17th plenary meeting - Commission on the Status of Women, Seventieth session (CSW70) - 1) Introduction of draft proposals. 2) Closure of the CSW70. 3) Opening of the CSW71

Good morning, everyone. I call to order the 70th meeting of the 70th session of the Commission on the Status of Women. I now invite the Commission to continue its consideration of sub-item 8i of agenda item 3 in order to hear explanations of position or statements in connection with the agreed conclusions, issue as E/CN/6/2026/L.2. The statements in connection with the agreed conclusions will be limited to two minutes. Does any member of the Commission wish to make a general statement, or member wish to make an explanation of vote after the vote? I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Canada.

Thank you, Madam Chair. My timing was perfect. I am pleased to deliver this statement on behalf of mountains, Australia, New Zealand, Norway, Iceland, and Canada. The Commission on Status of Women has always been a space where difficult conversations are navigated through dialogue, compromise, and respect for established practice. This year, however, We witnessed attempts to reopen issues already exhaustively negotiated, and now a resolution presented that seeks to redefine agreed language outside of the negotiation process altogether. Such approaches undermine the integrity of the commission, weakens our ability to reach balanced outcomes, and risk setting precedents that could have an impact across the UN system. When we erode established norms or reopen agreed language, we do not only disrupt multilateralism, we jeopardize the protection and commitments that women and girls rely on in their daily lives. The CSW strength lies in the consensus building role and its careful stewardship of norms and that have guided global progress on gender equality through time. We must protect that role. At the same time, we want to reaffirm what brought us here.

I thank Canada on behalf of the mountains. May I remind delegations that the explanations are two minutes only. I now give the floor to the distinguished delegation of Uruguay, followed by Nigeria.

Madam Chair, Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, I'd like to begin by recognizing and thanking the co-facilitators for their hard work. And of course, you, Madam Chair, for many weeks, right up until the last minute, trying to agree on consensus. Regrettably, for the first time, it has been necessary to submit this very important document to a vote, despite the investment of time and flexibility and effort. Uruguay would have liked to see an even more ambitious document that recognized women in all of their diversity, with emphasis on the many different and intersecting forms of discrimination that women and girls all over the world suffer. And very often these are barriers for their effective access to justice, which is the main topic this year. Nevertheless, Uruguay is committed to multilateralism and the quest for consensus. As such, we understand that there can be no agreement without a certain degree of flexibility, and it's not always possible to achieve results that fully satisfy all parties, but we have participation in good faith. We regret the submission of a new resolution that seeks to introduce a restrictive understanding of gender which does not enjoy international consensus and that has not been subject to an intergovernmental negotiating process. This represents a procedural issue because of the absence of negotiations or inclusive consultative deliberations with all member states. And ultimately, the document proposed contradicts existing understandings of gender in various regional and national jurisdictions. Uruguay reaffirms its commitment to the Beijing Declaration, gender equality, and the empowerment of all women and girls in all of their diversity. We do not support any initiative that discrimination or a backsliding in terms of progress with human rights the micro

is been cut off

I think the distinguished representative of the Republic of paraguay of Nigeria

Thank you, Madam Chair. Let me at the outset underscore that Nigeria's unwavering commitment to safeguarding and promoting the rights and well-being of every woman and girl has been exemplary and a top priority. This conviction also led to Nigeria voting in favour of the agreed conclusions of the CSW70. However, the manner in which the CSW70 document was adopted raises concerns regarding the legitimacy and integrity of the purpose. We are also concerned about the CSW70 negotiations' departure from previously agreed language under internationally endorsed frameworks. Madam Chair, for the record, Nigeria does not align with the introduction of new or expanded terminology that may give rise to controversial interpretations or create obligations beyond those contained in globally agreed frameworks. In this regard, Nigeria dissociates itself from the inclusion of certain terms and references, including multiple and intersectional forms of discrimination, gender stereotypes, all forms of discrimination, universal access to sexual and reproductive health, diverse situations, contexts and conditions, and reference to gender responsive in this context of budgeting for justice mechanisms. Nigeria further reiterates that the interpretation and application of terms in the must remain consistent with national laws, culture, religion, and values, and should reflect the understanding of natural gender categories. I thank you, Madam Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Nigeria for his statement, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Pakistan.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Pakistan reaffirms its steadfast commitment to the promotion and protection of rights of women and girls in line with our constitutional, national laws, policies, and international obligation. It is in this spirit that we voted in favor of the agreed conclusion. At the same time, we wish to place on record certain reservations regarding elements in the text, particularly relating to gender, sexual, and reproductive rights and prescriptive provisions. These shall be interpreted and implemented in accordance with our national policies, cultural and religious context. Madam Chair, we express our serious concern that for the first time in its history, the Commission has adopted its agreed conclusion through a recorded vote, marking a departure from its long-standing tradition of consensus. Consensus is not merely a procedural question. It underpins the Commission's legitimacy, impact and credibility. When it is broken, the outcome may remain a text, but does not support and enjoy the the aspirations of the entire membership of the United Nations. In line with the established practices, we supported differing adoption until the final meeting to allow space for consensus. Regrettably, this opportunity was not availed. We therefore believe that procedural concerns arising from this experience should be addressed in future discussions on the methods of work of the Commission to preserve consensus in future. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Pakistan for her statement.

I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Argentina.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Argentina wishes to highlight the salience of the CSW as a key area for debating the women agenda in light of the many challenges to overcome. We maintain a constructive and positive attitude, and we regret that for the first time it's not been possible to achieve a conclusion, an agreed conclusion that is enjoyed consensus as historically has been the case. As regards the adoption by vote, Argentina dissociates itself from references to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights. And civil society financing with potential conflicts of interest in the also in the paragraph and relating to disinformation, misinformation, hate speech. We also express our concern about significant omissions. Mother and maternity. Argentina interprets the term gender in accordance with Article 7.3 of the Rome Statute, which refers to men and women in the context of society. As regards the 2030 Agenda, this represents a non-binding aspirational framework and its implementation must respect the sovereign right of every state to interpret and pursue these objectives in accordance with their national legislation, national priorities and their own development strategy. We trust that in future years we will work on common ground and leave divisive agendas to one side and achieve consensus with flexibility and room for the necessary debate. In this way, we can achieve a truly agreed document that takes into consideration all of the concerns of all Member States, and we can continue working for the benefit of the women and girls of the world.

I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Argentina for that statement.

The representative of Mali, followed by Tunisia.

Gracias, Senora.

Thank you, Madam Chair.

President.

Chair.

To commend your work, the hard work made by you and the Bureau from French. Regarding the agreed conclusion, Mali will later reserve the following. So in French, it should be the result, the conference, the program, the conference.

And the action, teenagers. and adolescents, the multiple intersectional forms of discrimination, and all references to the definition of women. Interpretation of this topic are often not nationally recognized and conflict with our laws. Access to sexual reproductive health care and maternal rights are governed by the relevant Malian laws. And paragraph 9 of the Beijing Programme of Action, my delegation reserves the right to interpret and implement these provisions in keeping with our laws and development priorities, as well as our cultural and social values in accordance with universal human rights. This does not in any way bind my country, Mali. Thank you, and I'd like this declaration to be included in the meeting notes. Thank you.

Thank you, Geneva. I now give the floor to the Senior Representative of Tunisia, followed by Cuba.

Thank you very much, Madam Chair, to you and your entire team for the incredible work that you've undertaken this year.

I entered the CSW negotiations this year with powerful members, telling a story of success and progress, and showing the determination and perseverance of women of my country. In the national exam of diplomacy, 40 out of 50 new diplomats are women. In the latest graduation of the Higher Institute of Magistracy, 73% of new judges are women, which means that in the years to come, Tunisia will be represented abroad by more women than men, and that justice will be delivered by women. In Tunisia, we really appreciate the efforts made by UN Women and by the team of the Bureau this year. And we have to remember that sitting in this room is a responsibility and speaking is a responsibility, is a privilege. And as we speak now, many women are already at work in fields, in factories, in hospitals, in classrooms. Many of them are still fighting battles they never chose. women are facing injustice and war and are being abused and displaced. And many of them probably have never heard about a body called the United Nations, yet everything we decide here must serve them and help bring them justice. Let's continue pushing forward. Let's continue making progress. But let's also take a moment to celebrate our agreed conclusions and how far we have come, because at the end of the day, who runs the world?

I thank the distinguished representative of Tunisia for her statement.

I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba, to be followed by Guatemala.

Madam Chair, thank you very much. Seventy years since this Commission was first established, The irresponsible request for a vote and a vote against the agreed conclusions by the United States delegation in relation to the 70th CSW represent a historic aberration. This intransigent position led to a scenario that we hope will not be repeated in the future. The added value of this commission and its effective contribution to the advancement of women has always laid in its ability to build consensus. Even on the most sensitive or thorny issues, the practice of consensus and good faith in negotiations must be fully restored. That is what serious and responsible multilateralism is all about. The draft agreed conclusions considered on March 9, which Cuba supported with its vote in favour, was the outcome of serious negotiation work. It was conducted professionally and constructively by Rwanda and Liechtenstein, to whom we reiterate our thanks for their dedication. The United States, which did not engage in negotiations from the outset, and did not do so constructively at any stage, attempted to force us to roll back years of progress in the area of gender equality. They did not succeed. This is not the organization of the United States. This is the organization of the United Nations of the world. Here, gender equality is promoted, and we work tirelessly to ensure that women and girls can fully enjoy their rights. Cuba will continue to act responsibly, with seriousness and a sense of the historicity of this moment in the Commission and the United Nations in general.

I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Cuba for that statement. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Guatemala.

