Vanuatu has been listed as one of the countries participating in the Wave of Change’ European Union Pacific Art Competition.
The competition that is now open, is a new project of the Delegation of the European Union for the Pacific
The initiative aims at involving young people in the Pacific in a regional conservation on the issues that underlie gender-based violence, such as respect, value and recognition of women.
The Ambassador of the EU in the Pacific, Sujiro Seam said this new initiative recognises the critical role young people play in breaking cycles of behaviours and attitudes that lead to violence against women and girls now and into the future.
“Although there is a political commitment in the Pacific to address violence against women and girls, the discussions and debates are mainly centered around and dominated by higher-level players, and almost always adults.”
“Recognising that the cycle of the violence against women and girls begins during childhood development when attitudes, values and behaviour are learned and shaped, this competition will engage school-age children and young people in these critical conversations to try and prevent violence against women and girls before it happens.”
“Art is also a powerful yet accessible medium for young people to express ideas, and to encourage creative and critical engagement with issues that are complex and difficult.”
Ambassador Seam also recalled in this context the EU’s new Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy 2020-2024, launched in November 2020, which reaffirms that in the middle of a global pandemic, the EU is reinforcing leadership on human rights.
The EU’s new Action Plan attaches particular importance to gender equality and the fight against gender-based violence.
The competition comprises of three age categories and is open to school students aged 8 years and over from 16 Pacific island countries.
The winner of each category will receive a prize pack worth EUR 100 with school items of their choice, while the runners up and the most will popular art on social media will receive a prize pack valued at EUR 50.
The competition will close on 5 February, 2021.
The EU Delegation plans to publish a book with the artworks received as part of its International Women’s Day activities on 8 March 2021.