General Debate of the 65th Session of the General Assembly - Reference to Gender Language

 UN Member States

• UN Member States

• Central African Republic

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  Par ailleurs, le programme du Desarmement, Demobilisation et Reinsertion (DDR) des ex-combattantsconnait des avancees appreciables dans la partie Nord-ouest et du centre du territoire. 

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 UN Member States | UN and Civil Society Speakers

• UN Member States

• Afghanistan

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  The Afghan people will never forget the generosity and great sacrifice of the United States, NATO partners, and other international partners, whose men and women have bravely stood with us to defend our common security, and ensure peace and stability for Afghanistan. 

• Albania

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  The establishment of Gender Equality Entity is the testimony of the most recent and tangible success of the reform in the UN. The strengthening of the role of women in society will help not just politics but also the emancipation and harmonized development of them. 

• Andorra

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  The government I represent welcomes the recent decision by the United Nations to create an entity for gender equality and strengthening the role of women: UN Women. It is my wish that this new structure be a great success and I pledge my country’s support.  

• Australia

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  Australia applauds the initiative to create a new institution entitled UN WOMEN under the capable leadership of the new Under Secretary-General Michelle Bachelet, the former President of Chile. Australia looks forward to working with UN WOMEN on the vast array of challenges which half of humanity faces and for which our existing international frameworks have been found wanting. 

• Austria

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  Austria warmly welcomes the milestone decision of the General Assembly to establish ‘UN Women’, which will make the UN a stronger and more effective partner in the advancement of women worldwide. We are looking forward to working with Michele Bachelet towards our common goals. 

• Bahamas

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  The Bahamas welcome efforts by this Organization to continue to bring focus to women's issues. We applaud in this regard, the adoption of resolution 64/289 which approved the establishment of a new gender entity- “UN Women”. 

• Bahrain

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  Most important among the challenges facing our world is the attainment of the MDGs by the year 2015. We know that many among us have exerted huge and outstanding efforts to that end. In this context, the Kingdom of Bahrain has a leading position notably in the field of social welfare, the provision of free quality basic education, healthcare, improvement of child and mother health, empowerment of women, gender equality, the expansion of the social safety net for the poorest of the population, the "Insurance against Unemployment " scheme, and the expansion of the scope of vocational training aimed at enhancing Bahrain' s human resources. 

• Bangladesh

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  Though Bangladesh has achieved the MDG target of gender equality at secondary level, our plan is to provide free tuition to girls up to undergraduate level. It is because I firmly believe women' s equal involvement is vital for a nation' s development. Gender equity and human development are our top priority concerns.
   

• Bangladesh

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  Our achievement on MDG-1 on poverty alleviation, MDG-2 on universal primary education, MDG-3 on gender equality and women
  empowerment are encouraging and on track.
   

• Belgium

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  The creation of UN Women is a welcomed development. It has my country’s full support. Of course, gender will need to stay a mainstream theme influencing the actions of each and every UN institution. 

• Belgium

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  Belgium strongly supports UN Resolution 1325 and its goals of participation, protection and promotion of women in peace and security. 

• Benin

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  Dans le souci d'assurer l'utilisation rationnelle des potentialités des femmes qui représentent plus de la moitié de la population de mon Pays, le Gouvernement a créé un Institut National pour Promotion des Femmes.

  Un programme de microcrédit aux femmes les plus pauvres a été également mis en place pour favoriser la promotion de leurs activités économiques. A ce jour, ce programme a rendu autonomes près de 600.000 femmes par la création d'activités génératrices de revenus.

  Les innovations visant l'alphabétisation, la micro-assurance, la mutuelle de santé, la solution biométrique ont été introduites dans le programme en vue de sa professionnalisation, de la sécurisation des fonds publics engagés d'une part, et de l'amélioration de l'accès des bénéficiaires auxdits programmes, d'autres part.

  Ce programme est à élargir, ce qui doit nécessiter un soutien financier supplémentaire de la Communauté internationale, en particulier des partenaires techniques et financiers.
   

