General Debate of the 69th Session of the General Assembly - Reference to Gender Language

“The people of Afghanistan have witnessed many positive achievements in past decade including in the fields of socioeconomic development, education - especially education for our girls - health, communications and information technology, promotion and protection of humans rights including particularly women's rights.”

“We have put in place clear conditions to this process to be accepted by the Afghan people: for instance we demand renunciations of violence and respect for Afghanistan's Constitution as it guarantees full and equal rights to Afghan men and women, and is the only tool for preservation of our collective achievements of the past decade.”

“We reaffirm our strong will for further strengthening of democracy, good governance including, further strengthening rule of law, accountability and transparency, promotion and protection of human rights, particularly woman rights; justice reforms, and the fight against terrorism, narcotic drugs, corruption and eradication of poverty.”

“under the personal leadership of the president of the republic , SEM Abdelaziz Bouteflika the Algerian authorities are working to support the evevation living standards of citizens of nouveaus accomplishments. Evidenced by, among other things, recent laws criminalizing violence against children and women, and protection of the rights of reinforced divorced women , those Legislative developments in addition to political and institutional conquests of the Algerian woman in terms of seats in the assembled elected as within the Government”

“The Government has been implementing large-scale programs on improving good governance, strengthening rule of law, ensuring respect for human rights, providing facilitated access to public services, inclusive and equitable education, gender equality and empowering women, enabling access to affordable energy and protection of environment."

“We shall persevere in this drive to preserve the position of the Kingdom of Bahrain, classified by UNDP's Human Development Report (which is based on objective statistical criteria among which the most important are health care, education, per capita income and non discrimination against women) in the category of ‘countries with very high human development”; a status achieved through hard and continuous work.”

“My Government is also entrenching democracy, secularism and women empowerment to ideologically defeat terrorism and extremism.”

“Benin, my country, is distinguished by the establishment of free maternal and primary education, and also facilities at secondary and higher education allowing pupils and students who are disadvantaged to have access to education and also to significantly increase the enrolment level, particularly of girls.”

“My Government tirelessly combats violence against women in all its forms. We consider the 21st century to be the century of women."

“Women, peace and security are a priority issue for Chile on the Security Council agenda. Since the adoption of resolution 1325 (2000), the world has made progress in the protection of women and girls in armed conflicts. Our efforts to empower women and promote initiatives to combat violence against women and girls have been tireless. As a result, today women are at the center of the new development and peace architecture. We believe that the full incorporation of women in society in all its facets, in the economy, in politics and in culture is a prerequisite for full development and should therefore also be a priority in the post-2015 agenda.”

“The third aspect concerns development and cooperation. The process of constructing a post-2015 development agenda requires renewed efforts to provide official development assistance and to promote innovative financing mechanisms, encouraging partnerships between countries, international bodies, civil society and the private sector. Chile is interested in a greater coordination of initiatives and instruments to facilitate South-South cooperation by middle-income countries, in ways in which their essential contribution can be made effective. In this regard, I wish to mention that in Chile we have enacted legal provisions to fully open our economy to imports from the 48 least developed countries, without duties or quotas.”

“In Colombia, we are seeking peace because the suffering of our fellow citizens hurts us, because we do not want any more victims, women or children in war. […] In confrontation, it is imperative to recover ethical principles, which are fundamental to humanity, and to remove children, women and civilians from these tragedies.”

"We should always bear in mind that the UN was created with the aim of maintaining international peace and security, thus, fostering the effective protection of the fundamental freedoms and human rights of all people, irrespective of gender, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief."

“In recent years, my country has launched a process of transformations focused on sustainable development, the fight against poverty, the reduction of inequality and exclusion, and social injustice, additionally promoting a gender equality agenda and a human rights perspective.”

“The unjust and unfair sanctions, for which everyone now agrees that there was no and is no justification must also unconditionally and immediately be lifted. Such long overdue measures would contribute positively to the tireless efforts of the Eritrean people to build their nation, maintain peace, stability and harmony, improve their livelihood, lay the foundations of a strong, equitable national economy, create opportunities for youth and women and advance regional and international engagement and cooperation.”

