8TH JUNE 2006

STUDY VISIT OF WOMEN'S CAUCUS IN PARLIAMENT OF SRI LANKA TO SOUTH AFRICA

A study on the political participation of Women in Sri Lanka has revealed that compared to other fields, their participation in political activities is very low. This is lower than other South Asian Countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and Maldives in national and provincial levels as well.

In the light of this situation the Parliament of Sri Lanka has formed a Women’s Caucus in early 2006 and is in the process of taking steps in this regard. The UNDP, assisting us in a re-organization and modification of our Parliament has also identified Gender and Women's empowerment as vital issues and focused their efforts to develop capacity in this area.

As a meaningful step to achieve the aims of the Caucus it has been decided to arrange a visit of a Sri Lankan delegation to your esteemed country as it would be of immense use to them in achieving their objectives.

The Study tour is planned for approximately 28^th July to 3rd August 2006 and wish to meet delegations from the following organizations.

· The South African Women's Parliamentary Caucus

· The Commission on Gender Equality

· The ad hoc Committee on the Quality of Life and Status of Women

· The Commission for Restitution of Land Rights and the Land Claims Court

· The Public Protector