26

Dec

2024

2024 | 57th session of the Human Rights | Human Rights Council | Oral statements

Commending the UAE’s Efforts to Safeguard, Promote, and Empower African Women

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About the Statement:

The Union Association for Human Rights delivered an oral statement under Item 8 during the 57th session of the Human Rights Council, focusing on the implementation of the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action. The statement expressed deep concern over structural discrimination, violence, and grave violations endured by women in developing countries, particularly in Africa. It called for accelerated legislative and developmental reforms to protect women and promote equality and empowerment. It also praised the Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Initiative to Empower Africa’s Rural Women in the Agricultural Sector, describing it as an inspiring model for sustainable development and on-the-ground empowerment.

Content of the Statement:

  • The statement expressed deep concern over the persistence of violence and discrimination against women and girls, which in some countries amount to serious human rights violations.
  • It commended:
    • the efforts of the UN Working Group on Discrimination Against Women and Girls.
    • its role in monitoring violations and protecting women from discrimination and marginalization.
  • It stressed the importance of:
    • The Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action as a fundamental reference for advancing women’s rights and empowerment.
    • Structural, legislative, and political reforms to ensure justice for women in developing countries.
    • Focusing on the situation of women in Africa, who face compounded challenges of poverty, marginalization, and lack of protection.
  • It called on the Human Rights Council to:
    • Urge states to invest in empowering rural women and improving their conditions.
    • Strengthen programs and initiatives that provide livelihoods and food security.
  • It praised the Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Initiative:
    • to Empower Africa’s Rural Women in the Agricultural Sector.
    • which aims to build the capacity of over 20,000 rural women.
    • and seeks to improve quality of life and promote family and community development in impoverished African regions.

Importance of the Statement:

  • Highlighting structural discrimination against African women: The statement underscores the challenges women face, particularly in rural and impoverished areas, where gender-based discrimination combines with poverty and institutional marginalization.
  • Renewing international commitment to the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action: The statement reaffirms that this document remains a central tool for advancing women’s rights and achieving genuine equality.
  • Emphasizing the significance of grassroots empowerment initiatives: The statement commends UAE development projects in Africa, positioning Sheikha Fatima’s initiative as a leading model linking economic empowerment to food security and community stability.
  • Urging states to expand programs targeting rural women: The statement calls on states and the international community to reinforce comprehensive empowerment programs for rural women and integrate them into national development plans.