“We are committed to enhancing gender equality, women's empowerment, and equal employment for every Georgian.”

“The coming year will mark the 20th anniversary of the World Conference on Women that was held in Beijing in 1995. I would like to note, with great pride, that it will also mark the 40th anniversary of Ghana's establishment of the National Council on Women and Development, which has since been renamed the Department of Gender.”

“Ghana has a long-held commitment to the betterment of women's lives, and my administration has made it a priority to carry on this tradition. In fact, much, if not all, of what we are doing fails directly in line with the areas of concern enumerated in the Beijing Platform for Action.”

“Full and equal participation by women is another essential component in building peaceful stable societies. Women are key agents of change and must be full protagonists in our ongoing global story. Political will is a crucial element of driving women's empowerment and gender equality forward. Security Council Resolution 1325 was a milestone in recognizing this reality and the subsequent Resolutions, most recently Resolution 2122, demonstrate our resolve to pursue the goal of full and empowered participation by women in political processes. This US agenda includes a welcome and necessary increase in focus on tackling the scourge of sexual violence in armed conflict. But we must translate out global commitments into concrete actions. Achieving real gender equality requires a commitment from all of us here – men and women. It is a commitment that Ireland is proud to have made and next January we will launch commitment towards ensuring that women and girls can reach their full potential, live a life free from fear, and fully take their place at the decision-making table."

“This year marks the 25th Anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the most universally ratified human rights treaty. . . . At the same time, we are on the cusp of the 20th Anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women, to be celebrated in 2015. This is, therefore, an opportune moment to evaluate the progress made in safeguarding the rights of women and children.”

"I do not have the slightest doubt that the creation of a society in which women shine holds the key to changing the entirety of society."

“In Colombia, we are seeking peace because the suffering of our fellow citizens hurts us, because we do not want any more victims, women or children in war. […] In confrontation, it is imperative to recover ethical principles, which are fundamental to humanity, and to remove children, women and civilians from these tragedies.”

“Only one hundred days in Office, my government has demonstrated its commitment to building an all- inclusive, all empowering, egalitarian society, by promoting the protection of women's rights, gender equality…..”

“It is my government's pledge to continue to work towards full gender equality and the advancement and empowerment of women.”

“We have also appointed a plethora of women to serve in the Upper House of Parliament, as ambassadors and in other key positions within the public sector.”

“Our peace leadership is further reaffirmed through our support to the UN as a top troops and police contributing country in its peacekeeping endeavours. We have so far contributed 128,133 peacekeepers in 54 peace Missions. Bangladesh proudly contributes the highest number of women police to UN peacekeeping commensurate with our women empowerment credentials.”

“We are offering monthly stipend to 12.8 million girls and boys students of poor families from primary to graduation level. Seventy five percent of them are girls.”

“For us, sustainable development entails empowerment of women and their equal participation with men, in all walks of life. Our efforts to promote women's empowerment by enhancing their access to productive resources and representation in national and local levels are producing visible results. Pragmatic policies of the government have helped women leadership grow from the grassroots to the top-most levels. Bangladesh is possibly the only country today where women simultaneously hold high positions of Prime Minister, Speaker, Leader of the Opposition and the Deputy Leader. 10% of posts for women are reserved in judicial, administrative, civil service and in the armed forces and law enforcing agencies. 60% of posts of primary school teachers are reserved for women.

"With a view to ensuring equality, my government is running numerous social safety net programs that cover more than 24% of our population. Notable among those are, Vulnerable Group Feeding and Development; "Ashrayan", housing and livelihood for the homeless; monthly pension for senior citizens, widows, destitute women, disabled, matrnity allowance and food and nutrition security to rural people through "One House, One Farm" schemes to promote family farming. Persons with other disabilities are provided with education, skill development and interest-free credit for self-employment. In the formal sector, one percent quota has been reserved for them.”

