These days, nothing triggers a standing ovation from United Nations diplomats like a U.S. diplomatic setback.
At least that was the case on Monday, when U.N. delegates at the opening of the annual Commission on the Status of Women overcame intense United States opposition to adopt an outcome document — known as “agreed conclusions” — charting the path forward for women’s rights.
As the ballot by the commission’s 45 member states was tallied — the vote was 37 in favor, six abstentions, and one, the U.S., against — the General Assembly erupted into shouts, applause, and even tears. It was one of several outpourings of glee as the U.S. lost one attempt after another to delay or derail action on the measure.
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About the author
Colum Lynch
Colum Lynch is an award-winning reporter and Senior Global Reporter for Devex. He covers the intersection of development, diplomacy, and humanitarian relief at the United Nations and beyond. Prior to Devex, Colum reported on foreign policy and national security for Foreign Policy Magazine and the Washington Post. Colum was awarded the 2011 National Magazine Award for digital reporting for his blog Turtle Bay. He has also won an award for groundbreaking reporting on the U.N.’s failure to protect civilians in Darfur.
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