Statement by Iceland on Human Rights Economy and Human Rights

Human Rights Council ‒ 56th session

Annual full-day discussion on the human rights of women:

Panel 2: Human rights economy and human rights

Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries

28 June 2024

Mr. President,

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.

This year marks a troubling milestone with global inequality increasing for the first time in 25 years. This setback is particularly gendered, with women and girls disproportionately affected, especially those facing multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination.  

Women encounter economic disparities that are often overlooked by economic systems. Although frequently perceived as gender-neutral, macroeconomic policies can perpetuate discrimination within societies where women encounter structural inequalities and barriers.

In pursuit of a global economy guided by human rights norms and standards, states must, through concerted efforts, strive to reform the international financial architecture and end all discriminatory and rights-violating practices that hinder gender equality.

In line with the Sustainable Development Goals and international efforts towards a more equitable world, we must eliminate all discriminatory practices that limit women’s economic rights.

To eradicate all forms of gender-based discrimination and to mitigate further proliferation of global inequalities, states must cultivate an enabling economic environment that embraces women in all their diversity, advances their rights and allows them to reach their fullest potential.

Esteemed panelists, given the alarming rise in global inequality, what legislative changes should be prioritized to effectively address structural inequalities that hinder gender equality?

I thank you.