October 6, 2026
NEW YORK — The Federated States of Micronesia has called for women’s leadership to be fully included in climate action and disaster preparedness, while acknowledging continuing barriers to equality at home and abroad.
In an October 6 statement to the United Nations General Assembly’s Third Committee, the FSM delegation identified gender-based violence, unequal economic opportunities and barriers to decision-making as challenges affecting women and girls, including in Micronesia.
The statement, released by the FSM Permanent Mission to the UN, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to gender equality and emphasized women’s contributions to education, healthcare, public service, community development, environmental protection and peacebuilding.
The delegation also highlighted the traditional foundations of women’s leadership in Micronesian communities.
Women have long served as peacemakers and mediators, helping resolve disputes and maintain community harmony, the statement said. In several FSM states, matrilineal customs continue to influence traditional governance and social structures, including women’s stewardship of land.
“Through these traditions, women exercise stewardship over land, one of our most important social, cultural, and economic assets,” the delegation stated.
Despite those longstanding roles, the statement acknowledged that significant obstacles remain to women’s full participation in society.
Climate change presents particular challenges, the delegation said, calling for women’s voices, knowledge and leadership to be incorporated into efforts to reduce disaster risks and strengthen community resilience.
The FSM also urged stronger international cooperation and adequate financing to support national efforts toward equality. It identified sustained investment in education, healthcare, training and economic empowerment as priorities.
As countries work toward the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the delegation called for renewed efforts to ensure women and girls are included in that progress.
The statement described the advancement of women as both a matter of human rights and a requirement for peaceful, prosperous and resilient societies. It concluded by reaffirming the FSM’s commitment to working with other UN member states and partners to advance women’s rights and leadership.
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