Women legal eagles host forum

 The International Commission of Jurists (Queensland chapter) and Women Lawyers will host a discussion on issues affecting PNG women in legal practice.

It will start on July 25 at the Banco Court, Supreme Court of Queensland, in Brisbane, sponsored by Amnesty International.

The discussion will be the first for women and is expected to provide an insight into the challenges facing women lawyers in PNG.

“It will provide an opportunity for women lawyers in PNG to learn about their achievements and, importantly, it will enable the Australian legal profession and wider public to build relationship with and show support for women lawyers in PNG,” Michelle Alexander, UN’s women communication officer, said.

Justice Catherine Holmes, of the Queensland Court of Appeal, will chair the discussion to be opened by Charles Lepani, the High Commissioner of Papua New Guinea. 

The evening looks set to generate a spirited discussion of the issues affecting women in the law in PNG, highlight a range of perspectives and strengthen ties between Australia and Papua New Guinea. 

Presenters at the occasion include Dr Jeffrey Buchanan, UN women’s country representative for PNG who will talk about access to justice for women and children in PNG; Justice Catherine Davani, the first woman  appointed to the Supreme Court of PNG; Avia Koisen, principal of Koisen Lawyers and interim president of PNG Women’s Chamber of Commerce; Laura Kuvi, officer in charge of Waigani Chambers at the PNG Office of Public Prosecutors; and Emma Wurr, principal legal officer, human rights, PNG Office of the Public Solicitor.