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09 June 2000
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General Assembly Plenary
Twenty-third Special Session
9 June 2000
9th Meeting (AM)
The special session of the General Assembly -- "Women 2000, Gender Equality, Development and Peace for the Twenty-first Century" -- continued its review of the implementation of the Platform for Action adopted at the Fourth World Conference on Women (Beijing, 1995) this morning, hearing from 15 speakers.
The Minister of Women’s Affairs and Social Security of the Maldives, Raashida Yoosuf, told the Assembly that in working towards the Beijing Platform of Action’s goals, most countries had had to face age-old beliefs and practices that perpetuated injustices and continued to give women a subordinate status. A major drawback in assessing the growing menace of violence against women was its invisibility, which was mainly due to the social stigma attached to the victims of abuse. Changing the perceptions of men and women on gender roles was central to all.
The Minister for Social Protection and the Family of Benin, Ramatou Baba-Moussa, said that the involvement of women in decision-making processes was being resisted because traditions and cultural norms prevailed and women themselves did not wish to occupy those positions.
Also addressing the issue, Ernest Petric (Slovenia), said that stereotypes and prejudices regarding the role of women and men in society persisted. In his country, women’s participation in politics remained one of the most visible obstacles. Women's wisdom and talents had not yet been fully recognized and given the appropriate significance and impact.
Urging delegates to recognize that prevailing conditions at the local level, whether social, political or economic, had a direct bearing on the pace at which progress towards the goals of Beijing was made, Princess Basma Bint Talal, Head of the Jordanian National Commission for Women, said the diversity of cultures, religions and interests were factors that must be given due consideration. Rather than diminishing indigenous values and traditions, developing countries would like to see a global vision that fostered harmony instead of discord, and would create an enabling climate for national initiatives to flourish.
The President of the National Union of Eritrean Women, Luul Gebreab, and Movses Abelian (Armenia), drew the Assembly's attention to the fact that women are most vulnerable to the hardships of war or natural disaster. Mr. Abelian said that armed conflict had resulted in some 400,000 refugees moving to Armenia, a large number of them women and children. Refugee women and women in earthquake areas had to carry the burden of everyday life in temporary dwellings with insufficient water and energy. Ms. Gebreab said that the tragic war with neighbouring Ethiopia had deferred hoped for the rapid advancement of Eritrean women and children. In just a matter of weeks, 1.5 million people had been left destitute and women suffered the most.
The Assembly also heard from the Deputy Prime Minister of Albania, Ministers from Algeria, Senegal, Panama, Lesotho, Haiti, the Special Envoy of the President of Uruguay, the Representative of the Prime Minister of Belize, and the Counselor, General People's Congress of Libya.
Also this morning, the Assembly decided to allow representatives from five selected non-governmental organizations to make statements in the debate in the plenary of the special session. Their statements will be limited to five minutes. The five non-governmental organizations are: Women in Law and Development in Africa; Mahila Dakshati Samiti; Canadian Research Institute for the Advancement of Women; Centro de la Mujer Peruana "Flora Tristan"; and Alliance for Arab Women.
The Assembly will meet again at 3 p.m. to continue its general debate and to consider the report of the Ad Hoc Committee of the Whole of the special session.
Assembly Work Programme
The General Assembly met this morning, to continue the general debate of its twenty-third special session, which is reviewing implementation of the Platform for Action adopted at the Fourth World Conference on Women (Beijing, 1995).
Statements
MAKBULE CECO, Deputy Prime Minister of Albania: Measures taken by Albania include the establishment of new governmental structures to achieve gender equality. A Parliamentary subcommittee on women and youth has been established for the promotion of women’s issues. With the Beijing Platform as the foundation for action, the Government has adopted important decisions to implement its goals in the areas of poverty eradication, economic advancement of women, creation of equal opportunities, social promotion and health. Priority attention is devoted to access to medical services.
Today, there are more women in positions of authority in Albania, but the number of women in Parliament is still low. However, public opinion is increasingly aware of the fact that women are capable of succeeding, and worthy of taking positions equal with men. The Constitution, which was approved in 1998, guarantees equal political, economic and social rights for both sexes. It has opened the way for a new legislative framework, which should be in line with Beijing. New codes are being prepared, taking that into account. The family code is being drafted. Since 1991, other legislative reforms have been undertaken, and laws have been introduced regarding interruption of involuntary pregnancy and division of property following divorce. Efforts are being made to inform women about their rights.
Violence within family and society is still a problem, affecting various age groups. There is the need to provide proper social protection of women. One of the priorities is economic empowerment of women. The Stability Pact in the Balkans has been introduced and Albanian women are cooperating with other women in the region to promote peace. The participation of women is indispensable in this process. Civil society, as well as Governmental and non-governmental structures, are aware of the need to promote women’s rights.
Princess BASMA BINT TALAL, head of the National Commission for Women of Jordan: I come from the Arab region, proud of its heritage and culture, rooted in its traditions which reflect the three great monotheistic religions. The dialogue and debate during the last few days is a vibrant reflection of the diversity of hopes and concerns regarding the progress of women from all regional perspectives. Similar to many developing countries, economic and political considerations have been major factors in effecting change in Jordan.
To fully reflect the constitutional equality granted to all Jordanians and to ensure the institutionalization of efforts to improve women’s status, the Jordanian National Commission for Women has been mandated to define general policies related to women, to propose laws as well as amendments to legislation which will remove discrimination against women and to follow up on the implementation of these measures. A tangible improvement has taken place in women’s participation in political and public life. Appointments to higher posts in the executive, the judiciary and the senate all reflect the political will towards implementing the Platform, as well as women’s ability to reach higher decision-making positions.
We should remember that five years is not a long time frame in which to achieve fundamental changes. It is essential that societal understanding and acceptance of change be addressed concurrently with legal reform. While women’s advancement is a globally accepted goal, it should be recognized that prevailing conditions at the local level, whether social, political or economic, have a direct bearing on the pace at which this process evolves. The diversity of our cultures, religions and interests are factors which must be given due consideration. Rather than diminishing our indigenous values and traditions, we in Jordan, as in many developing countries, would like to see a global vision that can foster harmony instead of discord, and create an enabling climate for our national initiatives to flourish.
