Mass organizations, particularly the Women's Union, Fatherland Front and Labour Union, have shown strength in informing, educating and communicating with the people on gender equality, on building a cultured life, and building families of prosperity, equality, progressiveness and happiness .

57. In this connection, it should be recalled that, although the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights contemplates elements of progressiveness to guarantee the rights protected by the State, it also considers that regressive measures are not compatible with the commitments undertaken.

However, the concept of progressiveness should by no means be used to justify non compliance with an obligation under the Covenant. While Haiti has not yet ratified the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, there is no doubt that the effective enjoyment of these rights by the population, particularly the poorest segment of the population, is one of President Préval apos s priorities.