“We have an unequivocal commitment to the empowerment of women in the labor market, liberal professions, entrepreneurship, political activity, and access to education, among others.”

“Women, peace and security are a priority issue for Chile on the Security Council agenda. Since the adoption of resolution 1325 (2000), the world has made progress in the protection of women and girls in armed conflicts. Our efforts to empower women and promote initiatives to combat violence against women and girls have been tireless. As a result, today women are at the center of the new development and peace architecture. We believe that the full incorporation of women in society in all its facets, in the economy, in politics and in culture is a prerequisite for full development and should therefore also be a priority in the post-2015 agenda.”

“The special role in maintaining peace and advancing development lies with women. In particular we see the role of women in achieving successful conflict resolution and sustainable development of post-conflict societies. We strongly advocate women's economic empowerment for peacebuilding and development. This is why we are organizing a high-level meeting here at the UN related to gender dimension of sustainable development within the context of post-conflict recovery, on 26 September.”

“It is a sad reality that, in too many parts of the world, women are among the most vulnerable groups. We continue to witness horrifying cases of violence against women and girls, including sexual violence. We call on all States to adopt urgent measures to prevent such abhorrent incidents. When women are excluded from the society and prevented from enjoying basic rights, participating in public life or simply exercising a profession, it has a massive impact not only on the country's development but also on its overall stability. We expect the relevant UN bodies to step up their efforts to ensure a peaceful and dignified life for all, including women.”

“Women in Syria, as in other conflict-driven countries, must be included in the peace process. We welcome women's active efforts to strengthen their voices in Syria and everywhere.”

“This administration boasts the highest number of women appointed to public office in the history of Ghana. Seven of our Cabinet Ministers are women, as are the holders of several senior public service posts--and I hope the fact that they are too numerous to list is an indication that we are reaching toward the ideal.”

“In Iceland and the other Nordic Countries the revolution in women's education and the high level of female participation in the labor market has been the basis of welfare and economic prosperity.”

“Full and equal participation by women is another essential component in building peaceful stable societies. Women are key agents of change and must be full protagonists in our ongoing global story. Political will is a crucial element of driving women's empowerment and gender equality forward. Security Council Resolution 1325 was a milestone in recognizing this reality and the subsequent Resolutions, most recently Resolution 2122, demonstrate our resolve to pursue the goal of full and empowered participation by women in political processes. This US agenda includes a welcome and necessary increase in focus on tackling the scourge of sexual violence in armed conflict. But we must translate out global commitments into concrete actions. Achieving real gender equality requires a commitment from all of us here – men and women. It is a commitment that Ireland is proud to have made and next January we will launch commitment towards ensuring that women and girls can reach their full potential, live a life free from fear, and fully take their place at the decision-making table."

“We also call for special attention to be paid to achieving gender equality. Rooting out violence against women, enhancing women's economic empowerment and promoting their equal participation at all levels of decision making should be essential tasks in this regard.”

“It was on the same occasion last year that I spoke of the significance and importance of enhancing the power of women and appealed for us. To create a society in which women shine. Japan has now begun to work towards resolving the numerous issues we face together with private industries to increase women's participation in society as soon as possible. […] In less than a year, the empowerment of women has become a guiding principle that has driven Japan's policies both domestically and overseas”

“Women in Syria, as in other conflict-driven countries, must be included in the peace process. We welcome women's active efforts to strengthen their voices in Syria and everywhere.”

“Myanmar is now combatting human trafficking, preventing gender violence….”

“Sexual violence is a crime strongly abhorred in our traditional values and national culture. It is strictly forbidden by law. Myanmar joined the Declaration of Commitment to End Sexual Violence in Armed Conflict at Global Summit in London in June this year. This sighing up reflects the state policy of zero tolerance on the use of rape and sexual violence as as weapon of war.”

“Women, peace and security are a priority issue for Chile on the Security Council agenda. Since the adoption of resolution 1325 (2000), the world has made progress in the protection of women and girls in armed conflicts. Our efforts to empower women and promote initiatives to combat violence against women and girls have been tireless. As a result, today women are at the center of the new development and peace architecture. We believe that the full incorporation of women in society in all its facets, in the economy, in politics and in culture is a prerequisite for full development and should therefore also be a priority in the post-2015 agenda.”