• Bhutan

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  We welcome the unanimous adoption of the resolution on System-wide Coherence by the General Assembly earlier in July, which among others has established UN Women. The creation of UN Women effectively consolidates all the existing mandates and functions relating to women and constitutes an important step in fulfilling the commitments undertaken in the Fourth World Conference on Women held in Beijing. We are confident that this agency will address the global issues o f gender equality
  and women' s empowerment with great vigor.
   

• Botswana

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  Botswana welcomes the important milestones achieved in the strengthening of the UN's operational activities for development, improvement of funding for development related activities, as well as strengthening the institutional framework for the gender architecture through the creation of the UN Entity for Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women. The creation of this entity constitutes an important step in fulfilling the commitments undertaken at the 1995 Beijing Conference on Women, whose main objective was the promotion of gender equality and empowerment of women. 

• Bulgaria

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  Their efforts should be appreciated and fully supported by the international community. I want to also pay tribute to the brave men and women of all ISAF contributing nations, including the 600 odd Bulgarian troops who risk their lives to bring security to the people of Afghanistan. 

• Canada

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  We used our chairmanship of the G8 to reach out to leaders from Africa and the Americas and to secure an agreement to enact the Muskoka Initiative, for maternal, newborn and child health. Such progress is literally vital in meeting the most achievable of the UN's Millennium Development Goals: to reduce the appalling mortality among mothers and children in developing countries. 

• Cape Verde

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  ONU-Femmes lance recenment par I'ECOSOC est une entite universelle, qui aura pour tache principale de surmonter les obstacles qui ont empeche les quatre organismes qu'elle va regrouper de repondre plus efficacement aux defis en matiere d'egalite entre les sexes et d'autonomisation des femmes.
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• Cape Verde

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  ONU-Femmes s'inscrit dans l'effort de reforme de I'ONU amorce il y a pres de deux decennies, en vue de renforcer la coherence du systeme de I' Organisation et nous tenons a feliciter ici MM. Michelle Bachelet du soutien du Cap Vert dans ses nouvelles et exaltantes taches au service de la defense, de la promotion et de l'autonomisation des femmes. Nous pensons que, la robustesse de son mandat et le role potentiel de catalyseur de la nouvelle entite devraient encourager les donateurs a repondre de maniere positive aux besoins de financements de celle-ci.
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• Cape Verde

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  Si tous nous proclamons les bienfaits de l'egalite entre hommes et femmes et de l'equite en geme, lesquels se repercutent positivement sur le developpement et donc sur la paix et la securite, nous observons qu'une volonte politique accrue au niveau des Etats et un dynamisme nouveau et persistant dans l'action au niveau international sont encore necessaires pour mener a bien la bataille pour faire de la femme un sujet a part entiere du devenir du monde. 

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• Chile

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  I should like also to take this opportunity once again to congratulate my predecessor, Michelle Bachelet, on her recent appointment as United Nations Under-Secretary-General to head UN Women and to express my pride and that of all the Chilean people, at the fact that a compatriot will be heading this global effort to achieve greater equality between men and women. I wish also already to commit our Government to this noble and just cause.  

• China

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  The United Nations, for its part, must continuously maintain the understanding and trust of Member States by ensuring its own transparency and accountability. I hope that, as a test case for the promotion of effective and efficient activities of the United Nations, UN Women, which will be established in January next year by consolidating four gender entities, will function adequately. 

• Costa Rica

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   We саn congratulate ourselves for the children who аге receiving а good education and for the parents who see them grow up without fear that they will sink in war. The youngsters, the workers and peasants with opportunities for а worthy life inspire us, as well as the women who enjoy full their exercise of equality, and the professionals, scientists and entrepreneurs who innovate and generate wealth.

• Croatia

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  I especially welcome UN Women as an important and welcome novelty within the UN system, a body aimed at supporting gender equality and strengthening the position of women. 

