This statement is submitted on behalf of She Leads, which includes Plan International, Defence for Children International, and Terre des Hommes International Federation, and on behalf of Save the Children, Child Rights Connect as well as World Vision International.
As has been reported across the world, the pandemic exacerbated pre-existing inequalities and put into the spotlight gender-based discrimination and violence as well as harmful practices, such as child marriage, which affect the daily lives of women and girls. In addition to the right to live free from violence, the rights to education and health of girls have also been specifically impacted. It is feared that up to 11 million more secondary school-aged girls will not return to school following the pandemic.
Read the joint statement by clicking here.