Fourth World Conference WOM/BEI/38 on Women 15 September 1995 16th Meeting (PM) FOURTH WORLD CONFERENCE ON WOMEN ADOPTS 'BEIJING DECLARATION AND PLATFORM OF ACTION', CONCLUDES TWO-WEEK SESSION Conference President Chen Muhua Says Meetings Would Be Remembered For Unprecedented Size and Scale, and as Being Milestone for Cause of Women The Fourth World Conference on Women this afternoon agreed on a wide range of measures to hasten the removal of the remaining obstacles to women's full and equal participation in all spheres of life, to protect women's human rights and to integrate their concerns into all aspects of sustainable development, as it concluded the work of its two-week session. Through its unanimous adoption of the "Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action", the Conference, which began on 4 September, approved a comprehensive plan for the international community to promote the status of women to the ultimate benefit of society as a whole. In the Declaration, Governments recognize the leading role that women have played in the peace movement, call for elimination of all forms of violence against women and girls, and pledge to intensify efforts to ensure equal enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms for women and girls. The Platform for Action identifies objectives and actions in 12 critical areas of concern: poverty, education, health, violence, armed and other conflicts, economic participation, power-sharing and decision-making, national and international machineries, human rights, mass media, environment and development, and the needs of the girl-child. Recommendations are addressed to various elements of the international community, particularly governments, international financial institutions, bilateral donors, the private sector, academic and research institutions, non-governmental organizations and the mass media. (more) Conference on Women - 2 - Press Release WOM/BEI/38 16th Meeting (AM) 15 September 1995 "My dear sisters and brothers, we have made it!", Conference Secretary- General Gertrude Mongella declared in a closing statement. The Conference had succeeded in transcending historical and cultural complexities, socio-economic disparities and diversities and maintaining the common vision and goal of equality, development and peace, and in a number of areas, expanding the horizons of previous Conferences. A consensus document, the Platform for Action was finally achieved. (The text of Ms. Mongella's is contained in Press Release WOM/BEI/39, issued earlier today.) The Platform for Action was a powerful agenda for the empowerment of women, calling for the integration of gender perspectives in all policies and programme, United Nations Secretary-General Boutros Boutros-Ghali said through a message read out on his behalf by his Special Representative, Ismat Kittani. It should be disseminated globally, regionally and locally. The recommendations addressed to the Secretary-General would be implemented swiftly and efficiently. (The text of the Secretary-General's statement is contained in Press Release WOM/BEI/37, issued earlier today). Conference President Chen Muhua, of China, stated that through common efforts, the Fourth World Conference on Women had achieved complete success. The women of the world had been following the Conference closely and it had lived up to their expectations. The Conference would be remembered as having been unprecedented in size and scale and as being a milestone for the cause of women throughout the world. Patricia B. Licuanan (Philippines), Chairperson of the Main Committee, introduced the Committee's report, which includes the Declaration and Platform for Action. The representative of the Philippines, speaking on behalf of the "Group of 77" developing countries, introduced the draft resolution entitled "Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action" (A/CONF.177/L.9). The draft resolution was adopted without a vote. Reservations and understandings were expressed by the representatives of Kuwait, Egypt, the Philippines, the Holy See, Malaysia, Iran, Libya, Ecuador, Indonesia, Mauritania, Oman, Malta, Peru, Argentina, Brunei Darussalam, France, Yemen, Sudan, Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, United Arab Emirates, Venezuela, Bahrain, Lebanon, Tunisia, Mali, Benin, Guatemala, India, Algeria, Iraq, Vanuatu, Ethiopia, Morocco, Djibouti, Qatar, Togo, Liberia, Syria, Pakistan, Nigeria, Comoros, Bolivia, Colombia, Bangladesh, Honduras, Jordan, Ghana, Central African Republic, Cambodia, Maldives, South Africa, the United Republic of Tanzania, Panama, El Salvador, Madagascar, Chad, Cameroon, Niger, Gabon, and the observer for Palestine. (more) Conference on Women - 3 - Press Release WOM/BEI/38 16th Meeting (AM) 15 September 1995 The draft report of the Conference was adopted without a vote, as orally revised. It was introduced by Conference Rapporteur-General Netumbo Nandi- Ndaitwah, the Deputy Foreign Minister of Namibia. Also this morning, the Conference adopted a draft resolution expressing gratitude to the people