DJAMEL OULD ABBAS, Minister for National Solidarity of Algeria: Many objectives in favour of women’s equality have not been achieved because of a lack of resources for social development programmes. That factor is particularly true in Africa, where a number of crises, including conflicts and natural disasters, have affected women and other vulnerable groups in society. Despite the limitations, developing countries have been able to achieve a level of progress in the advancement of women’s status. In 1998, at the culmination of their meeting in Algeria, African women reaffirmed their vindication in their respective societies. Consequently, the donor community should honour the commitment they made to accelerate development of the African continent and to other developing countries, particularly alleviating the burden on women in society.
Algeria has achieved results in the education and health sectors, among others required by the Platform for Action. The number of girls now attending school lies at more than 80 per cent and the Government has achieved parity in the attendance of boys and girls in secondary schools, because a greater number of schools have been built. Also, reproductive health services have been improved and the past five years has witnessed the development of women’s movements and their active participation in politics and society. Regrettably, Algerians also have had to face terrorism which has had a severe impact on women, especially in the rural areas. However, the end of terrorism paved the way for women to further participate in decision-making sectors in the country. The Government is basing the dynamics of its improvement in the status of women on solidarity, social security and peace.
AMINATA TALL, Minister for Family Affairs and National Solidarity of Senegal: This session intends to be both critical and forward-looking. Cooperation, dialogue and meaningful solidarity are needed for achieving gender equality. Sustained attention should be given to the problems of women’s access to information and modern technologies, promotion of gender equality and elimination of harmful traditional practices. Also high on the agenda are efforts against maternal mortality and access for poor women from rural and urban areas to the basic services. The key to the liberation of women lies with their education. The World Forum on Education, which was held last month in my country, placed particular stress on this fundamental issue at the heart of our development strategy.
Much more remains to be done as a result of numerous obstructions my country is encountering. Within the framework of its national plan of action for 1997 to 2001, Senegal is striving to strengthen the economic capacities of women, giving high priority to the schooling of girls. Statistics are improving in that respect. The issue of the reproductive health of women is also important, as well as issues of violence against women and rape. Senegal is one of the two countries that have deposited their instruments of ratification of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.
Promotion and protection of women’s rights figures prominently in the Government’s policies. Senegal reaffirms its determination to continue implementing the Platform for Action adopted in Beijing in cooperation with non-governmental organizations and all interested actors both in civil society and the private sector. African women and women from developing countries know well how to rely on our own strength and capacities, yet we need support and solidarity from the international system. The insupportable burden of debt and the problems of globalization make this point even more relevant.
RASHIDA YOOSUF, Minister for Women’s Affairs and Social Security of the Maldives: As in the case of most countries, Maldives, too, had had to face a number of constraints in working towards the Beijing Platform's goals. Age-old beliefs and practices that perpetuate injustices have continued to give women a subordinate status. However, because of the unrelenting efforts of the Government, with the active collaboration of non-governmental organizations, to raise gender awareness among the people, attitudes and perceptions are slowly changing.
One of the greatest obstacles to empowering women is the near absence of structures and resources to broaden women’s economic opportunities and independence. Special credit schemes have been launched to provide women seed money to increase their long-term borrowing power. Efforts are made to encourage women into non-traditional work areas, while awareness is also created on the importance of men’s greater participation in domestic and family life. Public awareness on healthy living, with special emphasis on reproductive health and the reproductive rights of women, has increased. There is a great awareness of HIV/AIDS and a steady increase in the contraceptive prevalence rate.
Maldives is not immune to the growing menace of violence against women. Action is taken to unveil the extent of the problem and the mass media is used to increase awareness of the issue. A major drawback in assessing the extent of the problem is that it is not visible, mainly due to the social stigma attached to the victims of abuse. We need to do much more to eliminate violence against women. One important step would be to further sensitize medical, legal and police personnel, so that timely action can be taken. In the past three years, particular importance has been given to increasing political awareness and legal literacy of women. Numerous workshops have been held and other modes of information dissemination are being used to promote women’s active participation in decision-making and to increase awareness of their civil rights.
A shortage of resources had disabled us in the area of analyzing, planning and monitoring gender-related issues. Gender concerns are better covered in the recently undertaken constitutional and legislative reforms. Government employees are now entitled to a 60-day maternity leave and women can take a period of break from work for breast-feeding their children. Media, too, are becoming more gender sensitive, though progress is slow. Changing the perceptions of men and women on gender roles is central to all. Stronger political will, policies, processes and partnerships to facilitate gender mainstreaming are equally important. Of course, the need for resources cannot be overemphasized.
ALBA TEJADA DE ROLLA, Minister for Youth, Women, Childhood and the Family of Panama: The various commitments that Panama made at Beijing constitute the basis of the legal framework that will legitimize women’s equality, particularly in the family and workplace. The Government has also examined the issue of equal opportunity for disabled persons, as well as a law to eliminate sexist language from schoolbooks. It has created a gender committee, which has undergone training programmes in relevant areas.
Panama's administration is particularly concerned by the issue of violence against women and a law has been passed to regulate violence within the family. Also, special offices have been established for administrative, judicial and police authorities, and shelters have been opened. There have been important breakthroughs in the health sector and an epidemiological centre has been opened especially to monitor pregnant women. The participation of women in the social and economic spheres is reflected in the increase of decision-making positions they hold. The President of Panama is a woman, as are a Supreme Court Justice and head of the legislative assembly.
The National Women’s Council and National Directorate for Women have become the core for implementation of the Platform for Action and an ideal mechanism for developing initiatives for a plan that will empower women in the development process. Some of their activities include training and development, which ensures that the participation of women in comparison to men is growing. Even so, considering the requirements of the Beijing Platform, there are many obstacles because of poverty and shortcomings in the economy. Women’s development is part of the social agenda of the Government, particularly for those living in indigenous communities. Moreover, a general assessment has identified the overall qualitative changes that need to be made, a difficult undertaking because of the influence of cultural traditions.
MATHABISO LEPONO, Minister for Environment, Gender and Youth Affairs of Lesotho: My delegation associates itself with the statement by the representative of Nigeria on behalf of the "Group of 77" developing countries and China. In 1998, the Ministry for Environment, Gender and Youth Affairs was established in Lesotho to coordinate and facilitate all gender issues and promote gender equality. While several obstacles have impeded the attainment of the goals, we have nevertheless made some remarkable achievements. A multi-disciplinary national steering committee of gender works in the country, as well as a human rights unit. Within the framework of the legal reform, the country is reviewing all laws that discriminate on the basis of gender. A commission has been established to conduct an inquiry into land practices and consider the present inheritance system.