• Democratic People's Republic of Korea

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  Furthermore, Korea fully supports the Secretary-General’s pursuit of the Global Strategy for Women’s and Children’s Health, and welcomes the enthusiasm of all stakeholders for this important initiative as well demonstrated at this week’s meeting.  

• Democratic People's Republic of Korea

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  The launch of UN Women is a clear testimony to the world community’s efforts toward this end. Korea commends this historic move to step up progress in meeting the needs of women and girls worldwide.
   

• Democratic People's Republic of Korea

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  Among other things, maternal and child health warrants our special attention as the most off-track goal in most regions. Indeed, improving maternal and child health is the best investment we can make to carry momentum over to all other closely related goals.
  

• Denmark

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  Let me use this opportunity to welcome the establishment of UN Women …we have high expectations that this new organization will contribute to streamlining in the area of gender and women’s rights and development throughout the United Nations system.  

• Estonia

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  The consensus agreement on establishing the Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women) will serve as an extra boost for meeting the development goals as the implications of gender inequality affect all MDGs. Estonia contributes to the achievement of millennium goals through respective UN agencies, funds and we pledge our support to the UN Women as well. 

• Estonia

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  …resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, which must be a stepping stone towards further action at the UN, regional and national levels. Establishing operational guidelines for the protection of women and girls, strengthening accountability mechanisms as well as enhancing women’s participation in peace negotiations and post-conflict peace-building should be a part of these efforts. To this end, Estonia is finalizing a national action plan to enhance our activities. 

• Finland

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  The commitment of all the UN Member States to strengthen promotion of women’s rights, gender equality and gender mainstreaming is welcome. Finland strongly supports UN Women and would like to congratulate President Michelle Bachelet on her appointment. We must assure that the UN Women becomes a strong advocate and actor for women’s rights across the UN work.  

• Finland

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  This year marks the tenth anniversary of the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security. Concrete improvements have been made but we must step up our efforts to turn the objectives into practice. National Action Plans are valuable tools for implementing the Resolution. We completed our own plan in 2008 and have now started a twinning initiative with Kenya. 

• France

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  Our first responsibility, shared, is development. To make sure that all men and women, the ones that have not, decent living conditions. 

• Gabon

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  The era about women is were the UN has had major progress, the recent establishment of a new institution called UN Women, who’s primary mission is to better coordinate all the issues related to gender, clearly demonstrate the fact that our organization has addressed this concern. 

• Gambia

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  A major development in the evolution of the United Nations this year is the creation of the UN Women. As a firm believer in gender equality and women's empowerment, my government will do all in its power to support this entity. We wish the new board well and urge them to accord apolitical center stage to gender issues and policies. 

• Germany

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  It is a fundamental tenet of the UN that women determine their own lives and help decide the fate of their countries. 

• Grenada

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  The formation of the new body, UN Women, aimed principally at promoting the rights of women and girls and equality between the sexes is an early success of UN reform, and is embraced by Grenada. Our desire to actively participate in the fulfillment of the noble objectives of UN Women has led us to seek membership on its Executive Board. I am hopeful that Grenada’s candidacy will receive strong support and be elected. 

• Guatemala

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  We applaud the decision of the General Assembly for having established the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women, and we are pleased that its first Head will be Dr. Michelle Bachelet. 

• Holy See

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  Par conséquent, la majeure garantie que l’Organisation des Nations Unies continuera d’accomplir sa mission historique de maintenir unis et de coordonner tous les États en vue des objectifs communs de la paix, de la sécurité et d’un développement humain intégral pour tous, sera donnée par une référence constante à la dignité de tous les hommes et femmes et par son respect effectif, à commencer par le droit à la vie – même des plus faibles comme les malades en phase terminale et les enfants à naître – et à la liberté religieuse. 

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• Honduras

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  With the objective of generating greater income for families we have launched a financing plan for micro and small businesses, made possible as a result of cooperation from the European Union, Japan, and Taiwan, as well as other states and peoples who have supported our country. In all these programs, our government has made women a priority because we know that in addition to fighting poverty we must combat gender inequity.
   