and Government of China, the host country. It was introduced by the representative of the Philippines, speaking on behalf of the Group of 77. The representative of France said that his country had submitted a text to the Secretariat on the issue of nuclear testing, in exercise of its right of reply. He requested that it be circulated as a document of the Conference. Closing statements were also made on behalf of the regional groups, as follows: by the Philippines, for the Group of 77; by Spain, for the European Union; by Senegal, for the African States; by Papua New Guinea, for the Asian States; by Ukraine, for the Eastern European States; by Barbados, for the Latin American and Caribbean States; and by Malta, for the Western European and Other States. The representatives of the United States and Canada also spoke. (For additional information on the Declaration and the Platform for Action, see Press Release WOM/BEI/40, issued earlier today.) (more) Conference on Women - 4 - Press Release WOM/BEI/38 16th Meeting (PM) 15 September 1995 PATRICIA B. LICUANAN (Philippines), Chairperson of the Main Committee, presented the report of the Committee containing the draft, which was approved by the Committee at 5 a.m. today: We take pride in the Platform for Action and the Declaration because they capture the gains made since Nairobi, as well as areas yet to be addressed. They reflect the reality of women's lives. The Platform is a blueprint to guide governments in building a world of women in complete equality with men. It addresses the structures and systems which, for generations, have kept women wanting for even the most basic things of life; that tolerate violations against women; that exclude women from decisions that affect them; and that marginalize women and children, especially the girl-child. By the adoption of the Declaration and Platform, and by subsequent implementation of these commitments at home, we may actually make a difference in the lives of women and in shaping a better society. Let it be said by our children and by future generations that the Fourth World Conference for Women in Beijing was a turning point for women, for equality, development and peace. LETICIA RAMOS-SHAHANI (Philippines), speaking on behalf of the "Group of 77" developing countries, introduced the draft resolution entitled "Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action" (A/CONF.177/L.9). By its operative paragraphs, the Conference would adopt the Declaration and Platform for Action annexed to the report of the Main Committee. It would also recommend that the United Nations General Assembly, at its forthcoming session, endorse the Declaration and Platform for Action. The draft resolution was adopted without a vote. Reservations and Understandings Kuwait expressed a reservation regarding every phrase that runs counter to the Islamic law and the values of the Islamic community, particularly paragraphs 232(f), 107(k) and 96 and 97. Egypt said its participation in the Conference reflects its commitment to the advancement and promotion of women. Its understanding of the text in the Platform regarding sexual relations and reproductive relations is that such relations should be within the family and the marriage. Its understanding of the paragraphs regarding inheritance, especially paragraph 274 (d), would be within full respect for the rules of inheritance in Islamic law and our Constitutions. The Philippines supported the individual's right to have control and freely decide on matters regarding his or her sexuality. However, that does not mean it condones or promotes abortion as a means of family planning, which is not in accordance with national laws. In the paragraph on gender-based violence, the Philippines would have (more) Conference on Women - 5 - Press Release WOM/BEI/38 16th Meeting (PM) 15 September 1995 liked to avoid any qualification to the word "prostitution". It is happy to see the paragraph on migration, calling on governments to protect the welfare of women migrants, especially women migrant workers. It also appreciates the paragraph on unremunerated work in the household. The Holy See: The documents are full of promise but often short on concrete commitments. The living heart of these documents lies in their sections on women in poverty, development, literacy, education, violence against women, building a culture of peace, and access to employment, land, capital and technology. However, the Holy See strongly disagrees with an exaggerated individualism, in which key relevant provisions of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights are slighted, such as the obligation to provide special care to motherhood. We must do more than simply provide lip-service. We can do more for women's health needs than focusing on fertility and sexual issues, using language which implies societal endorsement of homosexuality. A document that respects women's intelligence should devote at least as much attention to literacy as to fertility. The Holy See associates itself with the consensus only on those elements of the