Lesotho is one of the least developed countries, and it is giving top priority to poverty alleviation. The main thrust of the country’s action plan in that respect is decentralization of decision-making, resources and planning. A fund for community development was established after extensive consultations with key stakeholders at various levels. In health, the Government hopes to attain universal coverage. Equity and improvement of access to health services are emphasized, as well as gender sensitive strategies for the poor and the disadvantaged. Efforts are being made to decentralize health services, introduce cost effective interventions and reduce disparities between male and female health activities.
A decrease in infant mortality rates has been achieved as a result of immunizations, control of diarrhea and improved access to water and sanitation. Programmes on reproductive health, population and family life education have been initiated with help from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). More women advance to positions of power, despite the fact that women continue to be marginalized at the higher levels of decision-making. Violence against women takes place in Lesotho. Recently there has been an escalation in the number of rape cases and the rate of incest is also high. A number of non-governmental organizations are engaged in counselling and assisting victims of violence, and several Government agencies have programmes of assistance.
Lesotho is currently in the midst of a major reform of the entire education system. The national policy addressing gender issues, however, is encountering some constraints, including the coexistence of the common and customary law systems and inadequate financial, human and material resources. Persisting stereotypes regarding the social roles of men and women are also a problem.
NONIE H. MATHIEU, Minister for the Status and Rights of Women of Haiti: The Beijing World Conference on Women was a turning point in the women’s struggle. It was also a recognition of that struggle. We are here not only to report on measures undertaken in our country, but also to learn from the experiences of the women’s struggle in other countries.
The Haitian Government has embarked upon a global policy for the advancement of women. The Ministry for the Status and Rights of Women, together with civil society, gave priority to six themes from the Beijing Platform for Action, combined in three major areas: the struggle against poverty, standard setting and legislation and awareness and advocacy.
In the struggle against poverty, the Government, together with non-governmental organizations and international organizations, has, despite all kinds of constraints, undertaken action to help families face a large number of problems, for instance the schooling of girls. Prevalence in this is given to women-headed households. The Ministry has set up a national committee for girls in education, doing research on gender-inequality and discrimination in schools. A pilot programme has been set up for micro-credit schemes for women. In the next five years, this programme intends to reach one million women, especially in rural areas. In the subsistence economy, that policy will give hope for a better living environment for women.
In the area of health, a training programme has been elaborated for midwives, which will reduce maternal and infant mortality. The ministry has also encouraged women’s access to family planning information services. Furthermore, there is a health education programme, including reproductive health and HIV/AIDS awareness. In the awareness and advocacy area, campaigns are undertaken through the media in order to eliminate violence against women and achieve equality. These are all ambitious plans and we have only achieved a modest part. In the context of political crises and a declining economy, the Government has been limited in its ability to act. Despite the modest results, however, there is some reason for satisfaction. We bring to this forum the strong determination of the Haitian people, especially women, to struggle for the liberty, dignity and equality of our citizens.
RAMATOU BABA-MOUSSA, Minister for Social Protection and the Family of Benin: In Benin, the need to promote women became a tangible reality after Beijing and the Ministry for Social Protection and the Family was created. Further, a national plan of action was adopted, as well as population policies and a development strategy (1997-2002). A number of bills were also legislated, including one to regulate the voluntary interruption of pregnancy, and others on female mutilation and to exempt girls from paying school fees. Also, since Beijing, the number of illiterate women has decreased. However, because poor women need to work with their men in the fields and in the marketplace in addition to performing their household chores the rate of that decrease has been slow.
The health sector has also undergone some progress, particularly in the area of reproductive health. To that end, projects have been implemented to deal with HIV/AIDS and to give special attention to young girls and their vulnerability to childhood diseases. A hotline is also available to victims of abuse. Women also have increased access to credit through recently established micro-financial institutions. However, they seldom use this recourse, because they are normally overburdened with family tasks, and lack training in managerial skills. Benin will be receiving refugees from all friendly countries in the region and training is being given on situations of conflict.
The involvement of women in decision-making processes is being resisted. Traditions and cultural norms prevail and women themselves do not wish to occupy those positions. The process has been triggered, however, and there are a few women in the public service and in political life. Women are mainly at the head of non-governmental organizations in the country. The Government is also making efforts to strengthen progress in the information and communication sectors. That requires coordination at the ministerial level and other ministers of the Benin Government are convinced that the programme is gaining ground.
ERNEST PETRIC, Chairman of the Delegation (Slovenia) Slovenia has reviewed all relevant laws and integrated several special equality provisions to most parts of new legislation that is being prepared, in accordance with Slovenia’s aspiration to become a member of the European Union. New legal provisions guaranteeing human rights without discrimination on the basis of sex were accompanied by the introduction of measures to alert women to their rights. In the near future, enforcement mechanisms will be introduced by a special act on equal opportunities.
Slovenia attaches great importance to capacity-building for the empowerment of women and gender equality. A governmental inter-sectoral group is responsible for the creation of a mainstreaming policy plan. Several actions to reconcile the professional and family life of women have also been formulated. Strong steps have been taken to confront various forms of violence against women and girls, raise awareness on reproductive health and secure equal opportunities for women and men in the labour market. All of these actions were measured by qualitative and quantitative benchmarking regimes.
Despite progress made, stereotypes and prejudices regarding the role of women and men in society persist. For Slovenia, women’s participation in politics remains one of the most visible obstacles on the road we still have to travel. Although the problem has been addressed several times since the Beijing Conference, representation of women at all levels of political decision-making bodies is till too low. Women's wisdom and talents have not yet been fully recognized and given the appropriate significance and impact. Without this, the goals of equality, peace and development cannot be achieved.
ALBA OSORES DE LANZA (Uruguay): Since the beginning of the twentieth century Uruguay has adopted legislation for the equality of women. Recent examination, however, has revealed that disparities remain. For example, there are differences in wages and the occupation of decision-making positions reflects an inequity in favour of men. Also, although more than half of the female population lives above the poverty line, the situation of women who live under those conditions remains a problem. Violence against women has always been a problem and inequality in the employment sector still needs to be corrected.
