Gender Equality Policy: The MCFDF Conducts a Self-Assessment

As March 8 approaches, the ministry assesses progress and admits to 'persistent shortcomings' in addressing gender-based violence.

Concrete actions or mere rhetoric? This Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at Hotel Montana, the Ministry for the Status of Women and Women's Rights (MCFDF) launched two days of reflection on the 2014-2034 Gender Equality Policy and its National Action Plan (PANEFH).

The stated objective: to evaluate progress, identify shortcomings, and strengthen the coherence of public action on gender issues.

Under the leadership of Director General Sandy François, and in the presence of ministry officials, UN agencies (UNFPA), feminist organizations, and civil society, the exercise aims to be participatory. However, beyond the institutional decorum, the interventions revealed a more nuanced reality.

'A demanding look at the results achieved'

Minister Pedrica Saint Jean set the tone: while the adoption of the policy in 2014 constituted 'a decisive turning point,' it is now time to 'take a demanding look' at the progress made.

For many analysts, progress exists — gradual integration of gender into public policies, social protection programs, initiatives for reproductive health and girls' education — but it remains insufficient given the scale of the challenges.

Because 'structural inequalities and gender-based violence remain concerning.' An admission that resonates as a partial acknowledgment of failure, in a country where women continue to suffer discrimination, insecurity, and underrepresentation in decision-making bodies.

The International Community Is Watching

Samir Anouti, UNFPA representative in Haiti, praised 'the government's commitment' while recalling the strategic partnership on sensitive issues such as sexual and reproductive health, the fight against GBV, and institutional strengthening. A discreet but clear reminder: donors expect measurable results, not just intentions.

Political Support in Question

The minister emphasized the support of Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, praising 'a constant political will.' A timely statement, as the government faces criticism on other fronts. But beyond words, the credibility of this commitment will be determined on the ground.

'Ensuring the effective participation of women in decision-making spaces is to deepen democracy,' Pedrica Saint Jean stressed. It remains to be seen whether strategic positions, allocated budgets, and public policies will follow.

Technical Discussions, Immense Expectations

The work, structured around the PANEFH guidelines, allowed for a sector-by-sector examination of progress and obstacles: access to equitable justice, non-sexist education, reproductive health, economic empowerment. These are all areas where promises often clash with reality.