documents which it considers to be positive and in the service of women. Its participation in the consensus can therefore only be a qualified one. The delegation will submit its reservations in writing, in juridical form. Malaysia: The Platform of Action is an achievement for all women. However, we express reservations about paragraphs 107 (k) and 109 (K). Interpretation given in other provisions need clarification including: the definition given to family, individuals and couples; reproductive rights, which should apply only to married couples in a union between a man and a woman; sexual rights should not be taken to mean sexual promiscuity and other practices, such as homosexual rights; abortion, which is illegal in Malaysia, should only be allowed in medical emergencies. While acknowledging information on healthy sexual practices is necessary in light of the dangers from sexually transmitted diseases and the AIDS virus, parental guidance should not be dismissed and unacceptable practices condoned. Iran: Although the family is the basic unit of society, the Platform of Action falls short of recognizing its importance. The provisions paragraphs 97 and 231(f) can only be interpreted in the context of health and traditional marital relations. Iran upholds the principle that safe and responsible relations between men and women can only be legitimized within the confines of marriage. References in the Platform of Action to the issue of inheritance do not contradict the economic system of Iran. Iran affirms its commitment to the Platform of Action. Libya appreciates the Main Committee's efforts to agree on language which reflects the views of various delegations. However, it does not accept any imposition by any culture of its values on others. Sexual relations between men and women cannot be accepted outside marriage. We take a reservation to any reference to sexual education (more) Conference on Women - 6 - Press Release WOM/BEI/38 16th Meeting (PM) 15 September 1995 and reproductive health for non-married couples and outside the family. The phrase regarding individuals and the basic right to spouses to determine responsibly the spacing and number of their children is not given by our society except within the legitimate relationship of marriage. On abortion, our local laws only accept abortion to save the life of the mother. We also have reservations regarding the passages on inheritance by women. Ecuador: Through positive action, women will be able to raise their standard of living in social, cultural, political and professional areas. The use of new technology will promote that objective and enable women to join the labour force on an equal footing with men. The family is the basis of society and, as such, should fully be protected. In Ecuador, there is a right to family planning, but provoked abortion is deemed a crime. We commit to do our utmost to foster women's political, social and economic development. Some aspects of the Platform are not contemplated in Ecuadorian law. It therefore has reservations to those items mentioned in the Cairo Declaration which are cited in the Platform and Declaration of Beijing and to which we took reservations then. Indonesia: Certain paragraphs of the Platform and Declaration are not consistent with Indonesia's national interests. However, such reservations should not pose and obstacle to their implementation. Mauritania: Expresses reservations on all paragraphs which are contrary to Islamic law, particularly the paragraph on sexual relations and others which deal with illegal abortion and inheritance. Oman: The Platform contains some ideas contrary to the norms of Islamic society. It expresses reservations on everything which is contrary to Islamic law. Malta: We reserve our position regarding the references to reproductive health, reproductive rights and control of fertility as used in different parts of the documents. Malta's delegation deems abortion to terminate pregnancy to be illegal. It has reservations on the phrase that "such abortion should be safe", and on the words "international human rights instruments". Peru: The community and State promote family and marriage as the basic units of society. Marriage involves men and women. Concepts on reproductive health and rights cannot be used to regulate fertility or family planning. Concepts on family planning must be seen as promoting the family and responsible parenting. Sexual rights refers only to heterosexual rights. (more) Conference on Women - 7 - Press Release WOM/BEI/38 16th Meeting (PM) 15 September 1995 Argentina is pleased references to youth have been included in the document, because they are the ones for whom these changes are being made. Some interpretive statements need clarification. The concept of the family should be one of a union between a man and a women in which children are born and nourished. There should be no weakening of parental responsibility. References to the control of sexual health should not restrict the right to life or weaken condemnation of abortion as a means of birth control. Paragraph 