The United States has expressed its commendation for the successful adoption of the Agreed Conclusions at the 68th session of the Commission on the Status of Women. The conclusions aim to advance rights and opportunities for women and girls globally. Acknowledging the efforts of Ambassador Brandt, Robin, UN Women, and the CSW Bureau, a U.S. representative stated: "The United States prioritizes the work of the Commission as the principal global intergovernmental body exclusively dedicated to the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of all women."
This year's priority theme focused on addressing poverty's impact on diverse groups, including those with disabilities, Indigenous populations, migrants, rural communities, and notably for this session, women and girls of African descent. It also highlighted challenges faced by LGBTQI+ women and girls due to discriminatory barriers.
The U.S. welcomed language in the conclusions about preventing gender-based violence (GBV) but regretted that intimate partner violence (IPV) was not referenced. Additionally, while sexual and reproductive health (SRH) acknowledgments were supported, there was disappointment over missing references to comprehensive sexuality education.
"The Agreed Conclusions do not change the current state of conventional or customary international law," noted a U.S. spokesperson.