Did you miss it? Here’s what happened at HRC 58!

The 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council took place from 24 February to 04 April 2025. The ongoing liquidity crisis experienced by the United Nations, which deeply affects the Council’s functioning, has once again put civil society organisations under an additional and significant burden - especially when it comes to accessing hybrid modalities and organising side events. The United Nations Office at Geneva is now charging civil society for the use of interpretation booths at side events as well as for the use of any type of hybrid modality, such as Webex.

Below, you will find information on some of the key sexual rights-related:

Resolutions
Panel discussions
Oral statements
UPR Outcomes
Side Events

Featured News

The world we live in appears to be on the edge of significant shifts, as observed in multilateral institutions over the past few months, including during the 58th session of the Human Rights Council. Announcements about cuts to aid for both governments and civil society have profoundly impacted the UN, which is already reeling under liquidity and financial challenges and its own budget cuts. The implications for civil society are not fully understood by many institutions and civil society organisations, which are being forced to manage the imminent crisis before they can consider the longer-term consequences. Multilateral institutions and the organisations working with them must rise to the challenge of staying “relevant and meaningful”- a question that can only be answered by rights holders and the people most impacted. Reactionary politics and advocacy have proven unable to hide the gaping hole of the credibility crisis. As the HRC session coincided with the 30th anniversary of Beijing Platform for Action, feminist organisations have a responsibility to remember the activism, transnational solidarity, and collective action that led to the Platform’s adoption. We must move beyond our siloed and often transactional solidarity to something deeper and inherently political. The real question for many of us working with these institutions is to move beyond words to action. We must realise that, unlike states that are closing borders and further entrenching racist, misogynist and xenophobic policies, civil society must remain firm in its commitment to principles. We should insist on showing the connections between the macroeconomic architecture and human rights, and that sexuality and gender cannot be disconnected from our material conditions, and that self-determination is not subject to any conditions or qualifications - financial, social or colonial.

Addressing Preventable Maternal Mortality and Morbidity: An Intersectional and Systems-Based Approach

SRI Side-event at HRC 58 organised in collaboration with AWID, the International Dalit Solidarity Network, Frontline AIDS, the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (PMNCH), Women Deliver, IPPF, ILGA, UNFPA and the Center for Reproductive Rights.

Despite global commitments to reducing maternal mortality and morbidity, a 2023 study from the WHO revealed that maternal mortality and morbidity (MMM) have either stagnated or worsened in most regions of the world between 2016 and 2020. According to the WHO, approximately 287,000 women died during pregnancy or childbirth in 2020, with the vast majority of these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries. Within the current context, the systemic underfunding of health systems, particularly in marginalised communities, leads to inadequate infrastructure, shortages of skilled healthcare providers, and limited access to essential services.

Our panelists discussed the importance of applying a human rights-based approach to preventing and eliminating maternal mortality and morbidity. They also foregrounded that this approach should necessarily take into account the structural and systemic contexts, the state of health systems, and the programming on women's and girls' health, including sexual and reproductive health and rights.

Watch some clips from our panellists' presentations here and here.

Sexual Rights-related Resolutions

Question of the realisation in all countries of economic, social and cultural rights – A/HRC/58/L.7

Led by Portugal and co-sponsored by 36 other countries as of 03 April 2025. The resolution was adopted by consensus.

The resolution focuses on the realisation of economic, social, and cultural rights globally, emphasising their interdependence with sustainable development. The resolution acknowledges the role of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and various international agreements, including the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. It underlines the importance of ensuring access to social protection, quality public services, and equitable economic policies to promote human dignity and reduce inequalities, particularly for marginalised groups.

Additionally, the resolution stresses the need for international financial reform to close the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) financing gap, particularly for developing nations. It accurately raises concerns about economic disruptions, climate change, and unsustainable debt burdens, which hinder the realisation of economic, social, and cultural rights. The resolution urges countries to adopt fair taxation policies, combat illicit financial flows, and mobilise public resources to finance sustainable development. It calls for strengthening legal frameworks, expanding social protection, and ensuring accountability through national and international mechanisms. Furthermore, the resolution requests reports and studies to monitor progress and guide future actions on these issues.

One amendment was tabled by Russia, Belarus, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Eritrea, Iran, Venezuela and Zimbabwe. It asked for the inclusion of language urging States to refrain from promulgating and applying any unilateral economic, financial or trade measures not in accordance with international law. It was rejected by 24 votes against, 9 in favour and 13 abstentions.