• India

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  The significant advancement of the UN's reform agenda this year in an area that is clearly at priority of our times, gender equality and women's empowerment, is a matter of satisfaction to our delegation, particularly given the pro active role played by India in the negotiations. I wish to reiterate our strong commitment for UN Women and its strengthening.  

• Iran (Islamic Republic of)

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  The oppressed people of Palestine have lived under the rule of an occupying regime for 60 years, been deprived of freedom, security and the right to self- determination, while the occupiers are given recognition. On a daily basis, the houses are being destroyed over the heads o f innocent women and children.

   

• Iran (Islamic Republic of)

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  Woman is a reflection of God's beauty and is the source o f love and caring. She is the guardian of purity and exquisiteness of the society. The tendency to toughen the souls and behaviors of women deprives them from their very basic right of being a loving mother and a caring wife. It would result in a more violent society with irreversible defects. 

• Iran (Islamic Republic of)

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  Men and women complements each other and family unit with pure, loving and long-lasting relation of the spouses in its center is the guarantee for the continuity and the bringing up generations, for true pleasures, for spreading love and for reforming of the societies. 

• Ireland

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  I warmly welcome the establishment of UN Women. Ireland is committed to supporting this important new body within the UN system, as it promotes greater gender equality and works to enhance the rights and well-being on women worldwide. 

• Ireland

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  We are also working to finalize on national action plan on women, peace, and security in the very near future. 

• Italy

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  Another target of our fight against discrimination is the international initiative to ban female genital mutilation. Since September 2009 Italy together with a group o f African Countries has promoted such an initiative, which hopefully will lead to the presentation o f a Resolution here that fully respects African ownership. FGMs. which violate a woman' s physical integrity, affect millions o f women throughout the world, including in my Country, where 35 thousand such cases have been reported. a 

• Jamaica

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  In advancing the discussions on system-wide coherence, we support the need to improve the operations of the UN at the country level to ensure that the system can appropriately respond to the needs of recipient countries and to prevent the unnecessary imposition of undue conditionalities. In this context, we laud the establishment of the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women) and congratulate former President of Chile, Mrs. Michelle Bachelet on her appointment as Head of UN Women. I am confident that under her leadership significant progress will be made to achieve the goals of gender equality and meeting the special needs of women and girls worldwide. 

• Japan

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  The United Nations, for its part, must continuously maintain the understanding and trust of Member States by ensuring its own transparency and accountability. I hope that, as a test case for the promotion of effective and efficient activities of the United Nations, UN Women, which will be established in January next year by consolidating four gender entities, will function adequately. 

• Kenya

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  As I indicated in my statement to this Assembly three days ago, Kenya has invested significant resources in the pursuit of the Millennium Development Goals. We have recorded substantial progress in poverty reduction and education, in reducing maternal and child mortality, in the fight against HIV/AIDS and Malaria, and in promoting gender equality and empowerment of women.  

• Kuwait

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  We welcome the adoption of the General Assembly to the resolution , entitled: "System-Wide coherence," by which a new composite entity-UN Women - was established to foster the international efforts to accelerate gender equality, women's empowerment and the creation of a Deputy Secretary-General post for this purpose.  

• Kuwait

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  The State of Kuwait is proud in always being in the top positions, on the Arab and international levels with regard to the quality of education, the quality of life, the health care services it provides, as well as in the fields of gender equality, economic position and political freedoms, according to the rankings issued by international organizations, specialized agencies and other non-governmental organizations. 

• Latvia

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  We commend the work of the UN in the promotion of gender equality and welcome the creation of a unified gender entity…This fall we also mark the 10th anniversary of the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on women, peace and security. We see it as an opportunity to review the implementation of the resolution with a view of identifying the best practice and challenges, particularly, regarding equal participation of women in decision-making and eradication of all types of gender-based violence, especially in conflict situations. 

