Delegation of the European Union to Kazakhstan

10/08/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/08/2024 16:21

EU Statement – UN General Assembly 3rd Committee: Interactive Dialogue with UNFPA

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EU Statement - UN General Assembly 3rd Committee: Interactive Dialogue with UNFPA

8 October 2024, New York - European Union Statement at the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly Third Committee: Interactive Dialogue with the Representative from UNFPA, Dr. Ayman Abdelmohsen

Thank you, Chair!

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union and its Member States.

Dr. Abdelmohsen, we would like to express our appreciation to the United Nations Population Fundfor this presentation.

The continued prevalence of obstetric fistula and female genital mutilation is unacceptable. Failure to eradicate harmful practices such as FGM is a symptom of the alarming trend of backsliding in gender equality and women and girls' rights.

We welcome the results in community engagement in relation to FGM and the work to ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health. The topics also feature in the Pact for the Future.

The EU remains committed to the promotion, protection and fulfilment of all human rights and to the full and effective implementation of the Beijing Platform for Action and the Programme of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) and the outcomes of their review conferences and remains committed to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR),in this context. Having that in mind, the EU reaffirms its commitment to the promotion, protection and fulfilment of the right of every individual to have full control over, and decide freely and responsibly on matters related to their sexuality and sexual and reproductive health, free from discrimination, coercion and violence. The EU further stresses the need for universal access to quality and affordable comprehensive sexual and reproductive health information, education, including comprehensive sexuality education, and health-care services.

Yet, none of the indicators of SDG5 on gender equality haves been met. This is compounded by the regression in addressing poverty and closing the gap in gender inequality, outlined in the Secretary General's recent report.

Social stigma and marginalization associated with obstetric fistula and female genital mutilation take an immense physical, mental and psychological toll on women and girls. Both issues should be addressed holistically, based on human rights and gender-responsive action. This is where the work of the UNFPA is and should remain visible in the field.

The EU reaffirms its commitment to the right of every individual to have full control over and decide freely and responsibly on matters related to their sexuality, including their sexual and reproductive health, free from coercion, discrimination and violence. We act on this within the Joint Programme on the Elimination of FGM or through the allocation of 20 million euros for our 'SafeBirth Africa' Programme. We stand ready to do more with likeminded partners. The EU remains steadfast in promoting gender equality and the full enjoyment of human rights for all women and girls.

Dr. Abdelmohsen, how can we streamline access to resources with proven viability in caring for women and girls suffering from obstetric fistula or genital mutilation?

Thank you.