Watch the discussion and adoption.

Human rights defenders and new and emerging technologies: protecting human rights defenders, including women human rights defenders, in the digital age – A/HRC/58/L.27 as orally revised

Led by Norway and co-sponsored by 65 other countries as of 04 April 2025. The resolution was adopted by consensus.

The resolution addresses the protection of human rights defenders (HRDs), particularly women HRDs, in the digital age. It highlights the dual role of new and emerging technologies, which can empower HRDs by enabling their work while posing significant risks, such as surveillance, hacking, online harassment, and Internet shutdowns. The resolution condemns violence, intimidation, and discriminatory practices against HRDs, both online and offline, and calls on states to ensure accountability, uphold international human rights law, and create safe environments for HRDs. It emphasises the need for universal digital connectivity, safeguards against the misuse of technologies like AI and spyware, and gender-responsive measures to address online violence disproportionately targeting women and girls.

The resolution urges states to bridge digital divides, promote encryption and anonymity tools, and refrain from actions like Internet shutdowns that hinder HRDs' work. It also underscores the responsibility of businesses, especially tech companies, to respect human rights and conduct due diligence. Additionally, the resolution requests the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights to organise regional workshops and prepare a report on risks posed by digital technologies to HRDs, with recommendations for mitigating these challenges.

A total of 4 amendments were tabled. One was withdrawn and the other three were rejected by vote. The amendments are provided below:

Insert language that human rights defenders' rights may be limited in accordance with international law, where necessary to protect others' rights, public order, morality, or democratic welfare, tabled by Russia, co-sponsored by China, and withdrawn.
Insert “criminalisation for legitimate activities” throughout the text, tabled by Russia, co-sponsored by China, and rejected by 26 votes against, 4 in favour and 15 abstentions.
Insert a paragraph stressing that the mandate holder shall discharge his or her duties in accordance with the HRC IB Package and the Code of Conduct for Special Procedures, tabled by Russia, co-sponsored by China, and rejected by 23 votes against, 10 in favour and 14 abstentions.
Insert references to “unilateral economic, financial or trade measures or any other measures”, tabled by Russia, co-sponsored by China, and rejected by 24 votes against, 7 in favour and 15 abstentions.

Watch the discussion and adoption.

Women, diplomacy and human rights – A/HRC/58/L.15

Led by Morocco, Chile, Maldives, Mauritius, Mexico, Slovenia and Spain, and co-sponsored by 87 other countries as of 3 April 2025. The resolution was adopted by consensus.

The resolution focuses on advancing gender equality in diplomacy by promoting women’s full, equal, and meaningful participation in international decision-making. It highlights persistent systemic barriers to women’s representation in diplomacy and multilateral forums, reaffirming commitments under key instruments like the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and the Beijing Declaration. It urges states and international organisations to ensure women’s safe and equal participation at all levels of diplomacy, including in the UN system, and to address issues like sexual harassment and digital violence. It encourages data collection, advocacy for leadership roles, and multisectoral policies to dismantle structural barriers. It also commemorates the International Day of Women in Diplomacy (24 June) through panel discussions during Human Rights Council sessions.

Watch the discussion and adoption.

Other relevant resolutions

The negative impact of unilateral coercive measures on the enjoyment of human rights (Uganda, on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries) - A/HRC/58/L.1
Effects of foreign debt and other related international financial obligations of States on the full enjoyment of all human rights, particularly economic, social and cultural rights (Cuba) - A/HRC/58/L.14
Human rights, democracy and the rule of law (Romania, Morocco, Norway, Peru, Republic of Korea, Tunisia) - A/HRC/58/L.17/Rev.1
Open-ended intergovernmental working group for the elaboration of a legally binding instrument on the promotion and protection of the human rights of older persons (Argentina, Brazil, Gambia, Philippines, Slovenia) - A/HRC/58/L.24/Rev.1
Mandate of Special Rapporteur on the right to food (Cuba) - A/HRC/58/L.12
The human right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment: the ocean and human rights (Maldives, Costa Rica, Morocco, Slovenia) - A/HRC/58/L.26/Rev.1
Mandate of Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism (Mexico) - A/HRC/58/L.29

Sexual Rights-related Discussions

Annual high-level panel discussion on human rights mainstreaming

Theme: Thirtieth anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action

The panel discussion brought together high-level representatives from UN agencies, Member States, and other stakeholders to mark the 30th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women and the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. The discussion served as a platform to reaffirm the importance of the commitments made in Beijing. Participants reviewed progress over the past three decades, discussed the document’s continued relevance in tackling persistent and new challenges, and explored ways to accelerate progress toward full gender equality and human rights for all women and girls.