107 (k) should not be taken to mean abortion is no longer penalized. References to the principles of the Cairo document should be taken in the context of Argentina's reservations. Brunei Darussalem: Certain paragraphs in the final documents are contrary to Islamic principles and therefore not acceptable to Brunei Darussalem. The Government will submit its reservations in writing. France: The editing of paragraph 247 does not correspond to the results of the work of the Committee. This comment should be reflected in the final report. Yemen is committed to the document, but that commitment should not be interpreted to mean that it approves anything that is contrary to the principles of Islamic law . Yemen's reservations regarding paragraphs 97, 107 (k) and 232 (f) should be reflected in the final document. Sudan: Stresses that the application of the provisions of the Declaration should be in line with the teachings of Islamic legislation. Its understanding of the reference to inheritance does not contradict the principles of Islam. It has reservations on paragraphs 97, 232 (f), and the linking of the two, as well as 107 (k). Sudan rejects all forms of sexual relationships outside of marriage; sexual relations other than that between a man and a woman is perverse, as is abortion. Sudan came to defend the rights of women and uphold the values of ethics and moral principles. It rejects any interpretation that would be contrary to those principles. Dominican Republic: Promises to implement the document where it agrees with its constitution and the laws of the republic. Costa Rica: Costa Rica respects human rights, promotes tolerance and believes women's equality must be supported. The Conference's goals are in keeping with the obligation to promote women's rights. Human rights, when referring to women's sexual rights, should be exercised in a framework of mutual respect for men and women. Differences between nations and communities should be settled through dialogue. Resources spent on weapons would be better spent on people. Men and women should be given priority in development plans and action taken to eliminate all forms of discrimination. (more) Conference on Women - 8 - Press Release WOM/BEI/38 16th Meeting (PM) 15 September 1995 The United Arab Emirates: We express reservations to paragraphs 97, 232 (F), 274(D) and 107 (J) and all others which are contrary to Islamic law. Venezuela: A woman should be respected in all stages of her life. Action to promote family planning, sexual health and reproductive rights are acceptable only when it does not include abortion. It has concerns that references in the document to an "undesired pregnancy" might be taken to mean a woman's right to have an abortion, which is illegal in Venezuela. Abortion in "dangerous circumstances", is also illegal except when the life of the woman is in danger. The representative of Bahrain: Bahrain expresses reservations to those passages which run counter to Islam and to Bahrain's culture. Lebanon has reservations on paragraphs that might be interpreted as contrary to national law and regulations, in particular paragraphs 97, 107 and 232 (f). Tunisia: The Government emphasizes that it will implement paragraphs 97, 232 and 274 (f) in line with Islamic principles and Arab values. Mali: Mali confirms its reservations to portions of the document that are not in concert with the laws of Mali principles, particularly on the question of abortion. Benin: The delegation regrets that it must express doubts and reservations on passages which are not in accordance with the national legislation of Benin and its religious practices and customs, particularly with regard to paragraphs 97, 107 (k) and 232 (f). The delegation also expresses concern about the French translation of the text. Guatemala: Guatemala is a multi-ethnic country with a Mayan majority. There should be dialogue among women, to ensure solidarity between the indigenous and non-indigenous peoples, so the principle of unity in diversity may reign. We express our solidarity with peoples struggling for self-determination. India has no reservations on the Declaration or the Platform for Action. This is an historic moment, in which we are looking at the structures of society and seeking logical means of removing inequalities. We have rediscovered the girl-child. Let us help her grow in a harmonious, healthy environment. Let us change the mind-set of people to promote a world conducive to development. Algeria: has reservations on all matters which might run counter to its laws regarding inheritance, sexual rights and illegal abortion. However, it is delighted to see the work of the Conference crowned with success. (more) Conference on Women - 9 - Press Release WOM/BEI/38 16th Meeting (PM) 15 September 1995 Iraq: Its commitment to the Platform for Action is based on full respect for national sovereignty, Islamic principles and the Iraqi Constitution. Vanuatu: While endorsing the Platform for Action, the endorsement is made with full respect for the constitutional, legal and religious principles of