The Government sought to encourage change by implementing programmes in education and health, and by developing family-planning initiatives. In 1995, domestic violence was incorporated into the penal code and a bill will shortly be passed to that effect. In the meantime, 13 women’s bureaus have been created to work on gender-specific projects and initiatives. The Government has developed strategies for multilateral institutions and realizes that including a gender perspective in those will ensure that goals for improving women’s status are met. Also, a regional women’s seminar is being coordinated by the National Family Institute of Uruguay.
LUUL GEBREAB, President of the National Union of Eritrean Women: In Eritrea, which has only been independent since 1993, impressive steps have been taken to level the playing field. The National Assembly instituted a quota system reserving 30 per cent of the Assembly seats for women candidates. The nation has embarked upon constitution-making and achieving gender equity, which embraces a number of interconnected issues dealing with constitutional guarantees, family, customary and religious laws, as well as social institutions and keeping up an ongoing dialogue between conflicting members of society.
The policies of the country have been consistent with the internationally-agreed conventions, signed by the State. The national action plan has prioritized education, training, health care, poverty eradication, human rights and the protection of the girl child. For the last decade, the National Union of Eritrean Women has been engaged in ensuring the visibility of gender issues. However, it is not enough to sign laws and assert equal laws under the law. The political will of the Government and the economic resources are needed, as well as the ability to nurture the vision of equality and pursue social justice. Also needed are the requisite peace and stability, which enables women’s issues to be addressed at all levels.
At present, the tragic war with neighbouring Ethiopia has deferred hopes for the rapid advancement of Eritrean women and children. The spectre of famine looms large over both countries. The current situation in the Horn of Africa should prompt us to identify areas that urgently require global attention. As the international tribunals established in the aftermath of Rwanda and Bosnia demonstrated, where there is political will, crimes against humanity in the new millennium will not go unpunished. The world has begun to recognize that women’s rights are human rights and that their violation should not be ignored. However, faith in international law and precedents can be misleading.
It is with great anguish that I inform you that, as the current war between Eritrea and Ethiopia goes on unchecked by key actors on the international arena, so does the spiraling violence on civilians. The indiscriminate killing, plunder, looting and destruction of Eritrean towns and villages has made 1.5 million people destitute in a matter of three weeks. And this crime against the civilian population is still continuing with impunity, as I speak. Women as homemakers suffer the most. Their plight deserves the attention of the international community.
JOAN MUSA (Belize): There have been many significant achievements in the work for the advancement of women in Belize. For example, a women’s agenda was adopted as a crucial part of the political manifesto, which promised to promote their empowerment and legal status. The present Government is aware that they need to take the rapid changes in the global economy into account. Almost a third of Belize’s population is poor and the majority are women. That has been recognized as a challenge. The empowerment must begin with the girl child, providing her the best education, health and other social services.
The issue of family violence has always been a top priority in Belize. A multi-sectoral approach to its cessation includes the training of police officers and other relevant professions. The future success of any developing nation begins with education, both formal and informal. Health is also another important factor. The Government of Belize places emphasis, as part of its preventive strategy, on reproductive health. Human sexuality courses are incorporated in the curricula of schools. Many women are at the heads of their households in Belize and steps have to been taken for their economic empowerment. In 1999, 35 per cent of small business loans went to women.
SALMA ABDULJABBAR (Libya): Despite all the accomplishments, we should still realize that the status of women in many countries has not improved to an extent that fully realizes the decisions made in Beijing. In this context, it is necessary to provide the necessary resources for the fulfillment of the goals internationally agreed upon. The United Nations must multiply its efforts to support the national and international endeavours aimed at all the crucial areas of concern in the Beijing Platform.
Guided by the teachings of the Holy Quran, my country has adopted a number of measures for the advancement of women. We are now party to all international conventions on women. We have also established a national commission entrusted with the follow-up to the decisions adopted at Beijing. New legislation has been promulgated to enforce gender equality. One of the most remarkable gains after the 1995 Conference was the document issued by the Congress of Libya on women’s rights and obligations in society. According to that document, women may exercise authority through Congress and Committees; they must defend their country; they have the right to their children’s and grandchildren’s custody; they enjoy an independent financial status; and they are entitled to social security benefits.
Women in Libya have assumed leading positions. They now enjoy membership in various committees and occupy positions which were previously monopolized by men. Furthermore, women can now travel freely both inside and outside the country and can also represent the country in international and regional meetings and conferences. In order to compensate Libyan women for the deprivation they suffered during the colonialist period, special attention is given to women, particularly in the health and education sectors. Numerous projects have been implemented in order to increase rural women’s capacities. Women also enjoy integrated health services, which have led to a considerable reduction in maternal and infant death rates. Considerable success has been achieved by women in all levels of education.
While proud of our achievements, we must also confess that we have encountered many obstacles. Some of them are vestiges of colonialism, and some have resulted from the unilateral economic sanctions imposed against us by a super-Power for more than two decades, and the unjust sanctions to which Libya fell victim for approximately 10 years. These sanctions have caused most extensive damage to the Libyan people, particularly women.
MOVSES ABELIAN (Armenia): The major task governments face today is the development and pursuit of sound policies and appropriate structural adjustments to meet he challenges of globalization. Globalization has placed new challenges on women’s economic and social rights. Inequality in economic and social rights makes women vulnerable, and exacerbates still further the barriers to being able to participate in public and political life.
Armenian legislation provides for equal rights for women and men and there is hardly need for any drastic legal reform. The real challenge is changing the mentality, bringing both men and women to a point where they realize that the place of the woman in society is far from being limited to her role in the family. The "Basic principles of the plan of action for the improvement of the situation of women in Armenia for 1998-2000" are targeted at wider involvement of women in the different levels of decision-making, assistance to female victims of violence, development of a social network for teenage girls, elaboration of proposals aimed at elimination of unemployment among women and creation of better working conditions for women.
Women are most vulnerable to the hardships of economic crisis, war or natural disaster. Armed conflict has resulted in some 400,000 refugees moving to Armenia, a large number of them women and children. Refugee women and women in earthquake areas still have to carry the burden of everyday life in temporary dwellings with insufficient water and energy. Therefore, we appreciate today’s focus on women uniting for peace. It is especially important that women play a central role in the resolution of conflicts. Peace negotiations and post conflict reconstruction must involve women, both as representatives of the State and of civil society. It is our strong belief that only concerted efforts of the governments and the non-governmental organization community at the national, regional and global level can effectively promote equality, development, peace and prosperity worldwide.
