STATEMENT OF ISRAEL ON THE SECURITY COUNCIL OPEN DEBATE ON WOMEN, PEACE AND SECURITY, OCTOBER, 2015
STATEMENT OF ISRAEL, October, 2015
Unfortunately, Israel is facing a generation of women, teens and even young children incited to hatred, martyrdom and killing innocents, and not to peace and coexistence. A 13-year old boy, instead of going to play outside, comes to kill after being brainwashed. A student who has her whole life in front of her comes to murder. As a woman and as a mother, I believe that education is the key to raising a generation of young people committed to understanding and tolerance. In Israel, the very first words our children learn at school are shalom and salam — peace.
I am here today as Israel’s Minister for Social Equality — a ministry established for the first time in Israel’s history to deal with minorities and gender issues and to enhance Israel’s efforts to fight prejudice and combat social inequality. Since its founding, Israel has been committed to a vision of a society of equal opportunities. Our Declaration of Independence guarantees equal rights for all citizens, regardless of gender, ethnicity or religion.
STATEMENT OF ISRAEL, October, 2015
As part of our commitment to gender equality, Israel enacted legislation in 2005 that guarantees women’s equal participation in public decision-making, peacebuilding, reconciliation and representation of women in all national policy issues. The inclusion of women is the key to opening the door to a sustainable peace. Mashav — Israel’s Agency for International Development — has been actively training women from throughout the world to equip them with the necessary leadership skills so they can hold senior positions in society. Israel’s commitment to full participation has been recognized here at the United Nations. Israel is proud to have recently joined the 48 States members of the Group of Friends of Women, Peace and Security. Together, we will work to advance global progress towards women’s empowerment.