From June 16 to 19, the fifth edition of the No Mas No More conference took place in Sint Maarten. During this event, professionals from all six islands of the Caribbean part of the Kingdom came together. Representatives from the ministries of Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS), Education, Culture and Science (OCW), and Justice and Security (JenV) were also present.
The central message of the conference was clear: it is important that we work together towards the ratification of the Istanbul Convention. An international treaty aimed at preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence.
During the working conference, action plans were developed in six areas: gender equality, temporary restraining orders and time-out methods, mental health in relation to domestic violence, behavior change in awareness campaigns, data collection, and assistance to undocumented individuals in domestic violence situations. These themes are directly linked to various articles of the Istanbul Convention.
The focal points of the memorandum of understanding, which the islands signed during the last No Mas No More conference, have also been incorporated into the action plans. These themes include: cross-border shelter provision, protection codes, research, awareness, knowledge sharing, and professional development.
The title of this conference is more than a slogan—it represents a courageous commitment to real, tangible change. This gathering is not just about being present; every participant has contributed to a powerful message of collective determination. No Mas, No More—Not here, nowhere anymore,” said the Honorable Minister of Health, Social Development and Labor of Sint Maarten, Mr. Richenel Brug.
The No Mas No More working group, consisting of members from all six islands and the VWS ministry, reflects on a successful conference. There was ample space for sharing knowledge, experiences, and ideas. Participants returned to their islands with new insights and concrete plans to continue building a safe future for everyone together with partners in the justice and security chain.
