In a significant stride towards our commitment to Identity, Diversity, Dialogue, and Gender Justice, the World Student Christian Federation Asia Pacific Region proudly hosted a Gender Sensitivity Workshop on July 18th-19th. The workshop formed part of the WSCF Global Event and was a direct response to our Global Program’s core values.
The discussion was robust and far-reaching, delving deep into gender issues from both human rights and theological perspectives. Steering the dialogue were esteemed facilitators including Yowanda Yonggara, AP Regional Secretary; Nina Najoan, Former Women Coordinator of AP; Serena Tiburtini, Regional Secretary WSCF Europe; and Dianet de la Caridad Martínez, WSCF Regional Secretary WSCF LAC.
Throughout the workshop, we tackled some complex issues. Firstly, the understanding and acceptance of gender identity are not universal, and these conversations can often put individuals’ safety at risk. Secondly, we discussed the role of patriarchy in our societal norms and its impact on childhood socialisation. We examined how this can be challenged and redirected, empowering individuals to form identities based on their unique skills rather than gender stereotypes.
Reflecting on biblical teachings, we found inspiration in the stories of the woman suffering from bleeding and Jairos’ daughter (Mark 5:25–34). These stories emphasise Jesus’ compassionate attention to those on the margins and underline our mission to advocate for marginalized individuals.
The Gender Sensitivity Workshop marks a reaffirmation of our commitment to the Identity, Diversity, Dialogue, and Gender Justice Program, established during our recent General Assembly. As we forge ahead, our focus remains on fostering education and critical thinking, especially among younger generations, and promoting human dignity, freedom, and love for all. We are committed to combating all forms of Gender-Based Violence while celebrating the lives of individuals from diverse Sexual Orientations and Gender Identities (SOGI). This is our mission, and we are steadfast in our determination to fulfill it.
The 24th Regional Committee Meeting (RCM) of the WSCF Asia Pacific Region, which took place on 19th and 20th July, brought together delegates from SCM Australia, Korea, Taiwan, Timor Leste, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Indonesia. The General Secretary, Marcelo Leites, and IRO assistant, Camila Ulloa, were also present as ex-officio members.
Among the key outcomes of the RCM was the successful relocation of the regional office from Hong Kong to Indonesia, thanks to the generosity of Paulus Lubis, a WSCF Senior Friend and GMKI member, who provided space in his office. The RCM also saw the approval of all reports presented by the Standing Committee, Executive Committee, and Regional Secretary.
Updates on the Federation’s process and work after the 37th General Assembly in Berlin were shared by Marcelo Leites. The updates included the introduction of the new federative covenant, strategic framework, resolutions, public issues, and recommendations. The General Secretary also presented the proposal for the new operation model and emphasized the importance of collective work in implementing the new strategic plan.
The programs for 2024-2025 have been agreed upon to align with the Global Programmatic Areas of the New Strategic Plan. These areas include Youth, Security, and Peace (Peacebuilding); Climate and Economic Justice; Democracy, Human Rights and Fundamentalism; Identity, Diversity and Dialogue and Gender Justice; and Ecumenical Leadership.
Lastly, the idea of publishing national reports online to inspire inactive SCMs to restart their activities was also discussed. The RCM concluded with the election of the new Asia Pacific Committees.
