Blog of Stacy Ciulik, SI Representative to the UN in Geneva.
The 30th Anniversary of the International Year of the Family is a timely moment to reflect on the important role that families play in upholding and protecting human rights across the world. On 25 September 2024, the 25th meeting of the 57th session of the Human Rights Council took place, with a panel discussion focusing on the implementation of Member States’ obligations regarding the role of the family in supporting the human rights of its members. This discussion was mandated by the resolution adopted by the Human Rights Council on 12 October 2023 (HRC res. 54/17).
Opening Remarks: Celebrating Families in All Their Forms
In her opening statement, Nada Al Nashif, Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, highlighted that families offer us “our first introduction to love; to care; to support and empowerment, enabling us to grow to our fullest potential”. Al Nashif urged that families be celebrated in all their diversity, noting that only one in three households worldwide consists of a couple with children, according to UN Women’s report, “Progress of the world’s women 2019–2020: Families in a changing world.” She emphasised that family structures should be free from discrimination and violence to ensure that all family members can enjoy their human rights. Additionally, she pointed to a World Bank report revealing that in 85 countries, women do not have equal rights in terms of marriage, divorce, and inheritance – a stark reminder of the work still to be done.
Key Contributions from the Panellists
The panel featured insights from experts across various fields, each bringing their unique perspective to the conversation.
- Ms. Haina Lu, from the Working Group on Discrimination against Women and Girls, shared successful practices that have been implemented in various countries, urging Member States to adopt these measures into law. She particularly emphasised raising the legal age of marriage to 18, equal access to education for girls, and financial incentives to support families in this pursuit.
- Mr. Umberto Cattaneo, Public Finance Economist at the International Labour Organisation, stressed that social security is a fundamental human right and a powerful tool against poverty and hunger. However, in 2023, only 52% of the world’s population was covered by at least one social security benefit, with women typically having lower coverage than men. In low-income countries, only 9.7% of the population is covered. Mr. Cattaneo urged Member States to invest in care services, as two-thirds of unpaid care work is carried out by women, which limits their participation in the labour market. He also referenced the upcoming Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development in July 2025 in Spain, which will focus on closing the financing gap for social security and accelerating the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.
- Dr. Roqayah Ajaj, a Saudi Arabian entrepreneur and disability rights advocate, shared her impressive and inspirational personal journey as a blind woman navigating the education system with the crucial support of her family. She encouraged States to adopt and enforce policies to protect and support families with members who have disabilities, acknowledging the challenges these families face.
- Mr. Sami Jaber, International Policy Officer at 5Rights Foundation, discussed the impact of the digital environment on children’s rights. He referenced the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child’s General Comment No. 25, which addresses children’s rights in relation to the digital environment. He called for companies to be held accountable for the platforms they provide and for Member States to support families in navigating the digital world, particularly for the protection of children.
Member States’ Responses
Speakers from various Member States and groups of Member States reiterated the importance of the family structure in society. They emphasised the need for family-friendly policies to protect the human rights of all family members and called for the empowerment and equal participation of women and girls.
Conclusion: A Path Forward
This discussion at the Human Rights Council underscores the vital role families play in promoting human rights and supporting the well-being of all their members. As we commemorate the 30th anniversary of the International Year of the Family, it is crucial to continue advocating for family structures free from discrimination and violence and to ensure that families, in all their diversity, are empowered to thrive.