“It is a sad reality that, in too many parts of the world, women are among the most vulnerable groups. We continue to witness horrifying cases of violence against women and girls, including sexual violence. We call on all States to adopt urgent measures to prevent such abhorrent incidents. When women are excluded from the society and prevented from enjoying basic rights, participating in public life or simply exercising a profession, it has a massive impact not only on the country's development but also on its overall stability. We expect the relevant UN bodies to step up their efforts to ensure a peaceful and dignified life for all, including women.”

“No peace or justice, stability or security can be guaranteed unless the basic rights of all human beings are respected and protected in every country, by all governments. We must pay special attention to the rights of the most vulnerable groups. Women's rights must be protected everywhere. We consider it crucial that empowering women and action against gender-based violence be implemented in accordance with UN Resolution 1325”

“Also in existence are several other pieces of legislation designed to offer protection and empowerment of women such as the Domestic Violence Act, the Anti-Human Trafficking Act, an Affirmative Action Bill. and a Gender Policy.”

“I turn now to the problem posed by the heinous activity of human trafficking; a crime of global proportions, which exploits the most vulnerable among us, not the least of whom are women and children. Jamaica calls upon the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime to provide a framework for Member States to develop a robust programme to help bring an end to this affront to human dignity and freedom.”

“There is no time to lose: we must actively address what is happening in Northern Iraq where the so-called Islamic State is attempting to wipe out entire religious communities. Where children are being beheaded, mothers raped and fathers hung because of their beliefs.”

“To uphold peace and 'rule of law' and end a 'culture of impunity', my government remains pledge-bound to bring to justice the culprits of war crimes, crimes against humanity, rape, and genocide committed during our 1971 Liberation War.”

“My Government tirelessly combats violence against women in all its forms. We consider the 21st century to be the century of women."

“Myanmar is now combatting human trafficking, preventing gender violence….”

“Sexual violence is a crime strongly abhorred in our traditional values and national culture. It is strictly forbidden by law. Myanmar joined the Declaration of Commitment to End Sexual Violence in Armed Conflict at Global Summit in London in June this year. This sighing up reflects the state policy of zero tolerance on the use of rape and sexual violence as as weapon of war.”

“It is a sad reality that, in too many parts of the world, women are among the most vulnerable groups. We continue to witness horrifying cases of violence against women and girls, including sexual violence. We call on all States to adopt urgent measures to prevent such abhorrent incidents. When women are excluded from the society and prevented from enjoying basic rights, participating in public life or simply exercising a profession, it has a massive impact not only on the country's development but also on its overall stability. We expect the relevant UN bodies to step up their efforts to ensure a peaceful and dignified life for all, including women.”

“No peace or justice, stability or security can be guaranteed unless the basic rights of all human beings are respected and protected in every country, by all governments. We must pay special attention to the rights of the most vulnerable groups. Women's rights must be protected everywhere. We consider it crucial that empowering women and action against gender-based violence be implemented in accordance with UN Resolution 1325”

“We also call for special attention to be paid to achieving gender equality. Rooting out violence against women, enhancing women's economic empowerment and promoting their equal participation at all levels of decision making should be essential tasks in this regard.”

“Our peace leadership is further reaffirmed through our support to the UN as a top troops and police contributing country in its peacekeeping endeavours. We have so far contributed 128,133 peacekeepers in 54 peace Missions. Bangladesh proudly contributes the highest number of women police to UN peacekeeping commensurate with our women empowerment credentials.”

“Terrorist sectarian groups such as Qaida, ISIL and the terrorist Hezbollah along with its extensions and counterparts, recruit fighters from East and West to perpetrate horrific terrorist acts. The young and the old are killed, women are taken as war bounty, families are displaced and privacy is violated, the objective being to undermine security, propagate anarchy and topple regimes.”

