Abolish Discriminatory Laws and Structural Barriers
Ministers gathered at the Commission on the Status of Women in New York today called on nations to eliminate discriminatory laws and structural barriers that hinder women’s ability to report crimes and seek justice. The ongoing session, which began on March 9 and will run until March 19, focuses on ensuring equitable access to justice for women and girls. During a ministerial roundtable, participants emphasized the need for legal systems that support survivors and protect their rights, highlighting the importance of consent-based standards and victim support.
Access to Justice: A Fundamental Right
During the discussions, speakers underscored that access to justice is not merely a legal concept but a crucial aspect of women’s lives. Aurore Bergé, France’s Minister Delegate for Gender Equality, stressed that when justice fails to protect women, it jeopardizes democracy itself. She emphasized that violence against women is not a private matter but a societal issue that reflects domination. Bergé asserted that silence from victims should not be misconstrued as consent, advocating for a justice system that respects women’s dignity and rights. The call for reform was echoed by various ministers who highlighted the necessity of laws and procedures that prioritize the protection of survivors and ensure their voices are heard.
Legal Reforms and National Initiatives
Countries shared their national reforms aimed at enhancing women’s access to justice. Erkki Keldo, Estonia’s Minister for Economy and Industry, announced a proposed law that mandates consent for sexual relations, framing it as a significant step towards addressing sexual violence. Similarly, Cathy Nori, Minister for Women, Girls and Family Affairs of the Solomon Islands, discussed her government’s legislative reforms, including raising the legal marriage age for girls. She noted that while these reforms are essential, they must be accompanied by genuine engagement with women to ensure that laws are not just theoretical but practically beneficial.
Citlalli Hernández Mora, Secretary for Women of Mexico, highlighted the election of the country’s first female president and her commitment to constitutional reforms aimed at achieving gender equality. She emphasized that true justice requires a cultural shift to dismantle stereotypes and ensure that women can report crimes without fear of repercussions.
Innovative Approaches to Combat Violence
Ministers also discussed innovative strategies to combat violence against women. Naima Ben Yahia, Morocco’s Minister for Solidarity, pointed to a new law focused on prevention and protection for victims, alongside digital tools designed to support women survivors. Economic empowerment was identified as a critical factor in addressing violence, with various countries implementing programs to enhance women’s financial independence.
Agnes Naa Momo Lartey from Ghana highlighted the importance of legal literacy and partnerships with civil society to strengthen protections for women. She noted that despite progress, challenges such as limited awareness of legal rights and socio-cultural norms persist. In Paraguay, Alicia Pomata Gunsett emphasized the need for comprehensive services that address barriers preventing women from accessing justice, advocating for coordinated efforts to provide support and protection.
Commitment to Transforming Justice Systems
The commitment to transforming justice systems was a recurring theme among the ministers. Shradha Shrestha, Nepal’s Minister for Women, Children and Senior Citizens, outlined her government’s initiatives to enhance legal aid and support for survivors. She emphasized the importance of a survivor-centered approach that prioritizes safety and confidentiality.
Wafa Bani Mustafa from Jordan reiterated that access to justice is a fundamental right, highlighting the increase in women in legal professions as a positive step toward fair trials. Micheline Ombae Kalama from the Democratic Republic of the Congo called for reforms that not only punish perpetrators but also promote healing for survivors.
Michelle Muschett from the UNDP concluded the session by emphasizing the critical role of justice in addressing global challenges. She reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to advancing gender equality and supporting nations in their efforts to create inclusive legal systems.
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