* *** *
Twenty-third Special Session
9 June 2000
9th Meeting (AM)
The special session of the General Assembly -- "Women 2000, Gender Equality, Development and Peace for the Twenty-first Century" -- continued its review of the implementation of the Platform for Action adopted at the Fourth World Conference on Women (Beijing, 1995) this morning, hearing from 15 speakers.
The Minister of Women’s Affairs and Social Security of the Maldives, Raashida Yoosuf, told the Assembly that in working towards the Beijing Platform of Action’s goals, most countries had had to face age-old beliefs and practices that perpetuated injustices and continued to give women a subordinate status. A major drawback in assessing the growing menace of violence against women was its invisibility, which was mainly due to the social stigma attached to the victims of abuse. Changing the perceptions of men and women on gender roles was central to all.
The Minister for Social Protection and the Family of Benin, Ramatou Baba-Moussa, said that the involvement of women in decision-making processes was being resisted because traditions and cultural norms prevailed and women themselves did not wish to occupy those positions.
Also addressing the issue, Ernest Petric (Slovenia), said that stereotypes and prejudices regarding the role of women and men in society persisted. In his country, women’s participation in politics remained one of the most visible obstacles. Women's wisdom and talents had not yet been fully recognized and given the appropriate significance and impact.
Urging delegates to recognize that prevailing conditions at the local level, whether social, political or economic, had a direct bearing on the pace at which progress towards the goals of Beijing was made, Princess Basma Bint Talal, Head of the Jordanian National Commission for Women, said the diversity of cultures, religions and interests were factors that must be given due consideration. Rather than diminishing indigenous values and traditions, developing countries would like to see a global vision that fostered harmony instead of discord, and would create an enabling climate for national initiatives to flourish.
The President of the National Union of Eritrean Women, Luul Gebreab, and Movses Abelian (Armenia), drew the Assembly's attention to the fact that women are most vulnerable to the hardships of war or natural disaster. Mr. Abelian said that armed conflict had resulted in some 400,000 refugees moving to Armenia, a large number of them women and children. Refugee women and women in earthquake areas had to carry the burden of everyday life in temporary dwellings with insufficient water and energy. Ms. Gebreab said that the tragic war with neighbouring Ethiopia had deferred hoped for the rapid advancement of Eritrean women and children. In just a matter of weeks, 1.5 million people had been left destitute and women suffered the most.
The Assembly also heard from the Deputy Prime Minister of Albania, Ministers from Algeria, Senegal, Panama, Lesotho, Haiti, the Special Envoy of the President of Uruguay, the Representative of the Prime Minister of Belize, and the Counselor, General People's Congress of Libya.
Also this morning, the Assembly decided to allow representatives from five selected non-governmental organizations to make statements in the debate in the plenary of the special session. Their statements will be limited to five minutes. The five non-governmental organizations are: Women in Law and Development in Africa; Mahila Dakshati Samiti; Canadian Research Institute for the Advancement of Women; Centro de la Mujer Peruana "Flora Tristan"; and Alliance for Arab Women.
The Assembly will meet again at 3 p.m. to continue its general debate and to consider the report of the Ad Hoc Committee of the Whole of the special session.
Assembly Work Programme
The General Assembly met this morning, to continue the general debate of its twenty-third special session, which is reviewing implementation of the Platform for Action adopted at the Fourth World Conference on Women (Beijing, 1995).
Statements
MAKBULE CECO, Deputy Prime Minister of Albania: Measures taken by Albania include the establishment of new governmental structures to achieve gender equality. A Parliamentary subcommittee on women and youth has been established for the promotion of women’s issues. With the Beijing Platform as the foundation for action, the Government has adopted important decisions to implement its goals in the areas of poverty eradication, economic advancement of women, creation of equal opportunities, social promotion and health. Priority attention is devoted to access to medical services.
Today, there are more women in positions of authority in Albania, but the number of women in Parliament is still low. However, public opinion is increasingly aware of the fact that women are capable of succeeding, and worthy of taking positions equal with men. The Constitution, which was approved in 1998, guarantees equal political, economic and social rights for both sexes. It has opened the way for a new legislative framework, which should be in line with Beijing. New codes are being prepared, taking that into account. The family code is being drafted. Since 1991, other legislative reforms have been undertaken, and laws have been introduced regarding interruption of involuntary pregnancy and division of property following divorce. Efforts are being made to inform women about their rights.
Violence within family and society is still a problem, affecting various age groups. There is the need to provide proper social protection of women. One of the priorities is economic empowerment of women. The Stability Pact in the Balkans has been introduced and Albanian women are cooperating with other women in the region to promote peace. The participation of women is indispensable in this process. Civil society, as well as Governmental and non-governmental structures, are aware of the need to promote women’s rights.
Princess BASMA BINT TALAL, head of the National Commission for Women of Jordan: I come from the Arab region, proud of its heritage and culture, rooted in its traditions which reflect the three great monotheistic religions. The dialogue and debate during the last few days is a vibrant reflection of the diversity of hopes and concerns regarding the progress of women from all regional perspectives. Similar to many developing countries, economic and political considerations have been major factors in effecting change in Jordan.
To fully reflect the constitutional equality granted to all Jordanians and to ensure the institutionalization of efforts to improve women’s status, the Jordanian National Commission for Women has been mandated to define general policies related to women, to propose laws as well as amendments to legislation which will remove discrimination against women and to follow up on the implementation of these measures. A tangible improvement has taken place in women’s participation in political and public life. Appointments to higher posts in the executive, the judiciary and the senate all reflect the political will towards implementing the Platform, as well as women’s ability to reach higher decision-making positions.
We should remember that five years is not a long time frame in which to achieve fundamental changes. It is essential that societal understanding and acceptance of change be addressed concurrently with legal reform. While women’s advancement is a globally accepted goal, it should be recognized that prevailing conditions at the local level, whether social, political or economic, have a direct bearing on the pace at which this process evolves. The diversity of our cultures, religions and interests are factors which must be given due consideration. Rather than diminishing our indigenous values and traditions, we in Jordan, as in many developing countries, would like to see a global vision that can foster harmony instead of discord, and create an enabling climate for our national initiatives to flourish.
