HRC51 - NB8 statement - Annual Discussion on Integration of a Gender Perspective

Human Rights Council – 51st session

Item 4 - Annual Discussion on Integration of a Gender Perspective

Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Lithuania

26 September 2022

Mr President,

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Lithuania.

The right to freedom of opinion and expression for all people, irrespective of their sex or gender identity, are characteristic of true democracies. They are crucial for maintaining peace and achieving sustainable development. Despite the impressive and inspirational gains made by women and girls, as well as people with diverse gender identities, expression and opinion are still not equally free and protected for all of us.

Cultural norms, gender stereotypes and ensuing discrimination online and offline continue to suppress, censor and mute women and girls’ voices. Unfortunately, women activists, politicians, human rights defenders, journalists and media workers are disproportionately targeted by State and non-State actors, including hate speech, bullying and acts of violence.

Discriminatory laws, policies and practises continue enabling additional challenges for women and girls and people with diverse gender identities, disregarding their particular needs. Lack of gender perspective hinders meaningful participation of half of the population in decision making and creation of sustainable future, adding additional obstacles to an already demanding path towards gender equality.

Mr. President, we would like to ask the panellists, how State and private actors could provide the necessary support for freedom of opinion and expression for all genders and an integrated gender perspective throughout the work of the Human Rights Council?