Geneva: Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries expressed grave concern over the violations against Palestinian women and girls in Gaza Strip, the systematic destruction of health facilities, and the denial of care during pregnancy and childbirth.
According to Kuwait News Agency, this was conveyed in a speech by Kuwait's Permanent Representative to the United Nations and other international organizations in Geneva and Chairman of the Council of Ambassadors of GCC, Ambassador Naser Al-Hayen, during a session of the UN General Assembly in Geneva. The session focused on a report by the Special Rapporteur on Violence against Women, Reem Al-Salem, who highlighted the necessity of adhering to fundamental definitions of gender-based discrimination.
Al-Salem cautioned against disregarding language and concepts related to women, noting the serious consequences on their rights and safety, especially amid the absence of international law protections during conflicts, with a particular focus on Palestine.
Ambassador Al-Hayen voiced the GCC countries' appreciation for the Special Rapporteur's work in illuminating the different forms of gender-based violence faced by women and girls. He stressed the importance of developing international frameworks that prioritize legal concepts based on gender as essential for safeguarding women and girls.
He further highlighted the significance of incorporating the gender of women and girls into public policy planning to ensure their sustained protection as outlined in international agreements, while also respecting cultural and national contexts.
Ambassador Al-Hayen acknowledged Al-Salem's recent visit to the UAE, praising the progress in women's empowerment, legislative improvements, and efforts to enhance protection against violence. He also looked forward to her forthcoming visit to Kuwait in September, underscoring a commitment to ongoing collaboration with the mandates of the Special Procedures.