Tonga
Population: 112,000
Capital:Nuku’alofa
Tonga has a small economy and while Tongans enjoy a relatively high quality of life they remain highly vulnerable to natural and economic disasters. A heavy dependence on remittances from family living outside of the country, high levels of emigration, lack of employment opportunities and few opportunities for youth contribute to the hardship many face. The country is ruled by a constitutional monarchy, although protests against this arrangement are increasing and there is a strong movement calling for democratic reform.
Our work
CWS funds two partners in Tonga.The Human Rights and Democracy Movement is working for a more democratic form of government and good governance through awareness raising, advocacy and lobbying. It also monitors human rights injustices. Activities include:
- Community meetings on human rights and democracy
- Public debate in the media on democracy, human rights, constitutional change, free speech and free media and continued opposition to proposed constitutional changes which would limit press freedom
- Training human rights personnel, volunteers and institutions
- An annual report on human rights violations in Tonga
The Tonga Community Development Trust focuses on women’s and community development including:
- Food security
- Self sufficiency
- Income generation
- Environmental protection
- Women’s role in the community
- Women’s human rights.
Our partners
Human Rights and Democracy Movement
www.planet-tonga.com/HRDMT/
Tonga Community Development Trust
www.tcdt.to/
