HRC62 - EU Statement - Panel 2: Commemoration of the International Day of Women in Diplomacy focusing on women’s right to work and representation in decision-making
UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL
62nd session
Annual full-day discussion on the human rights of women
Panel 2: Commemoration of the International Day of Women in Diplomacy focusing on
women’s right to work and representation in decision-making
24 June 2026
EU statement
Mr. President,
The right to work is a fundamental human right and a prerequisite for all women's full, equal and meaningful participation in decision-making. Further, the EU supports women’s and youth’ equal, full, effective and meaningful participation, in all their diversity and in all spheres of public and political life. But women continue to face persistent barriers in accessing decent work, advancing into leadership positions and influencing decisions in public administration, diplomacy and multilateral institutions, especially when faced with multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination.
The EU is committed to addressing these barriers through both its internal and external policies. Through the European Commission’s Gender Equality Strategy and Gender Action Plan III, we are working to advance women's economic empowerment, full, equal and meaningful participation in leadership and decision-making, and equal access to quality employment and social protection.
The EU has also taken concrete steps to address structural inequalities in the world of work, including through measures to strengthen pay transparency, improve work-life balance, end all forms of gender-based violence and harassment, and promote gender-balanced leadership. We remain committed to advancing gender parity within EU institutions and in our diplomatic representation.
Progress requires addressing the root causes of inequality, including the unequal distribution of unpaid care work, discriminatory social norms and gender stereotypes which continue to limit opportunities for many women and girls.
Mr. President,
Could you share the most effective measures to increase women's representation in leadership and decision-making, particularly in diplomacy and international organizations?
Thank you.