Watch the debate on UN Web TV. SRI made a joint statement during the panel discussion, which you can watch here.

Panel discussion on the realisation of human rights in sustaining and increasing the gains made in the HIV response and leaving no one behind

The panel discussion provided a platform to share achievements, reforms, and good practices in advancing sustainable HIV responses while highlighting key measures related to funding, investments, and capacity-building, particularly for transitioning settings. It explored ways to harness innovative approaches and technologies to ensure equitable and affordable access to HIV services. It examined intersectional challenges in protecting human rights within HIV responses, with a focus on key populations, women, and girls. Additionally, the discussion emphasised strengthening partnerships, coordination, and collaboration to enhance the long-term effectiveness of HIV response strategies.

Watch the debate on UN Web TV. SRI made a statement during the panel discussion, which you can watch here.

SRI Oral Statements

SRI statement to the Interactive dialogue with the Independent Expert on foreign debt, commenting on her report on the landscape of climate finance, debt, tax and illicit financial flows and human rights. Watch the interactive dialogue, as well as our statement, on UN Web TV.
SRI statement to the Panel discussion on the realisation of human rights in sustaining and increasing the gains made in the HIV response and leaving no one behind. Watch the panel discussion and our statement on UN Web TV.

Joint oral statements

Joint statement with the Association for Women’s Rights in Development (AWID), the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom (WILPF), ILGA World and Women Deliver for the Annual high-level panel discussion on human rights mainstreaming: Thirtieth anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. Watch the statement on UN Web TV.
Joint statement with Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights, YWCA Hamilton and Barbra Schlifer Clinic during the interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on housing, commenting on his report on a just approach to the global housing crisis and migrants. Watch the dialogue on UN Web TV.

Two joint statements during the interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities, commenting on her report on Thirty years of implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action: its potential for women and girls with disabilities.
- Joint statement with Rising Flame, CREA, Women Enabled International, Deaf Women Included, and Diverse Empowerment Foundation
- Joint statement with the Women Gaining Ground Consortium, Women Enabled International, Deaf Women Included and Triumph Mental Health Support
Joint statement with the #EmptyChairs Campaign, ISHR, ILGA World and FIDH during the General Debate on Item 5 (Human rights bodies and mechanisms), commenting on the reports on Special Procedures’ work presented by the Chair of the Coordination Committee of Special Procedures. Watch the Chair’s presentation and the statement being delivered on UN Web TV.
Joint statement with ILGA World, Women Deliver, COC Nederland, Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom (WILPF) and the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) during General Debate on Item 8 (Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action), about the human rights dimensions of austerity measures promoted by International Financial Institutions and the international debt architecture. Watch the statement on UN Web TV.
Joint statement with Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom (WILPF), ALTSEAN-Burma, the Center for Reproductive Rights, Franciscans International, ILGA World, International Service for Human Rights (ISHR), MenEngage Global Alliance and Women Deliver, on International Women’s Day 2025. Watch the statement on UN Web TV.
UPR outcome of Albania: joint statement with the Gender Alliance for Development Center. Watch the adoption.
UPR outcome of Costa Rica: joint statement with Asociación La Sala. Watch the adoption.
UPR outcome of Ethiopia: joint statement with SRHR Africa Trust, Plan International, and the Forum for African Women Educationalists. Watch the adoption.
UPR outcome of Democratic Republic of the Congo: joint statement with the International Youth Alliance for Family Planning DRC. Watch the adoption.

