- Over the past fifteen years Taiwan has witnessed a great mobilization of women in all areas of society. Despite a long history of political, cultural, religious and socioeconomic constraints the role of women in the home and society has changed considerably.
- The number of NGO bodies related to women ’s issue which now exist in Taiwan of itself is am ample evidence of this change.
- Since the First East Asian Women ’s Forum in 1994 women from Taiwan have actively participated and contributed to each gathering. The experience of meeting and sharing with other women from the region was invaluable.
- Our participation did not end with the Forum meetings. After the 1995 EAWF for example, the twelve actions were adopted and became valuable directives for our own NGO ’s to pursue.
- Now we enter a new era with its many challenges. Poverty takes on a different meaning as we grabble with matters such as gender equality and the advancement of women in high-tech society and global village.
- The opportunity to host the Forth EAWF in Taiwan is a joy to us and we look forward to leaning and sharing with one another. May each of us gain new insights and discover what are the prospects and hopes in this New Century for New Women to pursue and fulfill.
- Up to today, 53 groups participate in the steering committee.
