UN Human Rights Council 48: UK statement for the interactive dialogue on the human rights of women and girls in conflict and post-conflict situations

The United Kingdom strongly welcomes this latest report and is firmly committed to ensuring the human rights of women and girls are mainstreamed in conflict and post-conflict situations.

We note the continued effort required to progress the women, peace and security agenda, particularly as women and girls are more likely to experience human rights violations and see their rights curtailed in times of conflict and crises.

As this report reflects, there is a robust correlation between women’s participation in peace negotiations and the durability and quality of peace. That is why we are committed to promoting women’s full, equal and meaningful participation and protection in all aspects and at all levels of peace processes, humanitarian action and leadership.

To support this the United Kingdom continues to champion and protect women and girls’ rights. We have consistently defended the WPS agenda at the UN and are proud to be a global leader in preventing and responding to conflict-related sexual violence. We will continue to promote universal access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health and rights and are committed to 12 years of quality education for all girls by 2030.

High Commissioner,

At a time when multiple threats risk rolling back hard-won progress on gender equality, how can Member States better protect and champion the human rights of women and girls?