DJAMEL OULD ABBAS, Minister for National Solidarity of Algeria: Many objectives in favour of women’s equality have not been achieved because of a lack of resources for social development programmes. That factor is particularly true in Africa, where a number of crises, including conflicts and natural disasters, have affected women and other vulnerable groups in society. Despite the limitations, developing countries have been able to achieve a level of progress in the advancement of women’s status. In 1998, at the culmination of their meeting in Algeria, African women reaffirmed their vindication in their respective societies. Consequently, the donor community should honour the commitment they made to accelerate development of the African continent and to other developing countries, particularly alleviating the burden on women in society.
Algeria has achieved results in the education and health sectors, among others required by the Platform for Action. The number of girls now attending school lies at more than 80 per cent and the Government has achieved parity in the attendance of boys and girls in secondary schools, because a greater number of schools have been built. Also, reproductive health services have been improved and the past five years has witnessed the development of women’s movements and their active participation in politics and society. Regrettably, Algerians also have had to face terrorism which has had a severe impact on women, especially in the rural areas. However, the end of terrorism paved the way for women to further participate in decision-making sectors in the country. The Government is basing the dynamics of its improvement in the status of women on solidarity, social security and peace.
AMINATA TALL, Minister for Family Affairs and National Solidarity of Senegal: This session intends to be both critical and forward-looking. Cooperation, dialogue and meaningful solidarity are needed for achieving gender equality. Sustained attention should be given to the problems of women’s access to information and modern technologies, promotion of gender equality and elimination of harmful traditional practices. Also high on the agenda are efforts against maternal mortality and access for poor women from rural and urban areas to the basic services. The key to the liberation of women lies with their education. The World Forum on Education, which was held last month in my country, placed particular stress on this fundamental issue at the heart of our development strategy.
Much more remains to be done as a result of numerous obstructions my country is encountering. Within the framework of its national plan of action for 1997 to 2001, Senegal is striving to strengthen the economic capacities of women, giving high priority to the schooling of girls. Statistics are improving in that respect. The issue of the reproductive health of women is also important, as well as issues of violence against women and rape. Senegal is one of the two countries that have deposited their instruments of ratification of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.
Promotion and protection of women’s rights figures prominently in the Government’s policies. Senegal reaffirms its determination to continue implementing the Platform for Action adopted in Beijing in cooperation with non-governmental organizations and all interested actors both in civil society and the private sector. African women and women from developing countries know well how to rely on our own strength and capacities, yet we need support and solidarity from the international system. The insupportable burden of debt and the problems of globalization make this point even more relevant.
RASHIDA YOOSUF, Minister for Women’s Affairs and Social Security of the Maldives: As in the case of most countries, Maldives, too, had had to face a number of constraints in working towards the Beijing Platform's goals. Age-old beliefs and practices that perpetuate injustices have continued to give women a subordinate status. However, because of the unrelenting efforts of the Government, with the active collaboration of non-governmental organizations, to raise gender awareness among the people, attitudes and perceptions are slowly changing.
One of the greatest obstacles to empowering women is the near absence of structures and resources to broaden women’s economic opportunities and independence. Special credit schemes have been launched to provide women seed money to increase their long-term borrowing power. Efforts are made to encourage women into non-traditional work areas, while awareness is also created on the importance of men’s greater participation in domestic and family life. Public awareness on healthy living, with special emphasis on reproductive health and the reproductive rights of women, has increased. There is a great awareness of HIV/AIDS and a steady increase in the contraceptive prevalence rate.
Maldives is not immune to the growing menace of violence against women. Action is taken to unveil the extent of the problem and the mass media is used to increase awareness of the issue. A major drawback in assessing the extent of the problem is that it is not visible, mainly due to the social stigma attached to the victims of abuse. We need to do much more to eliminate violence against women. One important step would be to further sensitize medical, legal and police personnel, so that timely action can be taken. In the past three years, particular importance has been given to increasing political awareness and legal literacy of women. Numerous workshops have been held and other modes of information dissemination are being used to promote women’s active participation in decision-making and to increase awareness of their civil rights.
A shortage of resources had disabled us in the area of analyzing, planning and monitoring gender-related issues. Gender concerns are better covered in the recently undertaken constitutional and legislative reforms. Government employees are now entitled to a 60-day maternity leave and women can take a period of break from work for breast-feeding their children. Media, too, are becoming more gender sensitive, though progress is slow. Changing the perceptions of men and women on gender roles is central to all. Stronger political will, policies, processes and partnerships to facilitate gender mainstreaming are equally important. Of course, the need for resources cannot be overemphasized.
ALBA TEJADA DE ROLLA, Minister for Youth, Women, Childhood and the Family of Panama: The various commitments that Panama made at Beijing constitute the basis of the legal framework that will legitimize women’s equality, particularly in the family and workplace. The Government has also examined the issue of equal opportunity for disabled persons, as well as a law to eliminate sexist language from schoolbooks. It has created a gender committee, which has undergone training programmes in relevant areas.
Panama's administration is particularly concerned by the issue of violence against women and a law has been passed to regulate violence within the family. Also, special offices have been established for administrative, judicial and police authorities, and shelters have been opened. There have been important breakthroughs in the health sector and an epidemiological centre has been opened especially to monitor pregnant women. The participation of women in the social and economic spheres is reflected in the increase of decision-making positions they hold. The President of Panama is a woman, as are a Supreme Court Justice and head of the legislative assembly.
The National Women’s Council and National Directorate for Women have become the core for implementation of the Platform for Action and an ideal mechanism for developing initiatives for a plan that will empower women in the development process. Some of their activities include training and development, which ensures that the participation of women in comparison to men is growing. Even so, considering the requirements of the Beijing Platform, there are many obstacles because of poverty and shortcomings in the economy. Women’s development is part of the social agenda of the Government, particularly for those living in indigenous communities. Moreover, a general assessment has identified the overall qualitative changes that need to be made, a difficult undertaking because of the influence of cultural traditions.
MATHABISO LEPONO, Minister for Environment, Gender and Youth Affairs of Lesotho: My delegation associates itself with the statement by the representative of Nigeria on behalf of the "Group of 77" developing countries and China. In 1998, the Ministry for Environment, Gender and Youth Affairs was established in Lesotho to coordinate and facilitate all gender issues and promote gender equality. While several obstacles have impeded the attainment of the goals, we have nevertheless made some remarkable achievements. A multi-disciplinary national steering committee of gender works in the country, as well as a human rights unit. Within the framework of the legal reform, the country is reviewing all laws that discriminate on the basis of gender. A commission has been established to conduct an inquiry into land practices and consider the present inheritance system.