Vanuatu. Ethiopia: There was a measure of imbalance in the focus of the Conference. Too much time and effort was spent on matters which are not central to the issues of women. Ensuring better access to health services, property, employment, full political and economic participation, deserve higher priority than protecting what had been subsumed under the term "sexual rights". Peace, equality and development should be the motto of the Conference. Peace is a priority and should come first, then equality and development. Without peace, there is no equality. Morocco has reservations on a number of paragraphs, which are in contradiction with the precepts of Islam and the country's cultural and spiritual traditions, particularly paragraphs 97, 107 (k), 232 (f) and 274 (d). Djibouti: While Djibouti is committed to fulfilling its international obligation as regards the text which its supports, it has reservations on certain sections, including those referring to inheritance. In particular it has reservations on paragraphs 95, 96, 97, 107 (k), 109 (k), 232 (f), 274 and other references to issues that are not covered in the text of Djibouti's constitution. All of the final documents will be dealt with in the context of national sovereignty of Djibouti. Qatar: The concept of family is vital. Qatar rejects any principle that would tolerate abortion and which runs counter to Islamic law, specifically paragraphs 95, 96, 107 (k) and all others that are counter to Islamic law. Nicaragua hopes participants will work on the areas that unite them to achieve the development and peace that all yearn for. The Government confirms its commitment to the Platform of Action. In accordance with its constitution and national laws, it considers that all persons have the right to life, a fundamental and inalienable right that begins at conception. Abortion cannot be considered as a means of birth control. Any legislation concerning this matter is a sovereign matter of Nicaragua. Togo: The question of women is a question of humanity. Togo agrees with most of the provisions, but has reservations concerning some of the paragraphs which relate to sexual rights, health and illegal abortion, in that they are in contradiction with laws in force in Togo. (more) Conference on Women - 10 - Press Release WOM/BEI/38 16th Meeting (PM) 15 September 1995 Liberia will be urged by the delegation to implement 90 to 95 per cent of the Platform for Action. Something should be included in the Platform stating action should be taken against those who take up arms against innocent civilians. Syria: The Platform is a milestone in the history of humanity, and especially women. It has reservations regarding paragraphs 97, 232 (f), and 274 (d), because they are not in line with the nation's legislation and the body of Islamic law. Pakistan: The Platform gives a new mandate to women at the national and international level. Human rights, health, education and violence against women must all be dealt with. Foreign occupation is against the rights of colonized people to self-determination. Islamic law guarantees equality development and peace for all. Some terminology in the Platform is ambiguous and leads to conflicting connotations; for example there is no clear understanding of the term "sexuality". It also has reservations on paragraphs 97 and 232 (f). The Platform is a big step forward for women's rights; new resources are needed at national and international levels to improve women's condition, especially the most vulnerable. Nigeria agrees with the Platform for Action but it has reservations to certain paragraphs which are contrary to its constitution. Comoros is pleased with the work of Conference and reaffirms its support for Platform for Action. It also associates itself with Islamic countries in their stance on anything which is contrary to Islamic law. Bolivia joins in the consensus and pledges its full, unlimited and unreserved support for the Platform for Action. Women in South America have always been in the vanguard of political and social change and this Conference means women are again in the vanguard of change. Colombia entirely supports the Platform for Action. It is pleased to have a Platform that addresses all aspects of the development of women throughout the world. We are now moving into the time of action. We must begin to ensure that our Governments will work to ensure implementation of the Platform. Bangladesh: We have gathered here to chart a new agenda for equality, development and peace. We have succeeded in producing a strong document of commitment and determination -- a document which, we are convinced, will make a difference worldwide. Commitments must emerge, first and foremost at the national level. However, a genuine partnership at the global level is also required. (more) Conference on Women - 11 - Press Release WOM/BEI/38 16th Meeting (PM) 15 September 1995 Honduras: The Platform for Action is an effective tool to promote women and ensure their progress. We undertake to take the necessary action to implement it. We support the control of