• Lebanon

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  We welcome the statement issued following the High-level  meeting on pursuing the implementation o f the Millennium Development Goals, which contribute to eradicating poverty, promoting education, and improving health services. We also commend the progress achieved by the United Nations in strengthening the role of women, an issue to which Lebanon grants special attention in line with its invigorating role, for it was among the pioneer countries in our region which granted women the right to vote in legislative elections in 1954.
   

• Lithuania

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  Gender equality is another topic of vital importance for the Nations. Gender equality issues are rarely associated with overcoming the economic crises or stopping climate change. However, it has been estimated that the elimination of gender discrimination in the labor market could increase the GDP by as much as 30%. It seems that Lithuanian people have decided to test this estimation in practice! It is of no surprise for us that women in Lithuania hold a number of top positions in politics and in business life. It is only natural that Lithuanian women made their own the famous saying: when the going gets tough, the tough get going! But we need much more of coordinated efforts. Gender equality on a global scale will only become possible when a certain level of security and economic development is achieved…..I strongly hope that the high-level meeting on gender equality issues, which will be held within the framework of the Community of Democracies in Vilnius, Lithuania, on Jun 30 next year, will explore many more new ideas and good practice. Security, environment and gender equality-all are interdependent. And all need to be adequately addressed on the international agenda. It is a prerequisite for ensuring sustainable development.
   

• Luxembourg

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  At the High Level Plenary Meeting on the Millennium Development Goals, which was held earlier this week, we reiterated our collective determination to do everything to free humankind from famine, illiteracy and epidemics and eventually eradicate global inequalities: inequalities between and within continents, regions and countries, men and women. 

• Luxembourg

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  We also need to overcome the systemic fragmentation which has gradually developed since the creation of our Organisation and enhance the coherence of its structures. An important step in this direction has been made this year with the creation of UN Women, the UN Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women.
   

• Malawi

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  The advancement of women and gender equality continues to be the cornerstone for Africa of the new beginning. Women have and continue to play a decisive role in the global, continental and national agendas for democracy, transition and development. I am happy to inform the General Assembly that African governments have intensified the fight against gender-based violence, sexual abuse, discrimination and human trafficking in women and girls. The ultimate objective is to have more coherent and meaningful interventions that will adequately increase the number of women in high decision making positions in the advancement of growth and development. 

• Malawi

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  I am glad to note that maternal, infant and child health and welfare are among the underlying issues in this year’s General Assembly theme. This calls for concerted actions for achievement of the Millennium Development Goals. I am pleased to say that the African Union has reaffirmed its commitments towards the reduction of maternal, infant and child mortality in Africa. To that end, African governments have undertaken to launch the Campaign on Accelerated Reduction on Maternal Mortality in Africa (CARMA) to run for four (4) years. We also agreed to call on the Global Fund for Fight Against HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis, to create a new window to fund Maternal, New born and Child Health. 

• Maldives

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  The Maldives has made great strides in eliminating poverty, in education, and in improving mortality rates among both mothers and infants. However, we have yet to make significant gains in areas for the empowerment of women.  

• Mauritania

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  In the course of the implementation of these programs, Mauritania has turned into big workshops leading to the construction of roads, building health and educational facilities, and the establishment of integrated projects, purpose of which is empowering women and youth to contribute to the economic and social development and to improve the conditions of the poor and the marginalized who have been rejoicing at the election of President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz, which gave him the title of (the President of the poor) for his attention and care for others.

   

• Monaco

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  La place des femmes en tant que moteur du développement n’est plus à démontrer. Je souhaite rendre un hommage particulier au Secrétaire général et à la Vice-Secrétaire générale pour avoir renforcé le rôle des femmes au sein de l’ONU. Monaco se félicite de la nomination de Mme Michelle Bachelet à la tête d’ONU-Femmes et l’assure d’ores et déjà de son plein soutien. 

