UK’s Insight on Draft Resolution Tackling Child, Early, and Forced Marriage at UN Human Rights Council 62

Thank you, Mr President,

Child, early, and forced marriage represents a detrimental practice and a form of gender-based violence. The United Kingdom remains committed to initiatives aimed at addressing the root causes of this issue, which include discriminatory social norms, gender inequality, and violence directed at women and girls.

Appreciating Collaborative Efforts

In this context, we extend our gratitude to the core group, particularly Switzerland, which has taken the lead in advancing this resolution. The UK previously endorsed the request for the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) to develop guidelines aimed at preventing and addressing child, early, and forced marriage. We fully support the core group’s call for the implementation of these important guidelines.

The core group has engaged in an open, transparent, and comprehensive process that has taken into account a wide range of perspectives. We commend this inclusive approach and applaud their efforts in delivering a robust text that emphasises tangible impact. Education, empowerment, and the promotion of the rights, agency, and autonomy of women and girls are indeed central to the mission of preventing and eradicating child, early, and forced marriage.

Concerns Over Proposed Amendments

We are disappointed by the introduction of several amendments aimed at challenging established human rights language concerning comprehensive sexuality education, sexual and reproductive health and rights, bodily autonomy, and violence. These principles are firmly rooted in existing international commitments. Any attempts to alter or redefine this language could jeopardise the resolution’s objectives and dilute protections for women and girls.

Mr President,

The United Kingdom has co-sponsored this draft resolution. We strongly encourage all members of the Council to join us in unreservedly supporting this initiative and to reject the proposed amendments.

Thank you.