The platform condemns some specific practices and situations, such as job discrimination, female infanticide and dowry-related violence. The United States is the only western democracy that has not endorsed the document. During a June 8 briefing sponsored by the U.N.'s Department of Public Information, it was noted that nearly 150 nations had sent in reports on how they have implemented Platform for Action goals. Women constitute 70 percent of the world's poor. Women do not benefit equally from economic development.
Women continue to fear violence in their homes and communities, and in conflict zones.
Reaching agreement is a complex process, she said. But, for a variety of reasons, the work was able to proceed again once the special session started, she explained. There is a sense that the Beijing consensus will stand. The Zambia delegate said that her delegation, as well as those of other African countries, had arrived at the United Nations with clear concerns regarding the issues of debt relief, education, health, protection of girls and violence against women. They are pleased with how those issues are being addressed in the platform, she added.