Lesotho is one of the least developed countries, and it is giving top priority to poverty alleviation. The main thrust of the country’s action plan in that respect is decentralization of decision-making, resources and planning. A fund for community development was established after extensive consultations with key stakeholders at various levels. In health, the Government hopes to attain universal coverage. Equity and improvement of access to health services are emphasized, as well as gender sensitive strategies for the poor and the disadvantaged. Efforts are being made to decentralize health services, introduce cost effective interventions and reduce disparities between male and female health activities.
A decrease in infant mortality rates has been achieved as a result of immunizations, control of diarrhea and improved access to water and sanitation. Programmes on reproductive health, population and family life education have been initiated with help from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). More women advance to positions of power, despite the fact that women continue to be marginalized at the higher levels of decision-making. Violence against women takes place in Lesotho. Recently there has been an escalation in the number of rape cases and the rate of incest is also high. A number of non-governmental organizations are engaged in counselling and assisting victims of violence, and several Government agencies have programmes of assistance.
Lesotho is currently in the midst of a major reform of the entire education system. The national policy addressing gender issues, however, is encountering some constraints, including the coexistence of the common and customary law systems and inadequate financial, human and material resources. Persisting stereotypes regarding the social roles of men and women are also a problem.
NONIE H. MATHIEU, Minister for the Status and Rights of Women of Haiti: The Beijing World Conference on Women was a turning point in the women’s struggle. It was also a recognition of that struggle. We are here not only to report on measures undertaken in our country, but also to learn from the experiences of the women’s struggle in other countries.
The Haitian Government has embarked upon a global policy for the advancement of women. The Ministry for the Status and Rights of Women, together with civil society, gave priority to six themes from the Beijing Platform for Action, combined in three major areas: the struggle against poverty, standard setting and legislation and awareness and advocacy.
In the struggle against poverty, the Government, together with non-governmental organizations and international organizations, has, despite all kinds of constraints, undertaken action to help families face a large number of problems, for instance the schooling of girls. Prevalence in this is given to women-headed households. The Ministry has set up a national committee for girls in education, doing research on gender-inequality and discrimination in schools. A pilot programme has been set up for micro-credit schemes for women. In the next five years, this programme intends to reach one million women, especially in rural areas. In the subsistence economy, that policy will give hope for a better living environment for women.
In the area of health, a training programme has been elaborated for midwives, which will reduce maternal and infant mortality. The ministry has also encouraged women’s access to family planning information services. Furthermore, there is a health education programme, including reproductive health and HIV/AIDS awareness. In the awareness and advocacy area, campaigns are undertaken through the media in order to eliminate violence against women and achieve equality. These are all ambitious plans and we have only achieved a modest part. In the context of political crises and a declining economy, the Government has been limited in its ability to act. Despite the modest results, however, there is some reason for satisfaction. We bring to this forum the strong determination of the Haitian people, especially women, to struggle for the liberty, dignity and equality of our citizens.
RAMATOU BABA-MOUSSA, Minister for Social Protection and the Family of Benin: In Benin, the need to promote women became a tangible reality after Beijing and the Ministry for Social Protection and the Family was created. Further, a national plan of action was adopted, as well as population policies and a development strategy (1997-2002). A number of bills were also legislated, including one to regulate the voluntary interruption of pregnancy, and others on female mutilation and to exempt girls from paying school fees. Also, since Beijing, the number of illiterate women has decreased. However, because poor women need to work with their men in the fields and in the marketplace in addition to performing their household chores the rate of that decrease has been slow.
The health sector has also undergone some progress, particularly in the area of reproductive health. To that end, projects have been implemented to deal with HIV/AIDS and to give special attention to young girls and their vulnerability to childhood diseases. A hotline is also available to victims of abuse. Women also have increased access to credit through recently established micro-financial institutions. However, they seldom use this recourse, because they are normally overburdened with family tasks, and lack training in managerial skills. Benin will be receiving refugees from all friendly countries in the region and training is being given on situations of conflict.
The involvement of women in decision-making processes is being resisted. Traditions and cultural norms prevail and women themselves do not wish to occupy those positions. The process has been triggered, however, and there are a few women in the public service and in political life. Women are mainly at the head of non-governmental organizations in the country. The Government is also making efforts to strengthen progress in the information and communication sectors. That requires coordination at the ministerial level and other ministers of the Benin Government are convinced that the programme is gaining ground.
ERNEST PETRIC, Chairman of the Delegation (Slovenia) Slovenia has reviewed all relevant laws and integrated several special equality provisions to most parts of new legislation that is being prepared, in accordance with Slovenia’s aspiration to become a member of the European Union. New legal provisions guaranteeing human rights without discrimination on the basis of sex were accompanied by the introduction of measures to alert women to their rights. In the near future, enforcement mechanisms will be introduced by a special act on equal opportunities.
Slovenia attaches great importance to capacity-building for the empowerment of women and gender equality. A governmental inter-sectoral group is responsible for the creation of a mainstreaming policy plan. Several actions to reconcile the professional and family life of women have also been formulated. Strong steps have been taken to confront various forms of violence against women and girls, raise awareness on reproductive health and secure equal opportunities for women and men in the labour market. All of these actions were measured by qualitative and quantitative benchmarking regimes.
Despite progress made, stereotypes and prejudices regarding the role of women and men in society persist. For Slovenia, women’s participation in politics remains one of the most visible obstacles on the road we still have to travel. Although the problem has been addressed several times since the Beijing Conference, representation of women at all levels of political decision-making bodies is till too low. Women's wisdom and talents have not yet been fully recognized and given the appropriate significance and impact. Without this, the goals of equality, peace and development cannot be achieved.
ALBA OSORES DE LANZA (Uruguay): Since the beginning of the twentieth century Uruguay has adopted legislation for the equality of women. Recent examination, however, has revealed that disparities remain. For example, there are differences in wages and the occupation of decision-making positions reflects an inequity in favour of men. Also, although more than half of the female population lives above the poverty line, the situation of women who live under those conditions remains a problem. Violence against women has always been a problem and inequality in the employment sector still needs to be corrected.
