Dominica: The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services has introduced a co-parenting campaign in Dominica. A press-conference was held this month on October 23, 2025, to launch and commemorate the official start of the campaign, which will run until February 2026.
This initiative by the Health Ministry of Dominica aims to bridge the gap that exists between co-parents. It is urging those parents to work assiduously in the lives of their children.
Minister of Health, Wellness and Social Services with specific responsibilities for children at risk – Cassandra Williams said that the campaign reinforces the principle that every child deserves love from the parents entrusted with their growth.
C. Williams said, “the campaign therefore reinforces the principle that regardless of living arrangements, every child deserves consistent love, guidance and care from the adults entrusted with their growth.”
According to the Health Minister, this co-parenting campaign emphasises healthy practices built on communication, respect and stability. This includes role of fathers and mothers, more alike in nurturing emotional and psychological well-being.
The community and institutional support systems that can guide families through difficult transitions and the children’s right to maintain meaningful relationships with both parents, wherever possible in a safe and supportive environment.
Reportedly, this initiative will be headed by the Dominica Child Protection Unit. The Acting Head of the unit – Nicole Toussaint said that the campaign focuses on two major frameworks.
According to Toussaint the efforts are guided by:
Firstly, the convention on the rights of the child. Article-18 which affirms that both parents share common responsibilities for their child’s upbringing and that the best interest of the child but must always be the primary concern.
Secondly, the status of Children Act 2023 of the laws of the Commonwealth of Dominica which recognises equal rights and responsibilities for both parents and emphasises the importance of maintaining a stable and meaningful relationship with their child, except in cases where the child’s safety is at risk.
Considering all this, Acting Head Toussaint said that the free guiding principles make it clear that co-parenting is not about control but cooperation.