Uganda: NGO Pleads for Inclusion of Women in Juba Peace Talks
By Samuel O. Egadu

January 11, 2008 – (The Monitor) The government and the Lords Resistance Army have been asked to increase the number of women participating in the South Sudan mediated peace talks, an international NGO has appealed.

CARE, which addresses the causes and consequences of poverty and social injustice said the government and LRA should consider the UN Security Council Resolution 1325, which emphasises increased participation of women at decision-making levels in all formal peace processes.

"Although, Care recognises the active participation of women individually and in groups in the Juba peace talks, the continued exclusion of women' s views and concerns in the three agendas signed by the peace team still leaves a lot to be desired," Care said in a press statement issued on Wednesday.

The three agenda's so far signed in the five item agenda include, Cessation of Hostilities Agreement, Comprehensive Solutions to the war and Accountability and Reconciliation. Two agendas of ceasefire and demobilisation, Disarmament and Integration of rebels are yet to be signed.

"This calls for the government of Uganda and the Lords Resistance Army to unconditionally consider the UN Security Council Resolution 1325, which emphasises increased participation of women at decision-making levels in all formal peace processes," the statement adds.

As peace returns to the region, Care said women are concerned about their security and protection during resettlement.

The organisation appealed for increased representation of women views and concerns at all decision-making levels in the Juba Peace talks, specific protection needs of women, increased support for women peace builders at local, national and international levels and no impunity for war crimes against women, including gender based violence.

From:http://allafrica.com/stories/200801100985.html