Here is the link to the agenda of the conference – both the schedule for the formal events of the Conference and Side Events. Today I had the opportunity to deliver a statement in relation to Item 2 (b) Trafficking in Persons Protocol. Many of the points raised in the statement are the difficult points in the various negotiations taking place during the conference including allocation of sufficient resources.
“We are more conscious than ever of the interconnections between systemic root causes including poverty, gender inequality, the persistence of patriarchy, misogyny, DEMAND, gender based violence, including non-state torture, and sexual exploitation coupled with weak legislation, poor budgetary allocations and a dismal record in the number of persecutions recorded. All these factors compound to facilitate the flourishing of this criminal activity that violates human rights, and prey on peoples vulnerabilities and desires for a life of dignity and wellbeing.” The recommendations follow from this paragraph. COP 9 Vienna 2018 Statement Final See You Tube Video
Yesterday, Mirjam Beike deliver a statement in Geneva “We delivered a statement at the 4th Session of Open-ended Intergovernmental Working Group on Transnational Corporations in Geneva, in collaboration with the Sisters of Mercy, Mercy International Association and the Mining Working Group.” The original statement (longer version) can be found here:
Some photographs from Vienna
Thank you for your insightful presentation, Sr. Winifred. As you stated, to end violence against women we need to address the underlying causes. When people live in overcrowded conditions, lack food, with no hope for a better future, violence is inevitable. Most often, the violence will be directed against women.
Thank you Winifred. Wishing that the week will go well and be fruitful.