UPR Outcomes

The 58th session included the adoption of the outcomes of countries reviewed during the 47th working group session of the Universal Periodic Review, which took place from 04 November 2024 to 15 November 2024. The council adopted 13 outcomes from the reviews of the following countries: Norway, Albania, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Portugal, Bhutan, Dominica, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Brunei Darussalam, Costa Rica, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, and Qatar. Nicaragua was reviewed, but did not have its outcome adopted due to the country’s disengagement with the Human Rights Council. The Bureau of the Human Rights Council proposed the following oral decision to be considered:

The Council (i) calls upon Nicaragua to resume cooperation with the UPR mechanism; (ii) requests the President of the Human Rights Council to take all appropriate steps and measures, in accordance with his mandate, to urge Nicaragua to resume cooperation with the UPR mechanism; (iii) also requests the President to report on the results of his efforts to the Council at its 59th session, and if need be, at its 60th session; and (iv) decides to postpone the consideration and adoption of the UPR outcome of Nicaragua to the 60th session, while leaving a possibility for it to be scheduled at an earlier date if Nicaragua were to resume cooperation.

The decision was adopted by consensus.

SRI collaborated with organisations and activists to prepare reports for the UPR reviews of Albania, Bhutan, Costa Rica, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, and Nicaragua.

We made a joint statement with the Gender Alliance for Development Center on the adoption of Albania’s UPR outcome. Watch the adoption here. At the UPR outcome of Costa Rica, we made a joint statement with Asociación La Sala. Watch the adoption. We have also made a joint statement on the adoption of the UPR of Ethiopia. At the adoption of the UPR of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, we made a joint statement with the International Youth Alliance for Family Planning DRC.

SRI Side Events

Addressing Preventable Maternal Mortality and Morbidity: An Intersectional and Systems-Based Approach

Maternal mortality and morbidity remain critical global health challenges, with an estimated 287,000 maternal deaths occurring annually, the majority of which are preventable. Structural inequalities and inequities, such as systemic racism, casteism, gender discrimination, and socio-economic disparities, exacerbate the rates of maternal mortality and morbidity, disproportionately impacting marginalised populations. An intersectional approach is critical for tailoring effective responses to maternal mortality and morbidity as it acknowledges and addresses the complex interplay of multiple factors that contribute to such public health challenges. Additionally, a systems-based approach to health—emphasising strengthened healthcare infrastructure, equitable access to quality services, cross-sector collaboration, community engagement, and accountability mechanisms—is vital, and it is a precondition for ensuring that individual sectors will deliver quality goods and services to all. This approach ensures that health is treated as one piece of a larger mosaic instead of a stand-alone right fractured away from other entitlements that determine people’s ability to live decent lives.

Global health outcomes are heavily determined by political, and economic power structures. For example, the proliferation of external global health initiatives driven by donor priorities, and tied to donor conditionalities has exacerbated fragmentation within health systems, leading to policy and data collection incoherence, parallel and inefficient supply chains, and an absence of accountability, undermining efforts to build resilient, integrated health systems capable of addressing preventable maternal morbidity and mortality equitably. For some Global South countries, these challenges are being compounded by structural adjustment programmes and austerity measures imposed by IFIs, leading to the defunding of public health services, disproportionately affecting maternal health care. For example, austerity measures have exacerbated healthcare worker shortages and disparities in healthcare worker density between low- and high-income countries.

This side event examined this issue through an intersectional lens and explored how systemic racism, casteism and social-economic inequalities perpetuate health disparities.

Speakers:

Rajat Khosla, Executive Director of the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn & Child Health (PMNCH)
Nomtika Mjwana, Human Rights Advocacy Lead at Frontline AIDS
Emeline Dupuis, Advocacy Advisor at the Sexual Rights Initiative

Moderated by Umyra Ahmad, AWID

Ending AIDS for all: the critical role of human rights in a sustainable and equitable response

Recent global cuts in aid, particularly to key funding streams, have severely impacted communities living with HIV, limiting access to essential healthcare and treatment. This has worsened disparities, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

We are facing a critical global challenge. Despite significant progress, we are at risk of regressing, with a growing global health threat. Civil society resources are shrinking, human rights protections are under threat, and investments needed to achieve the SDGs—especially ending AIDS—are insufficient.

Criminalising laws and widespread stigma deter these groups from accessing the services and protections they need to protect themselves, their partners and their communities from HIV. Gender inequality, as well as human rights violations against key populations, also contribute to undermining a sustainable HIV response. These are not theoretical issues—they are tangible barriers that perpetuate the epidemic.

Co organised by ILGA World, Frontline AIDS, International Community of Women Living with HIV (ICW), and The Sexual Rights Initiative, with the support of the permanent missions of Colombia, Brazil, and Portugal, this side event outlined a path forward for governments, UN agencies, and civil society in ensuring a human rights-based, sustainable HIV response.

Speakers: