UN Human Rights Council - 48th Session

Joint Statement

Delivered by H.E. Mr. Idan Roll, Deputy Foreign Minister of Israel on behalf of a Group of States

Check against delivery

2.5 min

Madam President,

Over the few last decades, around the world, as a consequence of various social, cultural, legal, political, and scientific changes, there has been an increased recognition of diverse and various forms of families that go beyond the so-called “traditional model” - of a mother, a father and biological children.

Their existence has been recognized, for example, at the International Conference on Population and Development (1994), the World Summit on Children (2002) and later by the General Assembly in its Resolution 59/147 (2004).

Acknowledging this reality will allow States to strive to ensure human rights of all, regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation or gender identity, marital status, etc.

Madam President,

It is undeniable that diversity exists in all families, thus the question that States should answer is not whether or not they exist, but rather how States can protect and support families in all their diversity. We must support people belonging to families in all their diversity and provide fact-based and tailored responses to diverse realities. Above all, States’ responses should focus on two foundations – equality and protection of all family members. States should endeavor to eliminate policies and practices that lead to differential treatment of families and promote awareness and understanding in society. Persons belonging to families in all their diversity must fully be able to enjoy their human rights, including to be protected from discrimination, abuse and violence and their different social, economic and other needs must be taken into account.

Madam President,

It has often been repeated in this Council that the family is the basic unit of society. It is an indisputable fact that various forms of families exist. We should work together to create more inclusive societies. Only societies that recognize, protect and embrace families in all their diversity can truly be inclusive and leave no one behind.

Thank you, Madam President.