The Government sought to encourage change by implementing programmes in education and health, and by developing family-planning initiatives. In 1995, domestic violence was incorporated into the penal code and a bill will shortly be passed to that effect. In the meantime, 13 women’s bureaus have been created to work on gender-specific projects and initiatives. The Government has developed strategies for multilateral institutions and realizes that including a gender perspective in those will ensure that goals for improving women’s status are met. Also, a regional women’s seminar is being coordinated by the National Family Institute of Uruguay.
LUUL GEBREAB, President of the National Union of Eritrean Women: In Eritrea, which has only been independent since 1993, impressive steps have been taken to level the playing field. The National Assembly instituted a quota system reserving 30 per cent of the Assembly seats for women candidates. The nation has embarked upon constitution-making and achieving gender equity, which embraces a number of interconnected issues dealing with constitutional guarantees, family, customary and religious laws, as well as social institutions and keeping up an ongoing dialogue between conflicting members of society.
The policies of the country have been consistent with the internationally-agreed conventions, signed by the State. The national action plan has prioritized education, training, health care, poverty eradication, human rights and the protection of the girl child. For the last decade, the National Union of Eritrean Women has been engaged in ensuring the visibility of gender issues. However, it is not enough to sign laws and assert equal laws under the law. The political will of the Government and the economic resources are needed, as well as the ability to nurture the vision of equality and pursue social justice. Also needed are the requisite peace and stability, which enables women’s issues to be addressed at all levels.
At present, the tragic war with neighbouring Ethiopia has deferred hopes for the rapid advancement of Eritrean women and children. The spectre of famine looms large over both countries. The current situation in the Horn of Africa should prompt us to identify areas that urgently require global attention. As the international tribunals established in the aftermath of Rwanda and Bosnia demonstrated, where there is political will, crimes against humanity in the new millennium will not go unpunished. The world has begun to recognize that women’s rights are human rights and that their violation should not be ignored. However, faith in international law and precedents can be misleading.
It is with great anguish that I inform you that, as the current war between Eritrea and Ethiopia goes on unchecked by key actors on the international arena, so does the spiraling violence on civilians. The indiscriminate killing, plunder, looting and destruction of Eritrean towns and villages has made 1.5 million people destitute in a matter of three weeks. And this crime against the civilian population is still continuing with impunity, as I speak. Women as homemakers suffer the most. Their plight deserves the attention of the international community.
JOAN MUSA (Belize): There have been many significant achievements in the work for the advancement of women in Belize. For example, a women’s agenda was adopted as a crucial part of the political manifesto, which promised to promote their empowerment and legal status. The present Government is aware that they need to take the rapid changes in the global economy into account. Almost a third of Belize’s population is poor and the majority are women. That has been recognized as a challenge. The empowerment must begin with the girl child, providing her the best education, health and other social services.
The issue of family violence has always been a top priority in Belize. A multi-sectoral approach to its cessation includes the training of police officers and other relevant professions. The future success of any developing nation begins with education, both formal and informal. Health is also another important factor. The Government of Belize places emphasis, as part of its preventive strategy, on reproductive health. Human sexuality courses are incorporated in the curricula of schools. Many women are at the heads of their households in Belize and steps have to been taken for their economic empowerment. In 1999, 35 per cent of small business loans went to women.
SALMA ABDULJABBAR (Libya): Despite all the accomplishments, we should still realize that the status of women in many countries has not improved to an extent that fully realizes the decisions made in Beijing. In this context, it is necessary to provide the necessary resources for the fulfillment of the goals internationally agreed upon. The United Nations must multiply its efforts to support the national and international endeavours aimed at all the crucial areas of concern in the Beijing Platform.
Guided by the teachings of the Holy Quran, my country has adopted a number of measures for the advancement of women. We are now party to all international conventions on women. We have also established a national commission entrusted with the follow-up to the decisions adopted at Beijing. New legislation has been promulgated to enforce gender equality. One of the most remarkable gains after the 1995 Conference was the document issued by the Congress of Libya on women’s rights and obligations in society. According to that document, women may exercise authority through Congress and Committees; they must defend their country; they have the right to their children’s and grandchildren’s custody; they enjoy an independent financial status; and they are entitled to social security benefits.
Women in Libya have assumed leading positions. They now enjoy membership in various committees and occupy positions which were previously monopolized by men. Furthermore, women can now travel freely both inside and outside the country and can also represent the country in international and regional meetings and conferences. In order to compensate Libyan women for the deprivation they suffered during the colonialist period, special attention is given to women, particularly in the health and education sectors. Numerous projects have been implemented in order to increase rural women’s capacities. Women also enjoy integrated health services, which have led to a considerable reduction in maternal and infant death rates. Considerable success has been achieved by women in all levels of education.
While proud of our achievements, we must also confess that we have encountered many obstacles. Some of them are vestiges of colonialism, and some have resulted from the unilateral economic sanctions imposed against us by a super-Power for more than two decades, and the unjust sanctions to which Libya fell victim for approximately 10 years. These sanctions have caused most extensive damage to the Libyan people, particularly women.
MOVSES ABELIAN (Armenia): The major task governments face today is the development and pursuit of sound policies and appropriate structural adjustments to meet he challenges of globalization. Globalization has placed new challenges on women’s economic and social rights. Inequality in economic and social rights makes women vulnerable, and exacerbates still further the barriers to being able to participate in public and political life.
Armenian legislation provides for equal rights for women and men and there is hardly need for any drastic legal reform. The real challenge is changing the mentality, bringing both men and women to a point where they realize that the place of the woman in society is far from being limited to her role in the family. The "Basic principles of the plan of action for the improvement of the situation of women in Armenia for 1998-2000" are targeted at wider involvement of women in the different levels of decision-making, assistance to female victims of violence, development of a social network for teenage girls, elaboration of proposals aimed at elimination of unemployment among women and creation of better working conditions for women.
Women are most vulnerable to the hardships of economic crisis, war or natural disaster. Armed conflict has resulted in some 400,000 refugees moving to Armenia, a large number of them women and children. Refugee women and women in earthquake areas still have to carry the burden of everyday life in temporary dwellings with insufficient water and energy. Therefore, we appreciate today’s focus on women uniting for peace. It is especially important that women play a central role in the resolution of conflicts. Peace negotiations and post conflict reconstruction must involve women, both as representatives of the State and of civil society. It is our strong belief that only concerted efforts of the governments and the non-governmental organization community at the national, regional and global level can effectively promote equality, development, peace and prosperity worldwide.
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