Egypt succeeded in coordinating with more than 95 countries to issue a joint statement during the 50th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, highlighting the pivotal role played by the family as the natural and fundamental unit of society, which has the right to enjoy the protection of society and the state.
Ambassador Ahmed Ihab Jamal El-Din, Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, said that the statement, which received support from various geographical regions, stressed that states are obliged to take specific measures to ensure the widest support and protection of this social institution and to strengthen its unity, sustainability and preservation.
In this context, Jamal al-Din explained the impact of the current Corona pandemic on the contribution of the family to the protection and promotion of human rights and reducing its potential as a key factor in the development of the state and society.
It has negatively affected the aspects of care provided by families to their members, especially children and the elderly, as well as the balance between work and family, gender equality and other aspects of family life.
The joint statement said that despite these challenges, families have played an important role in mitigating the impact of the pandemic through solidarity among their members, prompting countries to invest more in family-oriented policies and programs to strengthen Social Solidarity.
The statement also highlighted that achieving a balance between work and family is a crucial factor in mitigating the effects of pandemics on human rights and development.
The statement urged governments to develop strategies that focus on women’s empowerment and promote an equitable distribution of care and assistance responsibilities between men and women.
