HLPF and HLS Ministerial Declaration final draft under silence procedure

The Co-facilitators have released the final draft of the Ministerial Declaration for the High-level Political Forum and the ECOSOC High-Level Segment. It is under silence procedure until 17.00 hours (New York time) today, 11 July. This means that it will be deemed accepted, unless any Member State breaks the silence.

The paragraph on health in this latest version (para 16) includes universal access to sexual and reproductive health-care services among the remaining major challenges. Efforts must be stepped up to combat HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections as well as other communicable diseases, while recognizing the impact of antimicrobial resistance. The paragraph also addresses commitments to the prevention and treatment of non-communicable diseases and preparedness for epidemic outbreaks. In addition, while it does not specifically refer to universal health coverage, it highlights the importance of strengthening inclusive and resilient health systems and addressing the social, economic and environmental determinants of health.

Regrettably, while the paragraph on gender equality (para 17) reaffirms commitments to take action to prevent and eliminate all forms of violence and discrimination against women and girls, it does not include child, early and forced marriage, nor female genital mutilation. In addition, there is no reference to target 5.6 on sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights.

Harnessing the demographic dividend is included in the paragraph that recognizes children, adolescents and youth as important agents of change. (para 6)