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• Monaco

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  La Principauté a également fait sienne la conviction qu’investir dans la santé des femmes et des enfants est indispensable pour édifier des sociétés plus stables, plus pacifiques et plus productive, réduire la pauvreté et stimuler la croissance économique. Dans cet esprit, elle soutient la Stratégie mondiale pour la santé de la femme et de l’enfant qui représente un pas supplémentaire vers la pleine autonomisation des femmes.

  **Statement only available in French 

• Mongolia

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  On our part, my Government has recommitted itself, at the summit, to the acceleration of our efforts towards poverty reduction, gender equality and environmental sustainability, the three MDGs where we are lagging behind. We have committed ourselves to a multi-sectoral, participatory and people-centered approach in the MDGs implementation, to improved governance as a foundation for successful development outcomes, and to a better monitoring and evaluation of our work as we move forward. 

• Mongolia

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  As we intensify our poverty reduction efforts at home we plan to focus more on issues of gender equality and the empowerment of women as the critical part of success. My government is confident that the newly created UN-Women will be an important partner in this endeavor. This year, Mongolia presented its National Voluntary Presentation on gender equality and the empowerment of women at the ECOSOC and will proceed to improve the legislative framework enabling women to realize more fully their potential economically and politically, have better access to health services for themselves and their children, and participate more visibly in the democratic governance. 

• Mozambique

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  Mozambique is proud of the progress made by the General Assembly on system-wide coherence. We commend, in particular, the General Assembly for the major step recently undertaken, with the establishment of UN Women. I seize this opportunity to reiterate our congratulations to Her Excellency Mrs. Michelle Bachelet for her appointment as Under Secretary General of the new entity, and pledge our full support and readiness to collaborate for the successful accomplishment of the task of bring gender equality and empowerment of women at the helm of the United Nations' work.  

• Namibia

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  We welcome the General Assembly resolution on System-wide Coherence and the establishment of UN Women, as a dedicated entity to deal with gender-related issues. We hope that this new entity will strengthen the UN's institutional capacity for the support of gender equality and the empowerment of women. My delegation wishes to congratulate Mrs. Michelle Bachelet on her appointment as the first head of UN Women. 

• Namibia

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  The recent African Union Summit held in Kampala in July 2010, focused on maternal, infant and child health and development in Africa. African leaders reaffirmed their commitment to mobilize and devote the resources for the prevention of deaths of women and children from preventable diseases. 

• Nepal

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  We also welcome and strongly support the establishment of the UN-Women, as а single consolidated entity to deal with issues pertaining to gender equality and empowerment of women. 

• Niger

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  N’oublions pas en effet que le 30 Juin 2010, l’Assemblée Générale a créé une entité composite dénommée « ONU-Femmes », qui sera chargée, à partir du 1er janvier 2011, des questions de genre, en lieu et place des quatre Institutions qui, jusque-là, œuvrent à la Promotion de l’Egalité des Sexes et à l’Autonomisation des Femmes. 

• Norway

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  This year in particular, we are heartened to see strong support for improving maternal health and reducing child mortality, the goals that are lagging behind the most. Norway will work with the Secretary-General to ensure that his Global Strategy for Women’s and Children’s Health is transformed into action on the ground.
   

• Norway

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  This year also marks the ten year anniversary of another major UN building block: Security Council resolution 1325 on women, peace and security. Women’s empowerment is not only a crucial factor in sustainable development, but also in sustainable peace.
   

• Norway

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  It is time to make good on commitments made and follow-through on promises that will enable women to take an active role in situations that are a matter of life and death, not only for them, but for their families, communities, even nations. When we take stock in October – we should focus on action taken – and above all on action that needs to be taken. 

• Norway

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  Establishment of UN Women is a system-wide coherence success-story. We congratulate Ms. Bachelet and pledge to support her in delivering on the promises made to UN Women. 

• Oman

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  The role of the Omani Citizen along the path of his country's development is central and indispensible, stemming from the firm conviction of the Leader of Oman's Renaissance, His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, that life is created for mankind, male and female, and that freedom is the соre of life, and free positive expression is the seed of creativity, which is the fuel for development. 

