Leadership, wage gaps, safety, health and care work are five areas of gender disparity in the region that require action, according to the Pacific Community.
The SPC's message comes as the region marks International Women's Day.
In line with the international theme for the day "Pledge for Parity", the SPC is calling for greater debate on ways of closing gender gaps in the Pacific.
SPC Director-General, Colin Tukuitonga. Photo: Pacificwomen.org
A recent SPC report said despite advances, Pacific women are still faced with cultural, social, economic and institutional barriers to developing their full potential.
The Director-General Colin Tukuitonga said the Pacific Community is committed to ensuring that Pacific people benefit from sustainable economic development, are empowered and live long and healthy lives, regardless of gender.
He said parity should be promoted at all levels, from public governance to changing nappies.
Dr Tukuitonga pointed to the recent election of Hilda Heine as Marshall Islands President and the likelihood of Fiame Naomi Mata'afa becoming Samoa's first female deputy prime minister as extremely encouraging.
