UN Human Rights Council, 53rd session
Item 3 - Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Violence against Women and Girls
Statement of Norway, on behalf of Nordic-Baltic countries
22 June 2023
Thank you Mr. President,
I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Sweden, and my own country Norway.
We thank the Special Rapporteur for highlighting the concern about the pattern of ignoring intimate partner violence against women in determining child custody cases.
It is particularly worrisome that there are cases where protection systems fail in their duty to protect children and women, and children are compelled to return to abusive and life-threatening situations. All violations of the rights of the child and the principle of the best interest of the child are to be fully respected.
To address these challenges, we must ensure that judges and other experts have adequate training. Allegations of domestic violence must be properly investigated and women experiencing such violence must be ensured with all necessary protection and services.
The Nordic-Baltic countries are committed to protecting women and children against domestic violence and ensuring that gender stereotypes do not affect decisions in child custody cases.
Ms. Alsalem, what would be your advice to national authorities to ensure proper processes in child custody cases?
I thank you.