fertility so long as it does not include abortion as a means of family planning. The family is the fundamental unit of society. Jordan does not support those paragraphs which to not uphold its religious and cultural values, particularly paragraphs 97, 232 (f) and the linkage to 107 (k). Ghana: The Conference was not on abortion, or sexual rights, but about the improvement in the quality of life. Let us remember what Beijing stands for, return home and share what has been accomplished here with those at home. We must make a difference in their lives. Central African Republic expresses reservations on paragraphs 132 and 232 because they are contrary to the views of the Government. Cambodia: Some parts of the Platform for Action require enormous effort to implement but Cambodia has decided to put aside its reservations to the Platform and fully support it. Maldives registers its reservations on certain parts of the document that do not conform with the laws and traditional beliefs of Maldives, particularly paragraphs 97 and 107 (k). South Africa is inspired by the Conference, which has addressed basic and crucial issues such as poverty. It was not about abortion but health care, development, peace, equality and non-discrimination. We are committed to the Platform of Action and the Declaration with no reservations. United Republic of Tanzania pledges its full support for the Platform for Action. Brazil expresses its full support for the Platform of Action and the Beijing Declaration. Panama expresses total and unreserved support for the Platform for Action and reiterates its determination to work toward equality, peace and human rights. El Salvador has been enriched by its participation in the Main Committee and has no reservations on this document. It urges the international community and non-governmental agencies to begin working today to give effect to the document. (more) Conference on Women - 12 - Press Release WOM/BEI/38 16th Meeting (PM) 15 September 1995 Madagascar: Despite linguistic differences, the women of the world have managed to forge an historic document. The Government has already adopted the Cairo document and has no reservations to the Beijing document. Chad welcomes the results achieved and hopes the Conference will guide us to a better future for all humanity. Cameroon supports the Platform for Action and the Beijing Declaration. Niger hopes that the last sentence of paragraph 107 (k) will not be a precondition for foreign financing. Gabon supports the Platform for Action. In particular it supports paragraph 36 of the Declaration which will allow for the implementation of this programme through new and additional resources. Observer for Palestine: We are determined to control our own destinies to implement programmes and projects that will contribute to the advancement of women. Adoption of the Conference's Report Conference Rapporteur-General NETUMBO NANDI-NDAITWAH, the Deputy Foreign Minister of Namibia, introduced the draft report of the Conference (A/CONF.177/L.7 and Add.1 (Parts I and II): In addition to those messages from Heads of States and Government noted in the report, messages were received from the Presidents of Azerbaijan and Senegal. In addition, French Polynesia and the British Virgin Islands were not represented in the Conference; those names would be deleted from the final report. The Conference adopted its draft report, as orally revised, without a vote. Right of Reply The representative of France: With regard to the issue of nuclear testing, France, in exercise of its right of reply, has submitted a text to the Secretariat. I ask that it be submitted as a document of the Conference and noted in its report. (more) Conference on Women - 13 - Press Release WOM/BEI/38 16th Meeting (PM) 15 September 1995 Expression of Thanks to China The representative of the Philippines, speaking on behalf of the Group of 77, introduced the draft resolution entitled "Expression of gratitude to the people and Government of the People's Republic of China" (A/CONF.177/L.8): I am sure everyone who attended the Conference will go home with memories of the goodwill, efficiency and friendliness of the Chinese people, as well as of the grandeur and beauty of Beijing as an ancient and modern capital. The draft resolution was adopted without a vote. Conference Secretary-General's Statement GERTRUDE MONGELLA, Secretary-General of the Conference: "My dear sisters and brothers, we have made it!" -- transcending historical and cultural complexities, socio-economic disparities and diversities and maintaining the common vision and goal of equality, development and peace, and in a number of areas, expanding the horizons of previous Conferences. A consensus document -- the Platform for Action -- was finally achieved. The 1995 NGO Forum on Women brought together over 25,000 women, men and youth to discuss in workshops, symposia and other consultations, different aspects of concerns which touch women's lives. Some of the debates generated animosity, reflecting divergent views and the difficult process of consensus-building, but