“We condemn the systematic killing of hundreds of Palestinian civilians, including women and children, by Israel during the recent offensive in Gaza.”

“In Colombia, we are seeking peace because the suffering of our fellow citizens hurts us, because we do not want any more victims, women or children in war. […] In confrontation, it is imperative to recover ethical principles, which are fundamental to humanity, and to remove children, women and civilians from these tragedies.”

“[T]he situation in the Middle East remains highly volatile, and the UN has been watching the cycle of violence in the region rather helplessly. In the most recent conflict between the Palestinians and Israelis, about more than 2000 people from Gaza, mostly women and children died at the hands of Israel and about 70 Israelis all of them soldiers except for 3 children lost their lives.”

“We are all shocked at the unspeakable brutality of those terrorists who misuse the name of God in carrying out their evil deeds. And my question is this: ought we not to be particularly worried that the preachers of hate are drawing in young people who have grown up in the midst of our own societies? That is why this, too, is not exclusively a regional conflict, a problem in Iraq or in Syria or in Africa, where the terrorists are stamping in particular on the fundamental rights of women and girls. This barbarity is directed against every one of us, and against everything for which the United Nations stands.”

“To uphold peace and 'rule of law' and end a 'culture of impunity', my government remains pledge-bound to bring to justice the culprits of war crimes, crimes against humanity, rape, and genocide committed during our 1971 Liberation War.”

“The special role in maintaining peace and advancing development lies with women. In particular we see the role of women in achieving successful conflict resolution and sustainable development of post-conflict societies. We strongly advocate women's economic empowerment for peacebuilding and development. This is why we are organizing a high-level meeting here at the UN related to gender dimension of sustainable development within the context of post-conflict recovery, on 26 September.”

“The Millennium Development Goals count for one of the most successful global anti-poverty drives in history. Ranging from poverty, hunger, maternal and child health, gender equality, education and environment MDGs have noted important progress at the national, regional and global levels and have improved the lives of millions of people. Since 2005 the number of people living in extreme poverty has been halved, but while we are just months away from the deadline, a lot more remains to be done.”

“The MDGs have been the most successful global anti-poverty push in history. It is due to MDGs that the world witnesses 50 percent less poverty than it did in 1990, more girls in school, lesser number of children dying and more people having access to safe drinking water and sanitation.”

“As Executive director of UN-Women, I had the privilege of seeing the conviction, solidarity and dedication with which UN staff help to promote the ideals, principles and mandates of the system. Without this work, the political decisions would be meaningless.”

“The key to building a fair society is sustainable development. To this end, we are committed to working on Post-2015 Development Agenda that will formulate the Sustainable Development Goals based on the 2000 Millennium Development Goals. These will be global in nature, universally applicable and will address persistent inequalities and new challenges facing people and our planet. The promotion of good governance, rule of law, human rights and the empowerment of women must remain among self-standing priorities, but they are also cross-cutting issues linking different agendas. In this context, we are looking forward to the Secretary General's Synthesis Report, expected by the end of the year.”

“Iceland is proud to support UN Women in the campaign to celebrate Beijing+20. We have partnered with Suriname to lead a friends' group of countries to galvanize support to promote gender equality and to commemorate the 20th anniversary. We call on Member States to join this effort and take concrete actions on the 12 themes of the Platform for Action. For our part, we want to bring men and boys to the table on gender equality in a positive way. Iceland and Suriname will convene a “Barbershop” conference in January 2015 where men will discuss gender equality with other men, with a special focus on addressing violence against women. This will be a unique conference as it will be the first time at the United Nations that we bring together only men leaders to discuss gender equality. It will be an exceptional contribution to the Beijing+20 and #HeforShe campaigns.”

"I also stated that, 'Japan respects the activities of U.N. Women that is responsible for women's issues within the United Nations. We intend to become one of its leading contributors and thus a model country in the area.' Over the past year, Japan increased its contributions to U.N. Women fivefold, and in the future we will further increase the number of projects we support. We are also very pleased that next year, U.N. Women will open its Tokyo office”