6 December 2025 — The Steering Committee responsible for developing the Chin gender policy framework officially launched the document today, outlining its purpose and contents in a press release.
Mai Cer, a leading member of the steering committee, stated that the framework’s primary objectives are to reduce and eliminate gender inequalities within Chin communities, ensure access to equal opportunities, and strengthen holistic development for Chin civil society.
Development of the comprehensive over-40-page framework began in November 2024 through collective and inclusive efforts. The document is structured into nine chapters, addressing seven key topics and two focused on implementation procedures. The group emphasized that the framework is the result of a series of rigorous meetings, discussions, and workshops.
The team acknowledged that significant work remains for successful implementation, including awareness raising, capacity training, and advocacy engagements with various stakeholders. They underscored that the effective contribution of all stakeholders is essential for the framework’s successful delivery.
Dr. Mawite, a technical team member, highlighted the resource needs: “There are many needs, including financial and technical resources. We also need to strengthen human resources.”
The press release followed a three-day event held in Aizawl, where women and men representing diverse communities and groups conducted discussions, reviews, and updates on the policy framework.
Addressing a query about the Burmese translation of ‘gender,’ which often means ‘men and women,’ the committee clarified that the term was intentionally chosen to be more accommodating, encompassing men, women, and other diverse groups based on their gender identity.
Salai Sui noted the existing misunderstanding of the concept of ‘gender’ within the Chin community. “Many people still think that gender is only about women and that women are solely responsible. However, this is a wrong perspective. Gender means men, women, and other identities,” he explained.
The team reaffirmed the link between gender and fundamental human rights while stressing the necessity of strengthening women’s representation, participation, and involvement in decision-making, peace-building, and conflict resolution processes.
“We are in the initial phase of introducing the framework,” said Dr. Mawite. “This will be followed by many other activities, including discussion, review, awareness raising, and capacity building, to materialize what is written in the framework. We also need to secure funding and technical expertise for its further improvement and implementation.”#
