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WORKING GROUP II

An informal session of Working Group II met Tuesday morning to discuss proposals for outstanding text. In 230 (f) (strengthen human rights institutions), the word "independent" was removed from brackets. In 231 (h) (implementation of Convention on Discrimination), delegates agreed to a compromise formulation that called for effective cooperation between the UNHCHR, the UNHCR and other relevant bodies, taking into account the link between violations of human rights.

In 226 (disadvantaged or marginalized groups), delegates could not agree on a reference to "sexual orientation." Some countries noted that the paragraph is merely a statement of fact and does not create any new rights. Others noted that this is the first time this term has appeared in a UN document and asked for a definition. The language remains bracketed pending the outcome of informal consultations. In 232(f) (ensure women's reproductive rights), a proposal to use agreed language from paragraph 97 (sexual rights) was discussed, but many delegations felt that paragraph 97 is descriptive, whereas paragraph 232(f) is action oriented, and that the language should be amended to reflect this difference. One delegate proposed adding: "Any measures or changes related to abortion can only be determined at the national or local level according to the national legislative process." A decision was deferred pending the results of an informal contact group.

In 223 (human rights), a proposal was made to reference the ICPD Programme of Action and the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action and note that the FWCW reaffirms that reproductive rights rest on recognizing the right to decide the number, the spacing and timing of children and to have the information and means to do so. One delegate preferred to refer to conferences rather than the programmes. Discussion was deferred pending informal negotiation. The Working Group continued consideration of outstanding issues during an evening meeting.