Madam Chair, Guatemala reaffirms its commitment to strengthening access to justice for all women and girls. It's essential that we strengthen capacity to effectively investigate and ensure processes that lead to and trials that lead to sentences with dignity and transformative reparations. It's also a priority that we make progress in specialized justice with a cultural approach to women, including the participation of indigenous women as prosecutors and judges to guarantee an inclusive and equitable legal system. It's also necessary that we incorporate the principles of parity, alternation, and inclusion of indigenous peoples in the electoral and political parties acts in order to ensure women's political participation without discrimination. Guatemala reaffirms its commitment to the individual and collective rights of Mayan, Garifuna, Afro-descendant, Xinca, Mestizo and Ladino women and to the international treaties to which it is a party. In this framework, Guatemala shall interpret and apply any provision, use or term of the agreed conclusions in strict accordance with the provisions of our constitution and national legislation in force. Madam President, there can be no equality without justice for women. There can be no democracy without an end to impunity. Guatemala reiterates its willingness to build a strong, responsive and inclusive justice system. When a woman cannot access justice, her rights cease to exist. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished

representative of Guatemala for that statement.

The representative of Israel, followed by Malaysia.

Thank you, Chair.

Israel aligns itself with the shared commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, which lies at the heart of the Commission of the Status of Women's mandate. We regret that this was not possible to reach consensus on the agreed conclusion at this session. We wish to place on record our disassociation from several elements in the text. First, Israel does not recognize the right to development as an established norm of international human rights law, and we therefore disassociate from all references to it in the document. Second, we are of the firm view that the paragraph on unilateral economic, financial, or trade measures

has no place in the conclusion document of the CSW.

In addition, Israel would like to reiterate our steadfast commitment to the protection and promotion of human rights for all. Nevertheless, as these conclusions reference to a document drafted by the Human Rights Council, we disassociate from the reference to the guiding principle on business and human rights. We are concerned that they are increasingly being politically utilized, and we cannot lend our endorsement to that throughout the text. Israel remains fully committed to the advancement of the rights of women and girls around the world. We will continue to engage constructively towards that goal.

Thank you.

I thank the Distinguished Representative of India for her statement, and I now give the floor to the Distinguished Representative of Malaysia, followed by the United Kingdom.

Thank you, Madam Chair. At the outset, Malaysia expresses its appreciation to the co-facilitators for their efforts in steering the negotiation on the agreed conclusions under challenging circumstances. We recognize the complexity of the discussions and the wide divergence of views among member states. Malaysia participated in the negotiations in good faith and demonstrated considerable flexibility with the aim of achieving a balance and consensus-based outcome. In this regard, we deeply regret that the agreed conclusions were adopted in a manner that departs from the Commission's established practice of consensus. Malaysia wishes to stress that the strength, credibility and legitimacy of this Commission are anchored in its unity and its commitment to consensus. The introduction and persistence of contested concepts and initiatives that do not command broad agreement have made consensus increasingly difficult to achieve. this connection we call on that all delegations to refrain from advancing such elements as the risk eroding trust and undermining the collective work of the commission we further underscore that negotiations must remain disciplined and focus on the agreed priority team the continued introduction of issues that fall outside its scope driven by narrow or unrelated priorities only serve to complicate the discussions and detract from the commission's ability to deliver meaningful and widely supported outcomes now with sending these concerns Malaysia acknowledges the importance of the priority team and the constructive elements contained in the document. In this spirit, Malaysia supports the adoption of the agreed conclusions. However, Malaysia wishes to place on record its understanding that certain terms and concepts referenced in the text will be interpreted strictly in accordance with our national laws, values and customs, and does not include any concepts that are inconsistent with the existing international human rights architecture. Madam Chair, Malaysia reiterates that the implementation of these agreed conclusions must be in line with the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, which take into account national and regional particularities and various historical, cultural and religious backgrounds, as well as national laws, and that the formulation of strategies, policies, programmes and development priorities is the sovereign responsibility of States. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Malaysia for her statement, and I now give the floor to United Kingdom.

Madam Chair, the United Kingdom is grateful to you, the Chair, and the co-facilitators for their leadership throughout this negotiation process and their tireless efforts to hold good faith negotiations to adopt a consensual, balanced, and action-oriented text that strengthens access to justice for all women and girls. The United Kingdom remains unwavering in our commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls in all their diversity. We are pleased to see strong references in the text to civil society, including women's rights organizations and women human rights defenders. We fully align ourselves with the references to ensuring sexual and reproductive health rights, the elimination of gender-based violence, and the importance of recognizing and embracing diversity. We pay tribute to the experts and civil society for their sustained engagement and advocacy throughout the process. We regret, however, the efforts to block adoption and the unprecedented decision to force a vote. The UK looks forward to implementing the agreed conclusions together with you all to strengthen access to justice for all women and girls and advance gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls. The UK remains absolute in our determination to put women and girls at the heart of our international policy and we will continue to champion their rights and opportunities everywhere and in all fora. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the United Kingdom for his statement, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Tuvalu, followed by Burundi.

Madam Chair, distinguished delegates, Tuvalu wishes to express its appreciation for the adoption of the great conclusions of the 70th session of the Commission on the Status of Women. The text provides strong and practical guidance to advance access to justice for women and girls. We particularly welcome the emphasis on addressing the structural barriers, strengthening institutions, and ensuring that the justice systems respond to the realities of women's lives, including those living in remote maritime contexts. For Tuvalu, these commitments are directly relevant. Access to justice is not only a legal issue. It is shaped by geography, capacity, social norms, and the availability of services. The recognition of these structural dimensions reflects the lived realities of small island developing states. At the same time, Tuvalu notes that the impacts of climate change are not sufficiently articulated in the text. For our country, climate change is not a contextual factor. It is a defining condition that increasingly affects the ability of women and girls to access protection, services, and remedies. Rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and the pressures associated with climate mobility are already reshaping our communities and institutions. In this context, access to justice must be understood as continuous and adaptable. Women and girls must be able to claim their rights, not only in stable settings, but also in situations of disruptions, displacement, and uncertainty. Tuvalu therefore encourages continued efforts within the Commission and across the United Nations system to more explicitly recognize and address the intersection between climate change and access to justice. Madam Chair, despite these challenges, Tuvalu remains committed to advancing gender equality. The women of Tuvalu are not only affected by climate change, they are leaders in responding to it, from households and communities to national and global levels. Their leadership reminds us that justice is not only about system, it is about people, dignity, and the ability to live with security and hope.

5th time I think that the single representative of to follow for her statement and I'll give the floor to sting representative of Burundi followed by the Holy See

Thank you very much madam chair At the outset, the Republic of Burundi would like to recall its commitment to strive for the well-being and prosperity of women. Burundi was the first African country to elect a woman as prime minister in 1993. The Republic of Burundi would like to express its deep discontent on the procedure and substance of the agreed conclusions and dissociates formally from all of the text. especially for non-consensual language. On the procedure, we regret that real consensus was not reached. The pursuit of the process, despite repeated calls for more time, is a break with the practice of consensus and weakens the outcome's legitimacy. to transform this commission into a platform for promoting non-consensual and divisive agendas. On the substance, the text remains imbalanced, with undue emphasis on concepts that do not enjoy universal consensus, especially when it comes to sexual and reproductive health, intersectionality, and gender terminology. Burundi recalls that any reference to sexual and reproductive health should be interpreted strictly in light of existing frameworks, including the Beijing Platform and the ICPD Programme of Action, and in no case should be interpreted as implying a right to abortion. These questions fall under national national sovereignty. Burundi also cannot support ambiguous or non-consensual terminology or any redefinition of the concept of gender beyond its internationally recognized definition. Burundi reaffirms that the implementation of these conclusions is under the sole purview of states in accordance with their laws, priorities, and values, and underscores that this text does not create any legal obligation. We remain committed to the rights and well-being of women and girls. Burundi calls for a return to multilateralism that is based upon dialogue, respect, and Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Burundi for his statement, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Holy See, followed by Colombia.

Madam Chair, my delegation expresses its gratitude to the co-facilitators of Liechtenstein and Rwanda for their efforts in facilitating open and inclusive consultation, resulting in a concise and more focused text. My delegation is grateful that the final text includes a number of positive elements related to combating trafficking, due care for women and girls in detention, and addressing financial and educational barriers to access justice. However, the Holy See finds it unfortunate that the agreed conclusions have been undermined by long-disputed terms and concepts, some of which imply that women's abilities to bear children is a barrier to justice. In this regard, my delegation reiterates its reservations regarding paragraphs concerning sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights, gender, and multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination. We also suggest two adjustments to negotiations in next session. Firstly, proceeding directly to a revised text without hearing from the room is not conducive to achieving a balanced outcome as responses to the rev demonstrated. While the disparity was reduced, it remained. Secondly, the process never fully reached the deal-making stage and a third round of negotiations would have been helpful. Madam Chair, the Holy See is alarmed by the manner of adoption. Indeed, consensus could have been reached if there had been the will to do so. Reports that not all silent breakers were consulted are troubling. A brief adjournment and separate actions on individual amendments would have demonstrated better the spirit of multilateralism. The Holy See hopes that the future sessions will recommit to finding true agreement. A longer version of this statement will be submitted to e-statements. Thank you, Madam Chair.

I thank the Distinguished Representative of the Holy See for his statement.

I give the floor to the Distinguished Representative of Colombia.

Thank you very much, Madam Chair. Colombia reiterates its sincere thanks to the Chair, to the Bureau, and to the co-facilitators for leading the negotiations for the agreed conclusions. It was a transparent, inclusive, and rigorous process. They facilitated a constructive dialogue between delegations. We regret that the final text has not reflected some themes in a more robust manner, such as the nexus between the criminalization of minor offenses and its impact on the imprisonment of women. We believe that this was essential to address structural inequalities in criminal justice systems. We also have identified that we could have included language relating to gender-based violence, and we were not able to achieve the level of ambition that we had hoped for, and that women were not recognized in all of their diversity. Also, we could have had a more explicit reference to mechanisms relating to deprivation of liberty can help to guarantee rights of women, access to justice, and we believe that this would have strengthened the text. Colombia, Madam Chair, reaffirms its commitment to inclusive multilateralism, where negotiation is going to be stimulated without revisionist or procedural issues that seek to undermine the carefully negotiated conclusion at the cost of agreed language. Colombia defends the agreed standards. It reiterates its commitment to women and girls in all of their diversity, and we will persist in defending women's and girls' rights.

