Mr Chair,

Germany aligns itself with the statement of the European Union.

This 70th session of the Commission on the Status of Women is taking place in globally difficult times. Women’s and girls’ fundamental human rights are being challenged in many places.

This makes it all the more regrettable that for the first time in the history of the CSW, a motion was tabled this afternoon to vote on the agreed conclusions.

I regret that not everyone shares our collective commitments on gender equality, made in Beijing in 1995, any longer.
But fortunately, the vast majority continues to do so.

This, in turn, is an encouraging signal:

Multilateralism still can and we still must deliver results!

We owe this to all women and girls in the world, who are still deprived of sometimes even their most basic rights – like the right to education.

I was deeply touched by the speech of Malala and the contribution of the courageous young Afghan student this morning.
With the adoption of the Agreed Conclusions, we are sending now a strong message to all girls and women today:

We are hearing you. Your rights are universal. Human rights are not negotiable.

In Germany, we have a well-developed legal framework.

The rule of law, access to justice, legal and gender equality in law and in practice are key values.

We know: A gender-responsive legal system based on human rights principles is what protects functioning liberal democracies and guarantees peace and sustainable development.

I would like to point out three priority fields of action, also addressed in the Agreed Conclusions:

First:

Protection against all forms of sexual and gender-based violence, off- and online, at home and in conflicts.

In this context, Germany also reaffirms its commitment to implementing the Women, Peace and Security Agenda.

A life free from gender-based violence, as well as the full, equal and meaningful participation and equal opportunities in all spheres of life – these are foundational for being able to enjoy all human rights and fundamental freedoms.

At the national level, Germany’s Violence Support Services Act will create the first-ever individual legal right to protection and counseling for women affected by violence and for their children.

The digital space, too, must be a place where laws apply.

In Germany, we are working on a law to counter cyber violence that aims to strengthen people’s rights to obtain information from online platforms.

Second:

Access to justice requires sufficient knowledge of one’s own rights.
Legal literacy, by the way, is not only essential for women and girls.
Boys and men are both agents and beneficiaries of gender-responsive change.

Third:

Realizing your rights depend on inclusive, accessible and affordable access and procedures.
That is why promoting economic self-sufficiency is a priority for Germany.

It is positive, too, that the Agreed Conclusions reaffirm women’s rights in the world of work and address barriers such as the unequal distribution of unpaid care work.

Here in the UN, Germany has taken responsibility and has been a steadfast supporter for multilateralism and human rights over many years.

More than ever before, broad alliances are needed.