Statement by H.E. Ms. Þorbjörg Sigríður Gunnlaugsdóttir,
Minister of Justice
Commission of Women (CSW), 70th Session
General Debate, 10 March 2025

Madame chair, esteemed colleagues and guests

Iceland has long been one of the leading countries in the world when it comes to gender equality but progress towards gender equality does not happen on its own. In Iceland we have a long history of women fighting for every step we have taken towards gender equality. It is important to pay tribute to the courage and strength of these women who came before us and fought selflessly for gender equality. Their persistence and solidarity has been key to our success.  Together, we will continue to push forward—until equality is not something we strive for, but something we fully achieve.

Yesterday, we heard a battle cry. The Secretary General reminded us that now, well into the 21st century, justice remains a distant dream for millions of women and girls. 

We also heard human rights defender Malala Yousafzai say that speeches do not protect girls, but law, accountability and political courage can. And that now is the time for us to use them.  

Although I was relieved to see the agreed conclusions adopted with a clear majority yesterday, it is sad that we could not reach consensus around what I believe should be a basic document.

This is another example of the global backlash against human rights, freedom and gender equality. This includes a backlash against minority rights, including rights of LGBTI+ persons. 

We also see national backlash in many countries. Social media, algorithms and artificial intelligence magnify hate-speech, negative and abusive messaging, having devastating impact.

New technology offers great potential, but we need to make sure that it is used in a positive way, within a framework protecting the principles and rights of the global population, not least women and girls.

I hardly need to mention Iceland’s unwavering commitment to gender equality.  But its importance needs to be mentioned, or rather shouted from the rooftops, repeatedly and by us all.

Iceland’s road to gender equal society has not always been smooth. It is the result of decades long vision, and leadership. We have continued to set goals, make action plans – the most recent one focusing specifically on fighting gender-based violence against women nationally.

Active involvement of civil society has been important, as well as societal acceptance nationally.  

Gender-based violence continues because it is deeply rooted in inequality, harmful norms, and power imbalances. It is not inevitable — it is preventable. Prevention requires more than reacting after harm occurs. We have to confront uncomfortable truths, challenge attitudes that excuse abuse, and hold perpetrators accountable. It calls for coordinated action across sectors, including education, healthcare, justice systems. It requires lasting commitment. Ending gender-based violence is not beyond our reach; it is a responsibility we must actively choose to fulfill.

Thank you.