I thank thank you I thank uh the distinguished representative Colombia for that statement

of Indonesia followed by Sweden

thank you Madam chair Indonesia wishes to express its appreciation to L 13 and Rwanda as facilitator for their effort in guiding negotiation toward the conclusion of the agreed conclusion of 70 session of this CSIW. Indonesia reaffirmed its strong commitment to gender equality and empowerment of all women and girls. Ensuring meaningful access to justice remain essential to safeguarding women's and girls' right, enabling their full, equal, meaningful participation in society. In this regard, Indonesia supports efforts to strengthen legal systems and policy frameworks so that women and girls can obtain fair, effective, and equal access to justice and effective, agreed conclusions. However, Indonesia regrets that the negotiation process was conducted under considerable time pressure, which limited opportunities for Member States to engage in more thorough discussion and to reach consensus. Indonesia also underlines that the implementation of the agreed conclusions should be carried out in accordance with national circumstances, priorities and legal frameworks. Furthermore, we regret the inclusion of the certain references and terminology that do not yet enjoy common understanding among member states and have not reached universal agreement. Indonesia believes that multilateral process must continue to be guided by mutual respect, inclusivity, and consensus so that the agreed outcomes truly reflect the collective

I thank the distinguished representative of Indonesia for her statement. I kindly remind delegations that there is a two-minute limit for intervention. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Sweden, followed by the United Republic of Tanzania. Sweden.

Thank you, Chair. Sweden aligns itself with the statement of the European Union. I'd like to add a few words in a national capacity. This year's priority theme offered a unique opportunity to address the critical issues of access for justice for women and girls across the world. It is an issue of pressing importance. Globally, women have only 64% of the legal rights of men. The adopted conclusions sends a strong signal that this situation must be rectified. Thank you, Chair and co-facilitators, for your leadership in securing a text that makes it plain that barriers to justice entrench inequality. We reject attempts to undermine the agreement, cause doubt on the process and criticize the co-facilitators and the Chair. During the negotiations of CSW conclusions, it is standard practice, whenever we can't agree on what language to use, to revert to the exact phrasing used in the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. When in doubt, the Commission goes with the language used since 1995. What was demanded last Monday and today by a small group of Member States is to go below what was agreed in the Beijing Declaration. We don't think it is reasonable to use the consensus tradition as a cover to turn back the clock 30 to 40 years and retroactively change the language in the document. Chair, let me make one more point. Sweden is also disappointed in the agreed conclusions. They do not mention the specific needs of adolescent girls. They say nothing about inheritance laws or rules regulating land rights. We couldn't even include a reference to conflict-related sexual violence due to the opposition of some countries. The conclusions are already a huge compromise and fall below what could have been possible. Instead, we will today have to endure long discussions on definitions that the international community had long since moved on from. And this is too bad. We hope future CSW centers on the lived realities and needs of all women and girls without procedural diversions. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Sweden for her statement, and I now give the floor to the United Republic of Tanzania, followed by Senegal.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Tanzania notes with the regret that for the first time, the outcome document of the Commission was adopted through the recorded vote. This depart from the longstanding traditional of consensus upheld over the past 69 sessions, risk and mining, but the spirit of multilateralism and effective implementation of a grid outcome, particularly in advancing access to the justice for women and girls as Tanzania prepared to join the Commission next year. We look forward to working closely with the Chairperson of CSW 71. We express the hope that the method of adoption employed this year will not constitute a precedent for future sessions. Tanzania remains firmly committed to support the restoration of consensus-based decision-making process consistent with the very essence of agreed conclusion. In this context, the delegation wishes to place on the record is the disassociation from certain references in the text that remain contagious, including those related to sexual and reproductive health and rights, as well as concept of multiple and intersecting form of discrimination. Tanzania will implement outcome document in accordance with its national laws, policy, custom, and tradition. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Tanzania for her statement. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Senegal, followed by Liechtenstein.

Thank you, Chair. My delegation outlines itself with the statement made by the group of countries. especially with patients on the conclusions I would like to make a few observations in its national capacity my delegation would like to express its concern regarding the manner in which the consultations took place which did not allow for a consensus to be fully achieved this did not contribute to the balance taking into account of various perspectives and did not foster inclusive dialogue especially because it it is a break from established practice on the substance which undermines the legitimacy of the Commission. Therefore, we'd like to underscore the importance of leading negotiations in a spirit of transparency, inclusiveness, and respect for the various positions in order to allow for a balance to emerge, an elastic consensus. Madam Chair, Senegal reaffirms its understanding of the term gender as referring exclusively to women and men. and we reject all attempts to expand or modify its interpretation. My delegation also would like to specify that it disassociates from the mention of multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination, while highlighting our national policy when it comes to sexual reproductive health. As for the reference to the Beijing Declaration, the Platform of Action, and Program of Action of the ICPD, We view these as being strictly limited to the texts that were negotiated and adopted under the auspices of the UN General Assembly. Any excessive or broader interpretation, we believe, does not reflect our position. Lastly, my delegation reaffirms the importance of respecting its national legislation, especially with regard to--

I thank the distinguished representative. of Senegal for her statement. And I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Liechtenstein.

Madam Chair, Liechtenstein is proud to have co-facilitated this year's agreed conclusion and welcomes its successful adoption on the opening day of CSW70. Together with our colleagues from Rwanda, we led an open, inclusive, and transparent process that sought to accommodate all delegations while trying to build on past agreed conclusions and sparing no efforts to reach consensus. In this regard, we regret that a small number of states sought to challenge previously agreed language, including on long established concepts such as gender. While we work tirelessly to enable the commission to adopt an outcome without a vote, we do not think that this objective should be misconstrued as giving delegations the option to block the collectively negotiated outcome document. We remain convinced that this year's agreed conclusions reflect the broadest possible agreement among all delegations and are pleased with the overwhelming support the document has received during the vote last Monday. We will continue working constructively with all delegations to further broaden consensus in the coming years. In line with our declared objective, the outcome is a short, succinct, and action-oriented document that maintains a strong focus on the priority theme. It introduces important forward-looking elements, including recognition of community-based justice actors, digitally enabled justice platforms, and an explicit whole of society model for improving women's and girls' access to justice. Taken together, the final document represents a meaningful and substantive step forward for the Commission's work on access to justice. Madam Chair, as CSW70 is coming to a close today, I wish to also take this opportunity to say thanks to my fellow co-facilitator, Flavia, for the amazing teamwork over the last seven weeks, but of course also to you, Madam Chair, for your outstanding leadership, as well as to fellow Bureau members for their support and guidance throughout this session. Muchas gracias.

I thank the distinguished representative of Liechtenstein, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of China, followed by Solomon Islands.

Chair. 30 years ago at the Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing, all parties sought common ground while shelving differences, forged broad consensus, and adopted the landmark Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, BDPA. Gender equality has been etched in the agenda of our times, governizing the world in its unwavering pursuit of that goal. As a host country, China has always been committed to safeguarding women's legitimate rights and interests, promoting equality between men and women. and women's all-around development, actively implementing the BDPA, taking concrete actions to advance global governance in the field of women's development, and making China's contribution to the global advancement of women's causes. Last October, China successfully hosted the Global Leaders Meeting on Women with the goal to carry forward the spirit of Beijing Conference, governize collective strengths, and inject momentum into the promotion of gender equality and women's empowerment. At present, achieving women's all-round development faces complex challenges. The urgent priority is to unite and cooperate to overcome these difficulties together. As we speak, the PDPA remains the policy framework and blueprint for advancing gender equality. Its role must be strengthened rather than weakened. We must recommit ourselves to what we agreed in Beijing, respect the right of all states to independently choose their paths for women's development, and respect their differences in cultural traditions, social systems, and values and avoid conflicts and divisions. We must engage in in-depth and constructive consultations, strive to uphold CSW's hard-won tradition of consensus and the fruits of cooperation, and at the UN level, build broader consensus and take more pragmatic actions to accelerate the realization of gender equality for women in the political, economic, social, cultural, and legal fields. I thank you, Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of China for his statement, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Solomon Islands, followed by Namibia.

Madam Chair, warm Pacific greetings. It is my great honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Pacific Island Forum members based in New York, and to extend our appreciation to the Commission for its work and wishes to convey its support for the agreed conclusions. The Group welcomes the agreed conclusions. We further note the text on climate change in the agreed conclusions and wish to place on record that climate change and its impact, such as sea level rise, remains the greatest threat to the livelihoods, communities and well-being of the people of our Blue Pacific. These realities underscore why international mechanisms such as CSW must meaningfully reflect and respond to the perspectives and lived experiences of the Pacific women and girls. It is our hope to have these realities articulated with stronger language, preferably in a standalone paragraph in the agreed conclusions of CSW 70 and beyond. Madam Chair, we acknowledge the important work done to revitalize the Commission on the Status of Women and its relevance for our efforts to ensure inclusive, equitable access to justice for all Pacific women and girls in their diversity, because this is where progress must be felt in our communities. And I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Solomon Islands for her statement, and I now give the floor to Namibia, followed by Switzerland.

