HRC58: Annual high-level panel discussion on human rights mainstreaming: Thirtieth anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action 

Statement by H.E. Thorgerdur Katrín Gunnarsdóttir,

Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic states

24 February 2025

Mr. President,

I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.

We welcome this opportunity to commemorate the thirtieth anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action and to reaffirm our commitment to its full implementation.

Gender equality must remain a priority not just for long-term peace and economic well-being but in order to secure human rights of all.

The Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action and the outcome documents of following review conferences, put forth a bold vision of women’s and girls’ full enjoyment of all human rights. Many important achievements have been made but yet, thirty years after its adoption, we still have a long way to reach its goals.

It is imperative to tackle sexual and gender-based violence, ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health and rights, to bridge the digital gender gap, and to recognise the structural inequalities and the multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination women and girls face globally.

Mr. President,

We firmly believe that gender transformative policies are the foundation for inclusive and rights-based societies where everyone can prosper.

True progress requires strong global partnerships and the involvement of all, including men and boys. Now is the time for decisive action to create lasting change.

I thank you.