Joint Statement by the Geneva Group of Friends to Eliminate Sexual Harassment
Human Rights Council 51st Session
General Debate under Item 8
Follow-up to and implementation of the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action
The United States Joined the Following Joint Statement at the 51st Session of the Human Rights Council
As Delivered by Ambassador Panayotis Stoutnaras, Greece
Thank you Mr. President.
I have the honor to deliver this Statement on behalf of the Geneva Group of Friends to Eliminate Sexual Harassment.
Sexual harassment is a widespread phenomenon, deeply rooted in gender inequality and power imbalances. It can have a negative impact on the physical, psychological and mental health of victims and survivors, create an unsafe work environment and lead to loss of dignity and self-esteem.
This Group of Friends is a state-led platform designed to spur discussions in different multilateral fora towards the elimination of sexual harassment as well as sexual exploitation and abuse.
Our goal is to support ongoing efforts by international organizations, agencies and programmes in Geneva, exchange good practices and map relevant gaps.. The Group is always open for additional members.
Here at the Human Rights Council, there is the Gender Focal Point, and the Council has a zero tolerance policy for harassment, adhering to the UN Code of Conduct. We celebrate the updates received in this regard, but it is important to recognize that fighting sexual harassment is not a one-person job. We all need to work together for its eradication.
Herewith we urge all UN member states to lead by example It is important, both in our capital headquarters and within our own Missions here in Geneva, to build inclusive and supportive workplaces where sexual harassment is not tolerated and apply policies both for its prevention and for the adequate protection of its victims and survivors.
Thank you.
Signatories:
1. Albania
2. Argentina
3. Australia
4. Austria
5. Brazil
6. Canada
7. Colombia
8. Costa Rica
9. Croatia
10. Cyprus
11. Ecuador
12. Estonia
13. Fiji
14. France
15. Gambia
16. Georgia
17. Germany
18. Greece
19. Guatemala
20. Ireland
21. Israel
22. Kenya
23. Latvia
24. Liechtenstein
25. Malta
26. Mexico
27. Monaco
28. Montenegro
29. Morocco
30. Netherlands
31. North Macedonia
32. Norway
33. Panama
34. Republic of Korea
35. Senegal
36. Spain
37. Sweden
38. Thailand
39. United Kingdom
40. United States
41. European Union
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