Madam Chair, Namibia regrets the deep divisions among Member States regarding the most effective approaches to advancing the rights and empowerment of women and girls. Namibia acknowledges their existence. Such a state of play has a negative impact on the progress achieved thus far. Therefore, Achieving acceptable outcomes requires a careful balance amongst differing perspectives. In this regard, Namibia does not consider that the manner in which the agreed conclusions were adopted contributed to strengthening trust and confidence in multilateralism. Accordingly, Madam Chair, the promotion of undefined concepts and terminologies contained in the non-binding outcome documents, including the CSW agreed conclusions, should not prejudice Namibia's sovereignty. Concepts such as gender, as well as sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights, or their derivatives, must be implemented in a manner consistent with national laws and policies. Similarly, Madam Chair, the concept of multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination remains undefined at international level, as and is not reflected in Namibia's national legal and policy framework. Namibia, therefore, disassociates itself from this concept. A longer version of Namibia's statement will be submitted to e-statement for the record of this session. I thank you, Madam Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Namibia for his statement. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Switzerland, followed by Samoa.

Madam Chair, Switzerland commends the outstanding work of the co-facilitators, the Kenyan and Rwanda, as well as the Chair, throughout the process leading to the adoption of the agreed conclusions last week. They spared no effort to achieve consensus. The result is concise, focused on the priority theme, and action-oriented, in keeping with the revitalization of the CSW. We regret that, for the first time in the history of the CSW, the adoption of the conclusions was not done by consensus. The outcome, however, demonstrates that a vast majority of States supports the negotiated text and reaffirms a common commitment to access to justice for all women and girls in accordance with international obligations. In a context characterized by growing tensions regarding women's rights, Switzerland sees a promising sign in the strengthening the existing regulatory framework, including the principle of gender equality. Regarding the term "gender," Switzerland recalls that, according to Annex 4 of the report of the Fourth Global Conference on Women, that this term ought to be understood in its ordinary and universally accepted definition. This is the key of the Beijing Consensus and allows for a national interpretation that's adapted to each state's legal and societal frameworks. Switzerland believes that the drafting of Annex 4, which was carefully negotiated, should not be modified or reinterpreted beyond the agreed framework of 30 years ago. In this context, Switzerland recalls the importance of established practice consisting of submitting resolutions with sufficient time and holding preliminary consultations. Any new definition or reinterpretation of international standards must be meticulously considered together with all Member States.

I think the distinguished representative of Switzerland for his statement, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Samoa, followed by Mauritania.

Madam Chair, distinguished delegates, warm Pacific greetings. United, purposeful, and action committed, Samoa stands with the Pacific. We support the agreed conclusions of this Commission, particularly advancing inclusive and equitable access to justice for all women and girls. We offer a simple truth. Progress is not only what we agree, it is what is felt in our communities. In our villages, women are leaders and custodians of culture. Young women are stepping forward. Women with disabilities are calling for inclusion. Through our district development program, we place women, youth, and vulnerable groups at the center, not as beneficiaries, but as partners. We are strengthening systems and expanding support, guided by one principle: nothing about us without us. Madam Chair, today I speak not only as a representative, but as a father. A father wants his daughters to grow up safe, to be heard, and to walk freely without fear. And I know I am not alone. Access to justice must reach the woman facing violence in silence, the young girl navigating unsafe spaces, the child whose future depends on protection today. If our systems do not reach them, what are we measuring and what are we missing? And for small island development states, justice must also mean climate justice, because when climate change disrupts livelihoods, displaces families, and deepens vulnerability, it is women and girls who face the greatest barriers to safety, protection, and justice. For us, climate change remains an existential threat, shaping the safety, dignity, and futures of our families. Madam Chair, let our communities be felt in the safety of a girl, in the dignity of a woman, in the future of a child. We invite the world to stand with us. Thank you for your attention.

I thank the distinguished representative of Samoa, and I now give the floor to the single representative of Mauritania, followed by the European Union.

Good morning all.

I'd like first of all to thank you, Madam Chair. The Islamic Republic of Mauritania wishes to thank the two co-facilitators for their tireless efforts that have made it possible for us to adopt an outcome document at the 70th session of the CSW. This outcome final document examines an extremely important question as regards women's ability to thrive in the four corners of the world. Access to justice and the fight against discrimination in the legal sector is a necessary condition for equality to be achieved between men and women and for the empowerment of women and to allow them also to be more self-assured. This will also enable their full involvement in public decision-making in the public sphere and also to avoid violence against women. Significant references are made to access to justice for all women and girls and also combating discriminatory practices and we welcome the reference to the role of the family as regards the education of children and guaranteeing the rights of children. However, the fact outcome document has not referred to social protections for women and in relation to women's health. In this regard, Mauritania wishes to disassociate itself and issues reservations in relation to a number of terms that are not subject to consensus and that run counter to Islam and our social values. This includes multiple intersecting forms of discrimination and also sexual and reproductive health and rights. amongst others. In Mauritania, we believe that the term gender refers to the male sex and the female sex and boys and girls. I thank you.

I thank the single representative of Mauritania for her statement. I now give the floor I'm now give the floor to Libya. Thank you, Mauritania. Please remind that it's only two minutes.

Libya.

Thank you, Madam Chair. First of all, the government of Libya reaffirms its tireless and serious commitment to the advancement of women and protection of women's rights. We hold a firm conviction based on our national legislation. We believe that the empowerment of women and women's participation in all areas is not just a matter of international affairs, but also for us nationally in order to achieve sustainable development. This commission is a crucial forum for us to exchange in relation to good practices and to strengthen our efforts. We very pleased to see a number of references in the final document. However, my country regrets the fact that we have had to proceed to a vote in order to adopt the agreed conclusions. This is a dangerous precedent and risks undermining international unity on the matter of women and women's rights. We also wish to issue reservations as regards paragraph 8R and 8Z, and the terms multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination, which features in paragraph 6, because this term does not enjoy an international definition and interpretations are divided. By way of conclusion, the delegation of Libya reaffirms its tireless commitment to strengthening and defending women's rights. Women's empowerment must remain a national strategic choice, and this is the basis for achieving a more prosperous country. I thank you.

I now give the floor to the Distinguished Representative of Tonga, followed by the European Union.

Madam Chair, on behalf of the Kingdom of Tonga, may I extend our congratulations to you and the Commission on a successful CSW70. Tonga speaks in alignment with the Pacific Islands Forum statement and extends the Kingdom's full support for the agreed conclusions. In the Pacific, where peace and security are inextricably linked to climate change and associated issues such as sea level rise, the impacts of climate change act as a multiplier, intensifying existing tensions and risks. Tonga reaffirms that climate change remains our greatest existential threat and must be meaningfully reflected in the CSW agreed conclusions. We further urge the inclusion of stronger explicit language on the lived realities of Pacific women and girls in the face of climate change, articulated in a dedicated standalone paragraph in the CSW 71 outcomes and beyond. Tonga acknowledges the Commission's efforts to revitalize CSW and reinforce inclusive, equitable access to justice for all Pacific women and girls in their full diversity. Madam Chair, I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Tonga for his statement and I now give the floor to the European Union.

Thank you, Chair. I have the honor to speak on behalf of the European Union and its member states. We thank the co-facilitators of the agreed conclusions, Rwanda and Liechtenstein, for leading a constructive and inclusive negotiation process throughout, as well as you, Madam Chair, for all your efforts on bringing forward the text. This year's agreed conclusions is an important document with concrete commitments towards ensuring equal access to justice for all women and girls, including through eliminating discriminatory laws, policies, and structural barriers. The EU would have liked an even stronger, more comprehensive, and ambitious text. However, we recognize that hard compromises were needed in the context of this year's concise and action-oriented text.

In that spirit, we also agreed to include certain elements that we believe

fall outside the scope of the priority theme and do not reflect our position.

We thank the Chair and the Bureau for all the efforts in good faith to reach agreement on the text

that enjoys the widest possible support by the UN membership. We regret that it was not possible to adopt the final text by consensus, as some proposals

sought to include new caveats that have never been part of CSW agreed conclusions

and that would not have been in line

with the very purpose of the conclusions to end discriminatory laws against women and girls. We therefore supported the adoption of the agreed conclusions.

It is a strong and important text that carefully

balances the diverse perspectives and priorities of the membership and provides a comprehensive roadmap and a collective commitment to

ensure access to justice for all women and girls. I thank you.

I thank the Distinguished Representative of the European Union for her statement. We have heard the last statement in connection with the agreed conclusions. I understand the Russian Federation would like to take the floor.

Madam Chair. We once again express regret that the agreed conclusions, despite the resolution on methods of work of the Commission and in violation of the rules of procedure, was adopted by a vote. We believe that strictly adhering to the practice established during previous sessions of the Commission would have helped avoid this sad outcome, and we insist that what happened should not set a precedent for future sessions. We call on states to demonstrate political will, refrain from imposing controversial and foreign terminology and approaches on other countries, and to place consensus above their individual interests. The Russian Federation dissociates, therefore, from the following terms and concepts: multiple intersecting forms of discrimination, women human rights defenders, diverse situations, contexts, and conditions, and survivors. We also view any mention in the document of the term "gender" and its derivatives as applying to men and women. We express our commitment to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, in accordance with which any participation of minors in decision-making processes ought to be guided by the parents or legal guardians. We continue to hold that States are entitled to decide for themselves how to implement the recommendations proposed by the Commission in accordance with their national laws and priorities. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation for her statement. I wonder if Nicaragua would like to make a statement before we move to the next section of the agenda. You have the floor.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Once again, we reaffirm our unshakable commitment to dignity, well-being, and empowerment of women and girls. We are also highly committed to the implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Programme of Action and other UN frameworks. We regret that it was not possible to arrive at consensus this year on the agreed conclusions. The lack of consensus undermines the intergovernmental nature of this body. and we are moving away from the historic practice that allowed for collective progress for women and girls. We regret the multilateral negotiations, which ought to have been held under full respect for the sovereignty of states, non-interference in internal affairs, respect for national laws and priorities for development, as well as respect for diversity of sociocultural contexts. Certain terms and concepts introduced in the negotiations did not have any concerted definition in the UN context and did not enjoy support from all member states. We dissociate, in particular, from the references to sexual and reproductive rights and health, which did not have a consensus-based definition in the UN system. Any reference to reproductive health ought to be interpreted in accordance with what was established by the International Conference on Population and Development, the ICPD. Each state has the sovereign right to decide its own legislation and public policy and legal frameworks in the area. My delegation reaffirms that the interpretation and implementation of international obligations must be done in full respect for sovereignty and constitutional order and legislation of each state. Lastly, we are willing to continue to promote policies to promote the well-being, protection, health, and well-being of all women and girls as in accordance with our sovereignty. Thank you.

