HRC52 - NB8 statement - Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food

Item 3: Interactive Dialogue on the report of Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food

Nordic-Baltic statement delivered by Norway

8 March 2023

Mr. President,

The Nordic-Baltic countries thank the Special Rapporteur for an enlightening report on conflict and right to food.

Conflict remains the primary driver for food insecurity and thus represents the main hindrance for fulfillment of the right to food.

Keeping in mind that today is 8 March, we express our appreciation for Mr. Fakhri’s focus on discrimination and equality in the food systems.

Women and girls are food producers, traders, consumers, care-takers, decision-makers and negotiators. Protecting women and girls from violence, including sexual and gender-based violence, is crucial to eliminating hunger. In many households, food insecurity and poverty prevail when women are hurt.

We need targeted measures to strengthen women, including rural and Indigenous women and girls and other vulnerable groups’ position in the food systems.

Special Rapporteur, the Russian war of aggression in Ukraine has led to disruption of global food markets and aggravated hunger and famines in other regions.

In your view, what are the most serious consequences facing women in particular? And what would be the most pertinent measures?

Special Rapporteur, your role and voice is more important than ever.

Thank you.