New York, United States. Gender equality commissioner Josie Christodolou called on countries to commit to ensuring women have unhindered access to legal systems that safeguard their rights, citing a serious global backsliding on gender equality.
Call for gender-sensitive justice
Representing the EU Council at the 70th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women in New York, Christodoulou said millions of women and girls still face social and structural barriers to the protection of their rights.
She cited costly legal procedures, discriminatory laws and prevailing stereotypes that continue to exist, including within the judiciary.
“Justice is the foundation that allows women and girls to fully exercise their rights,” she said, adding that a gender-sensitive justice system is fundamental to achieving gender equality and realising the rights of all women and girls.
Cyprus EU Presidency priorities and digital violence
Christodoulou said gender equality has been established as a cross-cutting policy priority within Cyprus’ ongoing EU Presidency, with particular emphasis on preventing cyberbullying of females.
“Digital violence is not virtual; its consequences are real and lasting,” she said, adding that digital spaces must become safe and empowering environments for women and girls.
She also highlighted the potential of digital tools to increase access to justice mechanisms through information, access to relevant services and support structures.
National strategy and action plan measures
Christodoulou said measures proposed under the national strategy for gender mainstreaming include improved cooperation with civil society, gender budgeting, targeted actions and strengthening institutions.
She added that a national action plan to combat and prevent violence against women has been established, providing for a national database on violence against women, training opportunities for professionals, improved support mechanisms for women and adjusted protocols for handling incidents of sexual violence.
What steps do you think are most effective in ensuring women can access justice without barriers?
