Washington, D.C., November 20, 2024 – In a step forward for the advancement of human rights worldwide, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)s Third Committee has approved a groundbreaking resolution on Child, Early, and Forced Marriage (A/C.3/79/L.19/REV.1) that tackles pressing concerns like abductions, human trafficking, and forced religious conversions that disproportionately impact women and girls. This momentous ruling was reached during the committees’ session on November 18th and signifies a crucial milestone in the continuous struggle for religious liberty and safeguarding vulnerable communities.
The resolution regarding Child Marriage and Forced Marriages was achieved through the efforts of more than 60 groups and people committed to advocating for human rights and social equality. The approved wording specifically emphasizes the importance of tackling the lack of accountability in cases of kidnappings. Forced conversions carried out by armed groups and non-state entities. This acknowledgment is vital as it shines a light on a worldwide problem that has often been ignored in global conversations.
Jonas Fiebrantz, serving as the Chair of the UN Working Group for the International Religious Freedom Roundtable, representing ADF International, and Vice President of the United Nations Geneva NGO Committee on FoRB, highlighted the significance of cooperation in reaching this milestone. Thanks to our joint advocacy efforts, our proposals were taken up by the European Union delegation, who successfully inserted this language into the revised draft. This progress is a testament to the power of collaboration.” The resolution was unanimously backed by all 193 member states as a show of unity in protecting the rights and dignity of those, in situations.
The resolution urges countries to enhance measures to prevent and protect women and children at risk of violations by tackling violence carried out by non state entities and armed groups alike. It draws from language put forth in the UN Human Rights Council in 2023 but includes practical safeguards to make the resolution implementable. This signifies a milestone, as it is the instance where the UN has acknowledged forced religious conversions in a General Assembly resolution. This breakthrough highlights a shift in discussions on freedom that had been stalled since 2011 due to political standoffs.
The approval of this resolution isn’t a win in process terms; it shows an increasing worldwide understanding of the importance of tackling serious injustices experienced by women and girls. The IRF Roundtable has been instrumental in pushing for this resolution. Is committed to making sure that the language agreed upon leads to real protections for the most at-risk individuals. The team is eager for the United Nations General Assembly to officially adopt this resolution in December and for member states around the world to put it into action.
In a time when the world faces challenges regarding freedom and human rights issues alike, this resolution shines as a symbol of optimism and unity in the fight against abductions and coerced conversions. Showcasing the strength found in working together and the dedicated efforts of supporters globally to build a safer and fairer world for everyone.
In the few months ahead, the main aim will be to make sure that the promises outlined in this resolution are not just acknowledged but put into action as well, resulting in tangible safeguards for those in most need. The IRF Roundtable and its collaborators are ready to persist in their support, making certain that the concerns of the at-risk populations are listened to and their entitlements safeguarded across all regions worldwide.
