HRC56 Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on violence against women its causes and consequences EU Statement

United Nations Human Rights Council

56th session

Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on violence against women its causes and consequences

21 June 2024

EU Intervention

Mr President,

The European Union is a staunch supporter of the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on Violence Against Women and Girls, its causes and consequences.

We regret that the diverse voices of the women and girls at the heart of this report, have been insufficiently taken into account. It is paramount to uphold their agency and the "nothing about us, without us" principle.

The EU is unwavering in our commitment to the full, equal and meaningful participation of all women and girls in all aspects of life; including in public reports about them. We will continue to vigorously promote gender equality, ensure the equal and full enjoyment of all human rights by all women and girls and ensure their empowerment, free from multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination. The promotion and protection of the rights of all women and girls, including those concerned by this report, remains a high priority.

In this vein, the EU last month adopted the first-ever EU-wide law combating violence against women, criminalizing offences across the EU, including sexual exploitation, FGM, forced marriage, cyber stalking and harassment.

Ms. Alsalem,

How can we ensure that the voices of all women and girls who are the subject of this report are heard and listened to when policies concerning them are made?

Thank you.

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