• Pakistan

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  The democratic Government, inspired by the vision of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto, attaches special attention to the promotion and protection of human rights of all segments of society; particularly women, children and minorities.We welcome the creation of new composite Gender entity - the UN Women. We hope it will lead the efforts for promotion of women rights, empowerment and equality throughout the world.
   

• Pakistan

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  This agenda focuses on a propoor growth, boosting rural economy and agriculture, affirmative actions for women and minorities and expansion of social safety nets. 

• Palau

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  With our traditions as our bedrock, I am pleased to say that Palau has achieved our Millennium Development Goals. Palau has succeeded in achieving universal literacy, gender equality, maternal health, and access to education. We have eliminated poverty and hunger and reduced child mortality to a degree comparable with even the most advanced developed countries. 

• Papua New Guinea

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  Рарua New Guinea applauds the commitment of US$40 billion for poverty alleviation, especially to improve the health of children and women. It is our hope that this is а new resource envelope and not repackaged old commitments. 

• Paraguay

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  We welcome the recent appointment of a Paraguayan to take part in the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW). We further commit our efforts to ensure the inclusion of women in all areas of public life as well as the full exercise and enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms on an equal footing with men. 

• Philippines

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  In a world that has become increasingly globalized, the challenges that we face have become globalized as well. Climate change; pandemics; terrorism and weapons of mass destruction; transnational organized crime such as human trafficking and the illicit drug trade; the continuing vulnerability of migrants, women, persons with disabilities, and the poor; and the challenges posed by increasingly interconnected economies all call for a further strengthening of international cooperation. 

• Republic of Moldova

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  We express our solidarity with the appeals articulated during various UN fora to invest more in advancement of women and we support the Secretary General's Global Strategy for Women's and Children's Health. Likewise, we are confident that the new entity "UN Women" will contribute to the consolidation of international efforts in achieving the goals of equality and advancement for all women. 

• Romania

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  I would like warmly to welcome the creation of the U.N. Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women as a significant step of the UN reform 

• Russian Federation

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  To live up to expectations the UN must continuously renew itself. The reform of the Organization is progressively moving forward. This year the negotiations on strengthening the system-wide coherence have been completed successfully. In particular, a new important UN Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women has been established. 

• Saint Kitts and Nevis

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  I applaud the establishment o f the United Nations Entity for Gender and Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women). St. Kitts and Nevis has always played a lead role in women' s empowerment. For us, the occupying of high offices and decision making roles by women have been the norm, a tradition we embrace and continue to cultivate. St. Kitts and Nevis thus remains committed to gender-equal opportunities at home and abroad. We look forward to participating actively in UN Women in the coming years and would be most pleased to share our experiences.
   

• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

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  А few days ago, we learned that women and children living in the tent cities were killed when heavy rain and winds struck Haiti. No one can claim that this result was unexpected, as we in CARICOM have been sounding alarms for months about the dangers inherent in the imminent rainy season. To survive an earthquake, only to be killed by rain, is an unfathomable tragedy. The entirely avoidable deaths of those women and and children will remain a stain on the collective conscience of this body and our membership. 

• San Marino

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  A fundamental element of this Resolution is the establishment of a new entity to be known as UN women, which will be operational stating from 1 January 2011. The mandates of four already existing bodies committed to the promotion of women's rights will be transferred to this new entity, which will strengthen, in terms of capability, efficiency, and responsibility, the United Nations system in the field of gender-equality and the empowerment of women.  

• Sao Tome and Principe

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  We welcome the appointment of Michelet Bachelet, former president of Chile to oversee matters related to women and gender and giving the opportunity to participate in global challenges.  

• Sierra Leone

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  Sierra Leone is among the few countries emerging from conflict that have formulated a comprehensive action plan for Security Council Resolution 1325 and 1820. My government is determined to ensure its effective implementation, particularly in addressing gender-based violence as well as the enhancement of women’s participation in politics and the public sector. 