are there any conferences that did not have these impassioned debates? The all-inclusive celebrations of women's work at Huairou helped to cement bonds and networking among women from all corners of the globe. Youth own the future and they have a right to own the actions of Beijing. The participants will rely on them to carry on the revolution. The Platform, which represents a global consensus for social change cannot be hidden away and allowed to collect dust. The Conference is concluded, but the real work of transforming words into action is only now beginning. There is no going back. Social justice demands that we move on. Let Beijing be the first step of a thousand miles to implement the attainment of true equality, development and peace in the world. Disseminate the Platform on your return home and let the message be loud and clear: "Action now". The eyes of the world are upon us. The world will hold us accountable for the implementation of the good intentions and decisions arrived at in Beijing. I, therefore, charge you, my dear friends and sisters, to re-assemble in your ranks, sharpen your focus and march on. Let us ensure that we carry the torch which was lit in Mexico, and rekindled in Copenhagen and Nairobi, further forward from Beijing. We shall surely get there. (more) Conference on Women - 14 - Press Release WOM/BEI/38 16th Meeting (PM) 15 September 1995 Statement on Behalf of UN Secretary-General ISMAT KITTANI, speaking on behalf of United Nations Secretary-General BOUTROS BOUTROS-GHALI: The momentum of Beijing must be translated into action so that the decisions reached here will change the world. Behind the commitments lies the strong and organized power of the women's movements. The entire continuum of global conferences and summits has been shaped by the growing influence, passion and intellectual conviction of the women's movement. In the United Nations, the women's movement has a staunch ally. The Organization has worked with the women's movement to realize the goal of the founders. Despite the progress made, much, much more remain to be done. While women have made significant advances in many societies, in 1995 there is no country where men and women enjoy complete equality. The message of this Conference is that women's issues are global and universal. While deeply entrenched attitudes and practice perpetuate inequality against women, there has emerged a consensus that equality of opportunity for all people is essential to the construction of just and democratic societies for the twenty-first century. The fundamental linkages between the three objectives of the Conference -- equality, development and peace -- are now recognized by all. The Platform for Action is a powerful agenda for the empowerment of women, calling for the integration of gender perspectives in all policies and programmes and concrete measures to address critical areas of concern. It should be disseminated globally, regionally and locally. The Platform for Action places heavy responsibilities on the United Nations system in terms of follow-up, implementation and monitoring. Recommendations addressed to the Secretary-General will be implemented swiftly and efficiently. The gender perspective will be placed into the mainstream of all aspects of the work the Organization. Member States will be regularly informed. The United Nations system is committed to developing specific policies and monitoring mechanisms to improve the status of women and in particular to increase the number of women in senior and policy-making positions. The United Nations will intensify its close ties and working relationships with the community of non-governmental organizations at the global and national levels. It will be prepared to support governments in their endeavours to foster and strengthen the institutions of civil society. Statement by Conference President CHEN MUHUA, Conference President: After over 10 days of hard work, through our common efforts, the Fourth World Conference on Women has achieved complete success. The women of the world have been following the Conference closely. They have placed high hopes in us. Now we can say that we have lived up to their expectations. The success of the Conference demonstrates that the advance in the status of women has been the demand of our times and the common aspiration of (more) Conference on Women - 15 - Press Release WOM/BEI/38 16th Meeting (PM) 15 September 1995 mankind. It demonstrates that the international community has the political will and determination to promote equality between women and men. The Fourth World Conference on Women will be remembered as having been unprecedented in size and scale. It will be remembered for its successful organization and as a milestone for the cause of women throughout the world. It has given a powerful impetus for promoting equality between women and men in global development. The Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action will become the guiding principles for various governments and the international community in that effort. * *** *