And I now give the floor to the single representative of the United States.

Thank you. We are disappointed that the Commission was unable to adopt the agreed conclusions by consensus this year. The United States supported the overall agenda of this year's CSW with its important focus on access to justice for women, and we arrived at this session willing to negotiate and collaborate with all nations in spirit of reaching consensus. Leading up to CSW, the United States engaged in numerous discussions with the chair, co-facilitators, and other member states. Despite clear communications of our red lines regarding gender ideology and sexual reproductive health and rights, among others, in the end, our amendments were never brought to a formal vote. And while our red lines were ignored, the United States will not stand by and watch as malicious forces misuse multilateral organizations to promote their ideologies and social agendas, obstructing nations' ability to exercise their national sovereignty. We will always protect women and girls from dangerous, radical gender ideology and reaffirm biological truth. Based on the final text of the agreed conclusions, the United States would like to clarify our positions on a few topics that prevented us from joining consensus and calling a vote. Regarding gender, it's the policy of the United States to recognize two biological sexes, male and female. To achieve this, we use clear and accurate language that recognizes women are biologically female and men are biologically male. Sex is not interchangeable, rather, it is irreplaceable. The differences between male and female should be celebrated, appreciated, and respected. On sexual and reproductive health, there's been unequivocally never been an international commitment on sexual and reproductive health and rights, and we strongly oppose the use of this terminology. The Trump administration is committed to supporting families, promoting women's health, and protecting children at all stages of life, and reaffirms that there's no international right to.

I thank the distinguished representative of the United States for her statement, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Uganda.

Thank you, Madam Chair. And I want to thank the Commission for the efforts made so far 70 years. Madam Chair, Uganda associates with the United States position, Senegal's position. We know for a fact that women and men are born and they are born as such, and that's what we shall respect. Uganda remains committed to promoting access to justice to all women and girls within the national laws and policies, like any other sovereign state. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Uganda for her statement. We have heard the last statement in connection with the agreed conclusions. I now invite the commission to resume its consideration of sub item C, agenda item three, in order to take action on two draft proposals submitted under the item. I first invite the commission to take action on draft resolution E/CN/6/2026/L.3. entitled "Women, the Girl Child, and HIV and AIDS," submitted by South Africa on behalf of the members of the Southern African Development Community. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of South Africa.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Chair, South Africa, as the chair of the Southern Africa Development Community, has the honor to present the draft resolution on women, the girl child, and HIV and AIDS. the draft resolution as reflected in the document E/CN/6/2026/L.3 on behalf of the 16 member states of the Southern Development Community. for adoption. The draft of the SADC, sorry, for adoption, the draft proposal is a technical update of the resolution 68/1, which was previously adopted in 2024. Since the adoption of the resolution 60/2 in 2016, SADC member states have made considerable progress in strengthening policy, institutional and programmatic environment for agenda-responsive HIV, response. The region continued to demonstrate strong political commitment, translating global and regional framework into national action. HIV strategies have been aligned with national gender policy and the regional framework, such as the SADEC protocol on gender development, as well as SADEC gender policy. It is concerning that HIV continue to have the face of a woman. This has contributed to the phenomenon of a narrow feminized culpability of HIV, resulting in stigma and social rejection of women. A key factor underpinning this trend is the relationship between gender-based violence, HIV, and the perpetual economic dependency of women on men. Women who experience intimate partner violence are three times more likely to acquire HIV, and those living with HIV are less likely to achieve viral suppression of violence, and it's continuously present within their life. It is worth noting that fear, cohesion, and disruptive access to care tend to prevail in abusive intimate partner relationship. Madam Chair, SDAEC notes with concern that in 2024-2025, there has been an abrupt reduction of the PFA finding, disrupting testing, outreach, and pre-pro last this expansion across several member states, exposing the fragility of external financing and reinforcing the agency for strengthening domestic resource mobilization. This trajectory reinforced by new challenges such as the climate-induced migration, humanitarian crisis, armed conflict and economic shock.

If you can finish in 25 seconds. For introduction of resolutions is a three-minute mark, madam.

To do the conclusion. While domestic financing commitment are growing, signaling a vital transition from the donor dependence, it is important that scaling up is critical for securing long-term resilience on such funding. SADC note that the positioning of itself as SADC as a definite global leader is translating gender and HIV commitment into transformative impact. remain firm that this proposal and its presiding resolution on women, the girl, child and HIV and AIDS must translate into tangible improvement in the health, the rights and empowerment of every woman and girl, forging a future free of dual burden of HIV and gender equality. The technical update of this resolution is therefore a strategic move. It is a reaffirmation of a collective commitment to justice, equality and human Madam Chair, we thank all delegations for their understanding, flexibility and continued support during the informal consultation on this topic on women, the girl child and HIV, as it remains relevant to the entire United Nations community realities. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of South Africa. I have been informed that the draft resolution contains no program budget implications. I now give the floor to the Secretary of the Commission to announce the additional co-sponsors of draft resolution L.3.

Thank you, Madam Chair. I would like to announce that since the submission of the draft resolution, and in addition to those delegations listed on the L document, the delegation of Belize has also become a co-sponsor of draft resolution L.3. If any other delegations wish to co-sponsor draft resolution L.3, please signify by pressing the microphone button. I see no requests. Thank you.

I thank the Secretary of the Commission. Does any delegation wish to make a statement in connection to draft resolution L.3? A vote has been requested on draft resolution E/CN/6/2026/L.3, entitled "Women, the girl child and HIV/AIDS." I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United States.

The United States Government is concerned with various languages and terminologies in the resolution regarding to sexual and reproductive health that we cannot accept. Until these terms have proper qualifiers, the United States cannot join consensus. In addition, thanks to the clear lack of desire for consensus displayed by the chair and co-facilitators, as noted by numerous delegations today, we now feel we cannot merely absent ourselves from the room for the sake of a consensus that is no longer desired. This leaves us with no alternative but to call a vote on this resolution.

I thank the distinguished representative of the United States. Does any non-member of the Commission wish to make a general statement or member wish to make an explanation of vote before the vote? I now give the floor to Paraguay.

Thank you very much, Madam Chair. The Republic of Paraguay is making this statement in relation to women, the girl, child and HIV/AIDS for action at this session, and also in relation to other documents of CSW 70. adopted on the 9th of March. Paraguay recognizes the importance of the issue being addressed both nationally and internationally. We reaffirm our commitment to the promotion and protection of the total health of all women, including sexual and reproductive health. Nevertheless, the Republic of Paraguay wishes to place on the record that the documents emanating from this process shall be applied and interpreted in accordance with our national constitution and legislation in force. As regards references to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights, Paraguay reiterates that these terms will not be interpreted as recognition, authorization, or promotion of termination of pregnancy in accordance with the reservations issued by us at the International Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Declaration and Programme of Action. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Paraguay for that statement.

Distinguished representative of Namibia.

Thank you, Madam Chairperson. According to the latest Secretary-General's report, 45% of all new infections were among women and girls. In sub-Saharan Africa, they made-up 68% of all new infections, while in East and Southern Africa, they made-up about 28% of all new infections. This reality recognizes that women and girls are more vulnerable to HIV infection and that they bear a disproportionate burden of the impact of the HIV and AIDS epidemic, including the care of and support for those living with and affected by HIV, and that this negatively affects the enjoyment of their human rights. It therefore underscores the need for a continuous HIV and AIDS response targeting women and girls, as well as respecting and promoting their rights and freedoms since the adoption of the General Assembly of various outcome document including the CSW resolution on women and girls and girl child and HIV and AIDS. Namibia invested heavily in the health sector to address among others the risk of HIV and barriers increase in increasing HIV prevention, treatment, care and support and the prevention of AIDS related death. Noting that inequality, violence against women and girls discrimination and early child marriage are among others key contributing factor to the spread of HIV AIDS among women and girls. It is crucial that we continue to strengthen effort to advance women and girls empowerment and sustain collective action to end the scourge of HIV. Namibia reaffirm that all action called for through this resolution either for the UN system or member state shall be undertaken in accordance with national laws and national policy. I thank you sincerely, Madam Chairperson.

I thank the distinguished representative of Namibia for her statement. In accordance with Rule 61 of the Rules of Procedure of the Functional Commissions of the Economic and Social Council, no representative may interrupt the vote except on a point of order in connection with the actual process of voting. The Commission will now vote on draft resolution E/CN.6/2026/L.3.

The Commission is now voting on draft resolution ECN6/2026/L.3 entitled "Woman, the girl child and HIV and AIDS". Will all members of the Commission -- Will all members of the Commission confirm that their votes are correctly reflected on the screen? The voting has been completed. Please lock the voting machine.

I thank the Secretary. The result of the vote is as follows: in favor, 43. against one, abstention zero. The draft resolution E/CN/6/2026/L.3 is adopted. Does any member of the Commission wish to make a statement in explanation of vote after the vote? Or no member wish to make a general statement? I now defer to the distinguished representative of the United States, followed by Egypt.

The United States has long been the world leader on eradication of HIV as the single largest donor. We are committed to its eradication. We ask member states to refocus on what is important here and to stop using a resolution on children as a conduit to promote controversial issues in recipient countries. We hope we can have a constructive outcome in future iterations. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the United States for his statement, and I now defer to the distinguished representative of Egypt, followed by Mali.

