Hollow commitments to action in the future are insufficient. Deferring difficult issues must not be tolerated. Our children and grandchildren expect us to speak and act decisively.

The Platform for Action gives due emphasis to the fact that women globally have continued to have insufficient access to the resources necessary to achieve economic independence.

New Zealand's taken some very significant decisions in relation to defence in the last two years.

By and large, women in New Zealand are fortunate compared with some other countries, including many in our own region. But there is still progress to be made.

NGOs have a significant role to play, alongside governments, in improving the status of women.

I can't for the life of me see that by being permissive you actually assist anyone.

Hollow commitments to action in the future are insufficient. Deferring difficult issues must not be tolerated. Our children and grandchildren expect us to speak and act decisively.