Oxfam reaction to creation of a new UN women's agency

Daniela Rosche, Head of Oxfam’s gender campaign said:

“While we welcome the principle to agree on this much-needed women's agency, the attitude of some member states to weaken its mandate at the last minute is deplorable. This decision to have a new women's rights entity in place will mean absolutely nothing if member states fail to give it a clear mission.

“The good news is that the new agency has the potential to streamline decision-making and programming related to women’s rights under one overarching agency. This body doesn’t add another layer to the already heavy UN bureaucracy. The potential to have an impact on women’s lives – through education, organizing and empowerment - is very real and exciting.“

“In the resolution, any reference to the agency's future mandate has been deleted. But it’s not too late to turn things around. The leadership of Secretary-General Ban is urgently needed to ensure that the momentum is not lost and women's rights get the political backing they deserve. The swift appointment of an Under-Secretary General will help ensure an effective conclusion of this process by next year.”