Egypt voted in favor of the draft resolution, while we continue to have a reservation on some of the concepts and definitions that are controversial therein. We align ourselves with the statement delivered by the representative of Namibia and reaffirm that we voted in favor of the cause and the noble cause and in empathizing with the suffering of the girl child and HIV/AIDS. However, we do not commit to controversial concepts and definitions contained in the draft in the resolution just adopted. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Egypt for his statement. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Mali, followed by Argentina.

Thank you, Senora President. It is not easy not to take the floor after the distinguished ambassador from Egypt, but I'll try. Mali.

Is pleased with the adoption of this text and remains firmly committed to the promotion and protection of the rights of women and children. On the other hand, we dissociate from all controversial terms that should be interpreted in accordance with Malian values. Thank you.

Distinguished representative of Mali for her statement. I now give the floor to distinguished representative for Argentina, followed by Nigeria.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Argentina reaffirms its commitment to international cooperation in response to HIV/AIDS and to channel efforts to improve treatment and support, especially for women and girls. Nevertheless, we wish to recall a number of points. Firstly, we wish to reiterate that Argentina understands the term gender in accordance with Article 7.3 of the Rome Statute and the International Court. And furthermore, we understand equality between men and women to be in accordance with our national constitution and international commitments, including the elimination of all forms of discrimination and equality between men and women.

Yes.

Regards the reference to Agenda 2030 and sustainable development, Argentina recalls that this constitutes an aspirational framework that is non-binding. Its implementation must respect the sovereign right of each state to interpret and pursue its objectives in accordance with its national legislation, priorities and national strategy.

I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Argentina for that statement. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Nigeria, to be followed by Saudi Arabia.

Thank you, Madam Chair, for giving me the floor. I just quickly add that Nigeria voted in support of the resolution, but I wish to note quickly that we will dissociate ourselves also from controversial concepts and gender ideologies that will not reflect our values, religions, and the rest of them. Aside from that, we are in agreement with the resolution. I thank you, Madam Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Nigeria for his statement. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Excellency.

Thank you, Madam Chair. We also join others in supporting the resolution, but at the same time, we express our reservation and disassociation with some of the terminology contained in the resolution. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Saudi Arabia for his statement, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Burundi.

Thank you very much.

My delegation would like to join other delegations in the adoption of this resolution and would like also to reassure other delegations with regards to its commitment to continue to fight for the welfare of women and girls. However, at the same time, my delegation would like to disassociate also from all those non-consensual terms and would also disassociate as well from it. I thank you.

The distinguished representative of Burundi for his statement. I now invite the Commission to take action on draft resolution E/CN/6/2026/L.4 entitled "Protection of women and girls through appropriate terminology," submitted by the United States. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United States.

Thank you, Chair. It is my honor to share with the Commission this resolution reiterating the definition of gender as stipulated in Annex IV of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. This resolution underscores the definition of gender from the Fourth World Conference on Women and included in Annex IV of the reports of the conference. Adherence to this established definition would allow constructive engagement by countries across the globe that seek to advance the CSW's core mission of promoting empowerment of women and girls worldwide we hope these same women and girls can count on member state support thank you.

I think the distinguished representative of the United States I have been informed that the draft resolution contains no program budget implications I now give the floor to the Secretary of the Commission to announce the additional co-sponsors of draft resolution L4.

Thank you, Madam Chair. I would like to announce that since the submission of the draft resolution, and in addition to those delegations listed on the L document, the following countries have also become co-sponsors of L4. Argentina, Belarus, Burkina Faso, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Hungary, Namibia, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, the Russian Federation, and Zambia. If any other countries wish to join as co-sponsors of draft resolution L4, please signify by pressing the microphone button. I see no further requests. Thank you.

I thank the Secretary of the Commission. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Belgium.

Thank you, Chair. I have the honor to speak on behalf of 26 member states of the European Union. We take note of the draft resolution titled "Protection of Women and Girls through Appropriate Terminology", which the United States submitted just minutes before the CSW deadline last Thursday, without any prior or subsequent consultation. While we fully respect all Member States' prerogative to put forward new initiatives for the consideration of the membership, we have serious concerns with the proposed text. The draft resolution presented by the US is factually incorrect, as it misquotes and contradicts Annex 4 of the report of the Fourth World Conference on Women and attempts to rewrite what was carefully agreed and reflected in Beijing over 30 years ago. The membership should not be forced to rush a decision on an issue of this importance by the unilateral initiative of one member state without any prior consultations or negotiations. New definitions or reinterpretations of international agreements require careful consideration and agreement with the UN membership. There have been absolutely no consultations, no negotiations offered by the US prior to or after presenting this proposal. For this reason, it is appropriate to propose that no action be taken with regard to the US proposal. Madam Chair, we are therefore compelled to exceptionally put forward a no action motion to uphold the letter and spirit of multilateralism that requires that all member states be heard and that proper consultations take place before adoption of important resolutions, not unilaterally imposed without any debate or negotiations. We reiterate our willingness to continue to participate in constructive, transparent, and good faith negotiations. I thank you.

The representative of Belgium has moved, within the terms of rule 49 of the rules of procedure of the functional commissions of the Economic and Social Council, that no action be taken on draft resolution E/CN.6/2026/L.4, entitled "Protection of women and girls through appropriate terminology". Rule 49 reads as follows. A representative may at any time move the adjournment of the debate on the item under discussion. Permission to speak on the motion should be accorded only to two representatives favoring and two opposing the adjournment, after which the motion should be put to the vote immediately. Does any member of the commission wish to speak? I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Brazil.

Thank you, Madam Chair.

Chair, distinguished delegates, as other delegations, Brazil maintains a principled hesitation to no action motions in general. We believe that proposals deserve adequate discussion, careful consideration, and genuine efforts toward agreement.

Regrettably, however, these elements were lacking in the case of the present draft.

Is why we support the no action motion. In our view, the draft resolution seeks to reinterpret the carefully crafted language contained in Annex.

4 of the report of the Fourth World Conference on Women without any prior consultations with member states. We therefore again support the no action motion in the spirit of multilateralism and.

And in the interest of ensuring that deliberations on key issues at the United Nations remain inclusive, transparent, and constructive. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Brazil. I now give the floor to the United States.

Chair. We are very disappointed that a delegation would seek to prevent a simple vote from being held on a resolution which was duly submitted according to the requirements of the Commission. This motion would create a troubling precedent and not only erodes the working methods of this Commission, but of all UN bodies. The contents of the US resolution reflects proposes that the United States has been making since mid-February and also made in the first amendment the US proposed to the agreed conclusions of the Commission. If a vote had been held on each amendment as requested, this resolution would not be necessary. No further consultation was needed. This is a response to the lack of votes and lack of consideration that these amendments have been shown with for the past month. Thank you.

I see no further members of the Commission of the Status of Women requesting the floor. The Commission will now proceed to vote on the motion for no action on draft resolution E/CN/6/2026/L.4. In accordance with rule 61 of the Rules of Procedure of the Functional Commissions of the Economic and Social Council, no representative may interrupt the voting except on a point of order in connection with the actual process of voting. the commission will now vote on the motion for no action on draft resolution e/cn 6/2026/4 L4 those in favor of the no action motion should vote yes those against the motion should vote no.

The Commission is now voting on the motion for no action on draft resolution ECN 6/2026/L.4 entitled Protection of Women and Girls through Appropriate Terminology. Those in favor of the no action motion to the draft resolution should vote yes. Those against the motion for no action should vote no. Will all members of the Commission please confirm that their votes are correctly reflected on the screen? The voting has been completed. Please lock the voting machine.

The result of the vote is as follows. In favor, 23. Against, three. Abstentions, 17. The motion for no action on draft resolution E/CN.6/2026/L.4 is adopted.

That was awesome.

Distinguished colleagues, the motion has passed, so we are now moving to the next part of the agenda. I now invite the Commission to resume its consideration of agenda item 4, communications concerning the status of women. I would like to recall that at its closed meeting on 18th March, the Commission took note of the report of the Working Group on Communications on the Status of Women and decided to include it in its entirety in the report of the Commission. Are there any comments? I remind delegations that we are on agenda item 4, communications concerning the status of women. Are there any comments on this specific item? I see no further requests for the floor. The Commission has thus concluded its consideration of agenda item 4. I invite the Commission to begin its consideration of agenda item 5, follow-up to Economic and Social Council decisions, resolutions and decisions. There is no documentation for this item. Does any delegation wish to take the floor under this item? I see none. The Commission has thus concluded its consideration of agenda item 5. I now invite the Commission to begin its consideration of agenda item 6, entitled Provisional Agenda for the 71st Session of the Commission on the Status of Women, and to turn to the provisional agenda for the session as contained in document E/CN.6/2026/1. document E slash CN six slash 2026 slash L five. Are there any comments on the document E slash CN six slash 2026 slash L five? May I take it that the commission wishes to approve the provisional agenda and documentation of its 71st session as and recommended to the Economic and Social Council for adoption? I hear no objection. It is so decided. I would like to kindly ask the distinguished representative of Italy and Czechia if they're making a point of order. Micro, Italy.

I am making a point of order. What I want to say is that we had asked before the meeting if we could have made an explanation of vote after the vote in this case of the no action motion. Maybe there has been a misunderstanding, but it seems that also my colleague had received the same answer, and the answer was that we could have made an explanation of vote after the vote. So I would like to know if this is still the case because we made our decision on what kind of vote on the non-action also on the basis of this info. Thank you, Madam.

Thank you, Excellency. I now give the floor to the Secretariat of the Commission to explain to Italy and Czechia the reason behind.

Thank you, Madam Chair. The Commission had before a draft resolution L4. and per the established practice and the rules of procedure, delegations should draft resolution and for have been considered. Then delegations would have had the opportunity to deliver statements in connection with the draft resolution either before or after Belgium on behalf of the European Union moved for no action under the terms of Rule 49 on the draft resolution. the rules of procedure, two members can speak in favour and two members can speak against that motion, after which the motion is immediately voted on. The motion was passed, and therefore, draft resolution L4 is no longer before the Commission for this session, and therefore, there can be no explanations of position on a draft resolution that no longer is before this meeting, pursuant to the motion. Thank you.

I hope the delegations of Italy and Czechia find this response satisfactory. The Commission has thus concluded. Czechia would like to ask you if you have a point of order.

Yeah. Yes, um, um, I, I'd like to, uh, make a point of order, um, and, uh, because we find, uh, this situation most, uh, most unfortunate as, um, our vote, uh, was, uh, simply made on procedural grounds, not on the substance. And I'd like to state on behalf of the Czech Republic that we share the interpretation of the term gender and related expressions as set out in the resolution proposed by the United States. In that regard, let me recall the words of my Minister of Foreign Affairs that one's gender is male or female as based on sex and at birth. Last but not least, the Czech Republic continues to support the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, and we remain fully committed to its core objective to protect, promote and realize the rights of women and girls in all areas of society, to end all forms of violence against women, and to ensure the empowerment of women and girls. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Czech for his statement, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Italy.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Sorry for this procedure, but I also want to highlight that we have supported the no action motion presented by Belgium to highlight the procedural shortcomings of our process, which given its importance, would have deserved more time. But beyond these procedural issues, however, Italy shares the interpretation of the term gender and related expression as set out in the resolution proposed by the United States, namely as referring exclusively to male, female, binary based on sex at birth. Therefore, Italy reserves to keep this position as a basis for every future negotiation. Italy, of course, supports the Beijing Declaration Platform of Action and reaffirms its commitment to protect, promote, and realize the rights of.

Women and girls.

In all areas of society, to end all form of violence against women, and to ensure the empowerment of women and girls. Thank you, Madam Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Czech and Italy for their statements. I remind the commission that we are on agenda item six, and we need to proceed to agenda item four. I see the distinguished representative of Tunisia. Is this a point of order?

Just to make sure just a point of my position on the vote that we have just had very quickly.

I would kindly request that we maintain the order of the agenda there is no you know only on point of orders we can continue on let me consult with the secretariat give me a second I'll give you the floor in the point of order.

Very, very quickly, we reaffirm our commitment to the sustainable development goal, in particular SDG 5 on gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls. In accordance with our national legislation, Tunisia seeks to promote and protect women's rights and to mainstream gender across all our policies as referring to men and women. Tunisia reiterates its strong commitment to the Beijing Declaration and Platform for as a cornerstone of the international framework for the advancement of women's rights. This framework reflects a carefully negotiated consensus and continues to guide our collective efforts. In this context, Tunisia considers that references to agreed international frameworks must remain accurate and faithful to the language adopted by Member States. Preserving the integrity of these commitments is essential to maintaining trust and coherence in our multilateral work and that's why we voted in favor of the no action motion. I thank you, Madam Chair.

The Commission will now, we have heard the members of the Commission on their point of order or explanation votes. The Commission will now consider agenda item seven, entitled adoption of the report of the Commission of its 70th session. The draft report of the session is before you in document E/CN.6/2026/L.1. I give the floor to the Vice-Chair and rapporteur, Ms. Sama Dubokt of Lebanon, to introduce the draft report.

Thank you, Madam Chair. I have the honor to present the draft report of the Commission on the Status of.

Women at its 70th session, which is before you in document E/CN.6/2026/L.1. The draft report contains information on the organizational part of our session.

And it will be updated and completed when required.

In addition, the proceeding of today's meeting of the Commission will be reflected in the final report.

Including the actions just taken on the draft proposals and on the agreed conclusions that was adopted at the second meeting on 9 March.

With regard to section B on attendance, I should like to point out.

That those delegations that have provided information on their participation are currently reflected in the provisional list of participants. The list was circulated through the e-delegate portal on 18 March.

Delegations that do not appear on the list.

Or those who wish to make corrections to the list are kindly requested to do so in the portal.

As soon as possible and no later than Friday 27 March 2026.

With that, Chair, I recommend this draft report for adoption by the Commission. I thank you.

I thank the Vice-Chair and rapporteur. May I take it that the Commission wishes to adopt the draft report and agrees to entrust the rapporteur with its finalization, with the support of the Secretariat? I hear no objection. It is so decided. The Commission has thus concluded its consideration of agenda item 7. the Commission has thus concluded its consideration of all outstanding matters before the Commission I now invite the executive director of United Nations entity for gender equality and the empowerment of women you and women missy Mavis to deliver a statement.

Thank you madam chair Ambassador Maritza Chan, Chair of the CSW 70, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, civil society representatives. As always, this Commission on the Status of Women sent a strong message to the women and girls of the world. Their right to justice matters, and discriminatory laws and practices have no place in legal systems, policies, or institutions. The past two weeks have witnessed yet again the energy, the determination, and the passion of all of you, delegates and civil society, who bring the Commission to life. You have done this in the face of many challenges. because of our shared belief in one fundamental truth. Gender equality and women's rights are the foundation on which our peace, security, economic prosperity, and sustainable development ambitions rely. Without women's equal, meaningful participation, without their equal access to justice, to economic opportunity, to a life free from violence, without their leadership in government, the private sector, in peace negotiations, our nations will not progress. Reaffirming this very simple truth, pushing it forward through agreed conclusions, is the purpose of this Commission, and you rose to the challenge. My deepest thanks to our dear chair, Her Excellency Ambassador Maritza Chan Valverde, and to all the vice chairs, Ms. Andreea Monaco of Romania, Ms. Samak Dubuc of Lebanon, and special thanks to vice chair, Mr. Noah O'Hery of Liechtenstein, and Ms. Flavia Omulisa of Rwanda for facilitating the agreed conclusions. I know their efforts are appreciated by every one of you. The CSW70 Bureau served as an inspiration, showing leadership in action during a critical time for the Commission. Together, you led the first session of the revitalized CSW. I thank you, Member States, for your continued support to UN Women as we support you and work with you to implement your national priorities and gender equality ambitions. My thanks also to the UN Women team, who works tirelessly every day here in New York and around the world to advance gender equality and the rights and empowerment of all women and girls. UN Women's impact is measured in lives lived. in lives changed, in laws that protect, economies that are inclusive, and peace processes shaped by women's leadership. From development to conflict settings, we see progress where women and girls are no longer left behind, but leading forward. I would also like to recognize our sister entities across the United Nations system for their active engagement throughout this session and always on gender equality and women's empowerment. This is our collective effort also in the context of UN80, as we work towards a stronger, coherent, and well-funded gender equality architecture at the heart of the UN system. Excellencies, our collective focus must remain on the women and girls across crisis contexts. They pay the highest price, from Afghanistan to Gaza, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Haiti, Myanmar, Ukraine, South Sudan, Sudan, Somalia, and beyond. And we speak, as we speak now, across the Middle East. The long list is ever-growing. We hope that they will all soon find justice and peace, a return to the rule of law and respect for the UN Charter. Excellencies, on the opening day of this Commission, you voted to adopt by a majority historic agreed conclusions. In doing so, your agreed conclusions place women's and girls' access to justice firmly at the center of the global gender equality agenda, recognizing that discriminatory laws and structural barriers, including harmful social norms, continue to fail women and girls and the full realization of their rights. You have urged governments to review discriminatory laws, from child marriage to family and property rights, and to strengthen measures to prevent and respond to violence against women and girls, both online and offline. You emphasized the need for accountability for perpetrators and timely and trauma-informed access to justice and support services for survivors. You have recognized the necessity of adequate financing and coordinated justice governance, including ensuring universal access to legal aid. You delivered breakthrough language. For the first time, community justice workers and paralegals are specifically recognized as important actors who can expand women's and girls' access to justice. and women in detention and imprisonment are explicitly acknowledged, along with the gendered pathways that lead to their incarceration. You have advanced gender-responsive transitional and international justice mechanisms, and highlighted the potential of administrative reparations to deliver timely remedies to women and girls surviving conflict and crisis. Your conclusions champion a whole of society approach, recognizing civil society, especially feminists group, as indispensable partners. Together, you have taken a vital step towards justice that is truly for all women and girls. UN Women looks forward to working with all of you to implement the agreed conclusions. Excellencies, CSW70 marks the first session held since the adoption of ECOSOC resolution 2026/2 on the revitalization of this Commission. Delivering on revitalization, CSW70 reduced the text of the agreed conclusions to 10 pages, making them more focused. It also had three new additions to enrich the discussions: a multi-stakeholder hearing, a high-level meeting on violence against women and girls that brought together over 80 ministers, and a dedicated ministerial roundtable focused on the rights and empowerment of older women. This CSW had 190 member states represented, among them two heads of state of government and one vice president, five deputy prime ministers, and 75 ministers. We also had the participation of over 4,600 non-government organization representatives and a total of 255 side events organized by member states, civil society, and the United Nations family. In all spaces, Civil society activists and leaders, young and older, made recommendations and called for bold measures to bring justice closer to the lives of all women and girls. I thank you and I salute you for your passion, for your commitment, and for the hope that you always carry, the hope that carries us all as we all push forward together. So thank you very much to civil society and non-government organizations. Excellencies, this CSW has once again shown us that the headwinds against gender equality and women's rights are strong. But it has also reminded us that our shared resolve to advance women's rights is stronger. And together, we will continue to face those headwinds. UN Women's unwavering commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment and to our crucial triple mandate will remain the unshakable ground on which we stand always. We will continue to deliver on the promises of the Beijing Declaration to advance gender equality and the rights and empowerment of all women and girls in all their diversity, leaving no one behind. We will pursue access to justice for all women and girls, and we look forward to working with all of you to this end. We also look forward to the 71st session of the Commission next year. The Commission's priority theme will assess gender equality and women's and girls' human rights across the Sustainable Development Goals. With 2030 approaching, no goal five indicators have been fully met. CSW 71 will review progress on the SDGs, identify required actions and accelerators to sustain momentum and advance the Beijing Platform for Action. Excellencies, dear delegates, this year sees you electing a new Secretary-General, perhaps the most consequential action in the history of these United Nations. I know all of us at UN Women, and I'm sure many of you in this room, would be proud to open the Commission next year alongside a Madame Secretary-General. As we leave this room, let us carry forward the voices, the evidence, and the urgency that shaped this session. The world is watching. Women and girls are counting on all of us. And together, we must and we will deliver. And for all those who are celebrating Eid al-Fitr tomorrow, may it bring with it peace and hope for everyone. And I thank you.

I thank the Executive Director of UN Women for her remarks. I will now make my closing remarks. Excellencies, esteemed delegates, let me begin where it matters most. Malala was here last week for International Women's Day. She said it plainly, "We cannot succeed when half of us are held back." Those words were never meant to stay here. This Commission exists to prove them right. Our mandate is the full realization of the rights of women and girls. This session asked a precise question. What does revitalization actually require? Access to justice is the answer. The mechanism that transforms a right into a remedy. The system through which a woman who has been harmed can seek redress and expect it to come. We know that the gap looks like in practice. Courts that women cannot reach financially or physically. Legal systems where the burden of proof consistently works against them. Remedies that arrived too late or not at all. This theme was not chosen in the abstract. It reflects a problem that is concrete in every region across every legal tradition. This session did not happen in a vacuum. Following ECOSOC's resolution on the revitalization of the Commission, we convened a multi-stakeholder dialogue before negotiation opened, something this body has never done. Civil society, the UN system, the private sector, academia, all at the table before delegations arrived. That foundation mattered, and it showed in the quality of what followed. I'm deeply grateful to every delegation that negotiated in good faith and with seriousness. The final days asked a great deal. That we deliver reflects something real about this Commission and what it's capable of. My particular appreciation goes to my Bureau colleagues, Andrea, Flavia, Noah, and Sama. Noah and Flavia guided the agreed conclusions with precision and in steadiness when both were needed. Their efforts have helped deliver on the promise of a revitalized Commission with agreed conclusions that are more concise, more focused, more action-oriented, and focused on the priority theme. I'm proud to have worked alongside them. I also want to thank Luis Jose, from the Costa Rican mission, who was present throughout this session in the way that matters most, quietly, consistently, and without complaint. He's, in every way that counts, exactly like my Bureau, the kind of person on whom results actually depend. I also want to thank GDACM and UN Women, whose support made this session possible in ways that are not always visible, but are always felt. And to the interpreters, this Commission speaks many languages. You made sure it was heard in all of them. This session opened new ground. Through two ministerial roundtables, we have advanced important conversations on issues such as access to justice and aging. And for the first time, we convene a high-level event dedicated to violence against women and girls, where ministers exchange view on priorities, challenges, and opportunities to prevent and address this persistent violation of human rights and fundamental freedoms. This was a stark reminder of the urgency of our work and of our collective resolve to act. Now comes the part that counts. What was agreed here has to reach the women it was written for. Women waiting for courts that will hear them. Girls whose rights are recognized in law, but not yet in life. The road between law and life is long. It has been walked before. We have seen it done through sustained political will and the kind of work that happens far from these halls. This commission has shown these two weeks what it's capable of. Delegations from every region with different legal traditions, different pressures, different constraints choose to stay at the table and deliver. That did not come easily. It came because people chose to be here and chose to stay. Somewhere, a girl who has never heard of this Commission will grow up in a world slightly more inclined toward her rights. She will not know why. She will not need to. That is the only measure that matters. And it is the most hopeful thing I know. I thank you. excellencies distinguished colleagues immediately following the conclusion of this meeting I will convene the first meeting of the 71st session of the Commission for the sole purpose of electing the members of the Bureau as well as the members of the working group on communications for the 71st session of the Commission please remain seated I now declare close the 70th session of the Commission of the status of women I call to order the first meeting of the 71st session of the Commission on the Status of Women. In accordance with Rule 15 of the Rules of Procedure of the Functional Commissions of the Economic and Social Council and Decision 2013/123 of the Commission on the Status of Women, 2002/234 of the Council of 24th July 2002, the Commission is holding the first meeting of its subsequent regular session to elect the members of the Bureau. I now invite the Commission to begin its consideration of agenda item 1, election of officers. The Commission will recall that At the first meeting of the 70th session on 21st March 2025, the Commission elected Ms. Andreea Mocanu of Romania, Ms. Noa Oari of Liechtenstein as Vice-Chairs of the Commission at the 70th and 71st sessions. I now invite the Commission to proceed to the election of the remaining members of the Bureau for its 71st session. I have been informed that his Excellency Wellington best con permanent representative of the Dominican Republic to the United Nations is nominated to serve as chair of the Commission at his 71st session in the absence of any other delegate nominations may I take it that the Commission wishes to elect by acclamation, His Excellency Wellington Bescom of the Dominican Republic as chair of the Commission at its 71st session? I hear no objection. It is so decided. I now give the floor to His Excellency Wellington Bescom of the Dominican Republic. You have the floor.

Madam Chair, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, it is a great honor to address you all at this very important time for the Dominican Republic as we take up the chairpersonship of the CSW. This occasion is not just a watershed moment for our country, but also a reflection of the firm will and the commitment of the government of the Dominican Republic to continue defending the rights of women and girls and also to participate actively in the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of women across the globe. I'd like to take this opportunity to highlight the laudable work carried out by my colleague and friend, Ambassador Maritza Chan Valverde, Permanent Representative of Costa Rica and Chair of CSW 70. Her leadership, tenacity, and capacity for negotiation have been absolutely crucial in the approval of the final text of the agreed conclusions. Similarly, I'd also like to commend Lebanon, Rwanda, and Liechtenstein for their work during this session, as well as the entire team of UN Women, including their executive director, for coordinating this year's session. the Dominican Republic, the promotion of gender equality and the full participation of women in decision-making spaces is more than just a commitment of state. It is a question of profoundly held principles that are rooted in the lessons that we have learned through our own history. At this time, allow me to share with you some facts relating to progress that has been achieved by our government. Currently, women represent some 37% of the Chamber of Deputies. In judicial power, the participation of women makes up 70%. In higher education, women make up 66% of students enrolled. And in terms of access to formal credit lines, this has seen a growth of 42% in women's access to credit in our country. In addition, the Dominican Republic is taking up the chairpersonship of the CSW at a very important time. Minerva was a Dominican woman who, alongside her sisters, Patria and Maria Teresa, became an emblem of the fight against tyranny and oppression. Minerva reminds us that defending the rights of women is not just a question of equality, but a collective commitment that we have in combating all forms of violence, including political violence and violence in online digital spaces. Promotion of human rights is the third axis of our foreign policy. Together with the 51 other founding nations of the United Nations, we are a country that loves peace and we are defenders of multilateralism. And for this reason, as we take up the chairmanship of CSW 70 for 2026 through 2027, the Dominican Republic is reaffirming its commitment to continue working towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. and in particular, the goal linked to gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls. This will be a Chairpersonship that is open to dialogue, and we will be actively listening so that we can build bridges of understanding across countries and regions on the basis of the values that unify us and a shared understanding. I certain that as our sister nation of Costa Rica has done, we will defend results and outcomes for all, but above all, the integrity of the process for CSW71. In conclusion, the Dominican Republic stands ready to take up this challenge. We do so enthusiastically, with humility and a sense of responsibility, so that we can move towards building a more just prosperous, egalitarian, and inclusive world where the voice of each nation is heard without leaving any women or girls behind. Thank you very much for this opportunity.

I thank Ambassador Beskum that statement I congratulate him on taking up the chairpersonship at its 71st session.

I have been informed of the following nominations for the 71st session miss Leah ma Valley of Mozambique from among the group of African states and Mr. by just suck can I thought you of Mongolia, excuse me for killing your last name probably, from among the group of Asia-Pacific states. May I therefore take it that the commission wishes to elect as vice chairs by acclamation, Ms. Ligia Mavale of Mozambique and Mr. Bajarzagt Altankhuu of Mongolia for the 71st session of the commission? I hear no objection, it is so decided. On behalf of the Commission, I wish to extend to the elected Chair and Vice-Chairs my warmest congratulations and to wish them all the best as they embark on the preparation for the next session of the Commission. I wish to recall that in resolution 1983/27, the Economic and Social Council authorized the Commission to appoint a working group on communications consisting of no more than five of its members, selected with due regard for geographical distribution, to meet in closed meetings during each session of the Commission. The Commission will also recall that at the second meeting of the 70th session, on 9 March 2026, the Commission elected Spain as a member of the Working Group at its 70th and 71st sessions. I have now been informed that Ukraine, from among the East European groups, is nominated to serve as a member of the Working Group at the 71st session of the Commission. May I take it that the Commission wishes to appoint Ukraine to serve on the Working Group on Communications at the 71st session of the Commission? I hear no objection. It is so decided. The Commission will postpone the election of the members of the Working Group on Communications at its 71st session from among the group of African States. the Group of Asia-Pacific States, and the Group of Latin American and Caribbean States to a later date, on the understanding that upon nomination, the nominated members be allowed to participate fully in the work of the working group. I would like to reiterate that the call to the relevant regional groups to consider putting forward nominations to the working group as soon as possible. there any comments I hear no objection it is so decider then beard no further other business the first meeting of the 71st session of the Commission is now adjourned