Norway stands firm in our committment to the Beijing Platform for Action. We will remain a strong advocate for gender equality, sexual and reproductive health and rights, and the human rights for LGBT+ people. For diversity. For inclusion.
The Norwegian Government is deeply committed to funding national structures that promote gender equality. We know that this is fundamental for protecting human rights, enhancing democracy, and for ensuring a prosperous society.
In these challenging times, it is crucial to safeguard a robust and effective national legislation that protects women and girls in all their diversity against discrimination in all forms, allows for positive action, and obligates the public and the private sector to promote diversity and inclusion.
In Norway, gender mainstreaming is mandatory by law. However, we also need solid and well-funded equality institutions to take the lead. Norway has a ministry responsible for coordinating policies and a directorate in charge of the implementation. We fund regional equality centers in all five regions and strong, effective and accessible equality bodies.
Colleagues,
An important part of the structure for gender equality in Norway is the funding of, and dialogue with, civil society and the tripartite cooperation between the authorities, employers and employees. This is imperative in promoting gender equality, fostering welfare and eliminating poverty.
So is the formalized cooperation with our indigenous people. I commend the Sami Parliament for their efforts to promote gender equality in the Sami Communities and for their important contributions to the National Escalation Plan on Domestic violence. I am pleased to announce that we will establish a branch of the Equality and Anti-Discrimination Ombud specializing in Sami language and issues.
Dear all,
Norway is committed to accelerating the implementation of the Beijing Platform for Action and contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. In December last year, Norway launched a cross-sectoral strategy for gender equality, aiming for enhancing gender mainstreaming and ensuring that Norway continues to set the standard as a leading role model for gender equality.
Colleagues, in these challenging times, we must prioritize gender equality.
Thank you.