Item 3 - International Dialogue with Working Group on discrimination against women and girls. JST Belgia. (24.06.2025)

Human Rights Council 59th session.

Item 3 - International Dialogue with Working Group on discrimination against women and girls.

Joint Statement on positive impact of HRDs by the BENELUX and a cross regional group of countries  

Thematic report: Gendered dimensions of care and support systems

24.06.2025

Chair, I deliver this statement on behalf of a cross regional group of more than 60 countries.

Throughout history, women and girls have played pivotal roles in driving change and leading advancements in human rights. Globally, women and girls human rights defenders (WHRDs) and movements have been instrumental in achieving significant legal milestones at the international, regional and national levels, fostering more equitable and just societies and promoting gender equality.

However, the increasing influence of movements, policies and actors opposing gender equality has contributed to a more challenging environment for women human rights defenders. The threats they face include online and offline gender-based violence, gendered disinformation and smear campaigns, harassment and discrimination. These threats are intensified by the intersection with other forms of discrimination and marginalization.

Care and support systems are crucial for WHRDs to continue their work. States, regional organizations, the UN and broader civil society have a role to play in supporting such systems.

Creating and maintaining a safe and enabling environment is also essential. It requires a comprehensive and sustained approach that amplifies their vital contributions, acknowledges the unique challenges they face and takes concerted efforts to mitigate them. This includes prioritizing women human rights defenders’ safety, including online, as well as providing long-term core support and capacity-building, while promoting collaboration among WHRDs, civil society organizations, and governments to build a stronger support network. It also includes measures to create opportunities for the participation of WHRDs in decision-making processes.

On this year, marking the 30^th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, this statement pays tribute to the numerous achievements and meaningful progress made by women and girls human rights defenders, and emphasizes the continued need for their voices to be heard and supported.

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