UK’s Insightful Contribution to UN Human Rights Council’s Draft Resolution on Women in Humanitarian Settings

Thank you, Mr President.

We take this opportunity to acknowledge Colombia’s role as penholder during these challenging times and to pay tribute to the memory of Ambassador Gustavo Gallon.

The United Kingdom is pleased to align with the consensus on this significant resolution and extends its gratitude to the Core Group for their exemplary leadership throughout the negotiation process.

Addressing Growing Humanitarian Needs

As humanitarian needs continue to escalate in both scale and complexity, it is crucial to recognise that women and girls are disproportionately affected by conflict, displacement, disasters, and other crises. This resolution places the protection, participation, and leadership of women and girls at the forefront of humanitarian responses, reinforcing the necessity of a comprehensive, human rights-based approach.

We particularly appreciate the references made to the prevention and response to gender-based violence. The consequences of conflict-related sexual violence are devastating for survivors, their families, and their communities. Efforts to prevent such crimes, support the survivors, and ensure that perpetrators face justice must remain central to initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable peace and security.

Ensuring Access to Essential Healthcare

The resolution also underscores the critical importance of ensuring uninterrupted and non-discriminatory access to healthcare services. This includes essential sexual and reproductive health services, maternal healthcare, and mental health and psychosocial support. These services are vital for safeguarding the dignity, health, and wellbeing of women and girls in crisis situations.

Equally significant is the resolution’s emphasis on the meaningful participation and leadership of women and girls, including those from women-led organisations, in humanitarian preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. It is imperative that women and girls have the opportunity to influence the decisions that affect their lives and the communities they belong to.

The United Kingdom’s Commitment

The United Kingdom stands proud in its support for this resolution, recognising its potential to effect meaningful change in the lives of those most affected by humanitarian crises.

Thank you.