In the present report, the Working Group on discrimination against women and girls calls for a radical shift in how situations of crisis are identified and addressed, by drawing attention to the non-enjoyment by women and girls of their basic sexual and reproductive health rights as a significant impediment to gender equality, resulting from the persistent failure of States to adequately respect, protect and fulfil those rights. The Working Group examines a number of threats and risks posed to the sexual and reproductive health and autonomy of women and girls, before and during crisis-related events, which are underpinned and exacerbated by various forms of systemic disadvantages and discrimination. It notes promising practices and makes recommendations to address crucial gaps, which will require a radical shift in how crises are managed and addressed from the perspective of women and girls in accordance with their human rights.
Activities
The present report covers the activities of the Working Group on discrimination against women and girls, from the time of submission of its previous report (A/HRC/44/51) to April 2021.
Sessions
In the context of the restrictions due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, the Working Group held three sessions virtually during the period under review. At its twenty-eighth session, from 6 to 10 July 2020, it held meetings with representatives of civil society organizations, discussed future position papers and methodological matters and focused on the present thematic analysis.
At the twenty-ninth session, held from 12 to 16 October 2020, the experts met with the then newly appointed Special Rapporteur on the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health and the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders. They also met with the main sponsor of the mandate of the Working Group and organized a farewell gathering for the outgoing member from the Latin America and Caribbean region and an introductory session for the new member of the Working Group.
At its thirtieth session, held on 19 and from 22 to 25 January 2021, the Working Group held meetings with civil society organizations, organized a well-attended meeting with Member States and worked on its thematic report. The Working Group also discussed possible future thematic priorities.
