inter-agency Task Force on Gender-Based Violence. This training is timely and shows strong cross-sectoral collaboration. I commend the health sector for validating this Clinical Management of Rape protocol, as it ensures that our care systems align with global standards,” noted Director Joseph.
Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Sharon Belmar-George, reaffirmed the Ministry’s focus on structured, responsive systems to protect and support GBV survivors. “In Saint Lucia, as we work towards the attainment of resilient health systems, the capacity to respond to Gender-Based Violence remains a critical component. We are committed to coordinated efforts that deliver quality care to victims of Gender-Based Violence, particularly in times of crisis,” stated Dr. George.
Jenny Daniel, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs, applauded the initiative and reinforced its alignment with the Ministry’s long-term vision. “This initiative is timely and commendable. It aligns strongly with our Ministry’s mandate to build resilient health systems that prioritize the well-being of all, especially the most vulnerable. We are proud to support actions that advance gender-responsive healthcare and social protection during emergencies. Such collaboration demonstrates our commitment to equity, access, and dignity for every citizen,” explained Permanent Secretary Daniel.
Hon. Moses Jn. Baptiste, Minister for Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs, further highlighted the importance of ensuring that vulnerable individuals receive support with compassion, especially during disaster events. “When communities face the devastation of natural disasters or other emergencies, it is often the most vulnerable including women and girls who bear the greatest burden. This training reinforces our commitment to building systems that respond swiftly, sensitively, and effectively, ensuring that no survivor is left behind and all are treated with dignity and compassion,” added Minister Jn. Baptiste.
The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs applauds the successful outcome of the GBViE workshop. With more healthcare providers, national stakeholders, and frontline responders now trained and sensitized, Saint Lucia is better positioned to deliver rapid, compassionate, and coordinated GBV services in emergency situations.