Annual Discussion on the Human Rights of Women

Statement by the Delegation of the United States of America

As Delivered by Ambassador Michèle Taylor

Human Rights Council – 50^th Session

Thank you, Mr. Vice-President and thank you to all panelists.

I want to start by making it clear, as Secretary Blinken has stated, that under the Biden administration the U.S. will remain fully committed to helping provide access to reproductive health services and advancing reproductive rights at home and around the world. We will not waver from this commitment.

The U.S. National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence prioritizes preventing and responding to gender-based violence for women and girls in all their diversity, including for women and girls with disabilities and indigenous women and girls, all of whom are at higher risk.  Last March the landmark Violence Against Women Act was reauthorized, expanding prevention efforts, protections, and accountability for perpetrators, particularly for underserved populations who face multiple barriers to safety and justice.

Recognizing the increased risks and barriers survivors face during the COVID-19 pandemic, the United States directed nearly $1 billion in supplemental funding through the American Rescue Plan for domestic violence and sexual assault services.

At the 2022 Commission on the Status of Women session, we launched a multinational effort to address online gender-based violence (GBV).  The Global Partnership for Action on Gender-Based Online Harassment and Abuse brings together member states, international organizations, civil society, and private sector entities to better prioritize, understand, prevent, and address technology-facilitated GBV globally.

On the second theme of COVID-19’s socioeconomic effects on women, the U.S. National Strategy for the COVID-19 Response and Pandemic Preparedness commits to protecting those most at risk and to advancing equity.  The American Rescue Plan provides for $1,400 in direct payments to individuals and increased tax credits, which help support low-wage workers and cover childcare costs.  The Plan also invests $39 billion to help thousands of childcare providers, disproportionately comprised of women, to operate safely and avoid potential closure.  Overall, the Plan provides funding to state and local governments, which helps sustain essential services that women need.

I thank you.

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