• Sierra Leone

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  We have launched free healthcare for pregnant and lactating women and children under 5 for the first time in our history, improving access to around 300,000 women and over a million children. 

• Slovakia

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  Eradicating poverty and hunger, improving the quality of education, adequate employment, improving health care services and housing, improving maternal health, gender equality and environmental sustainability remain among the central concerns of UN programmes, funds and specialized agencies. 

• Slovakia

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  Slovakia welcomes the establishment of UN Women – the UN Entity for Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women. We believe that this entity will help curb all forms of violence against women. We also extend our good wishes for a successful mandate to UN Secretary General’s Special Representative on sexual violence in conflict.  

• Slovenia

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  However, we must also consider the importance of crosscutting issues, such as human rights. gender equality and good governance. I therefore applaud the Secretary-General for his leadership and pledge Slovenia's active and extensive support in securing the fulfillment of our promises. 

• Solomon Islands

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  In the issue of UN System-wide Coherence, the General Assembly in July established a new gender entity, “UN Women”. This body will further strengthen UN’s capacity and effectiveness in advancing the status of women universally. Solomon Islands looks forward to cooperating with the new entity.  

• Spain

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  A necessary condition to carry out these objectives is integration on equal terms of almost half the world population: women. The Tenth Anniversary of Resolution 1325, "Women, Peace and Security", should bring us to consolidate gender equality in the public and institutional scopes, as well as in the economic, social and cultural spheres. We can and must make progress in these reforms, because there are positive signs such as the recent creation of UN Women, which will carry out this mandate under President Michelle Bachelet, whom I wish to congratulate for her election to lead this new entity.
   

• Swaziland

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  The Kingdom continues to promote equality in all sectors of our development spheres. We therefore welcome the recent establishment of the new United Nations gender entity, namely UN-Women. Women, the world over, continue to play key roles in contributing to the socio-economic and political development of our nations. 

• Sweden

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  Gender equality remains one of the greatest challenges to human rights and democracy. We therefore welcome the establishment of UN Women and believe it will further the cause of gender equality. 

• Switzerland

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  Gender equality must become a reality. Access to education and health for women and girls has been restricted for decades. They have been victims of poverty more than others. They have also been the targets of systematic violence in armed conflicts. It is high time to make gull use of their potential in mediation and reconstruction in countries affected by conflict. In this context, Switzerland welcomes the creation of “UN Women”, which brings us closer to the fulfillment of this vision. 

• Trinidad and Tobago

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  One area of reform which I hold dearly is the establishment of UN Women, an entity that consolidates four previous agencies dealing with gender equality and the empowerment of women. I am confident that this venture which will become fully operational by January 2011 would provide a coherent approach in attending to issues affecting women internationally. It is my hope that UN Women would receive the support of all States.  

• Trinidad and Tobago

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  I wish to announce that Trinidad and Tobago will introduce in the First Committee of the General Assembly devoted to disarmament, internal peace and security, a resolution on "women, disarmament, arms control and non proliferation. 

• Tunisia

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  This step consists in the adoption of resolution 289/64, which reaffirms the importance we all attach to the development of the UN system and the promotion of complementary between UN activities and programmes, especially those pertaining to women, through establishing a new unified entity to be in charge of all issues related to gender equality and women empowerment. ….women, infact, have a strategic role in our civilization project, and are considered as a partner in setting all our national choices. Tunisia strongly believes that democracy cannot be built and comprehensive development cannot be achieved without an active involvement of women in public life, and that promoting society to higher levels depends on enhancing the conditions of women in all fields. This conviction stems from our vision of human rights in theircomprehensiveness, indissociability and complementary. 

• Tunisia

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  The prestigious status Tunisian women enjoy today is confirmed by the figures and indicators pertaining to human development and to women’s involvement in all fields. They hold 30% of decision-making and responsibility positions. They represent 33% in the judicial corps, and 42% in the medical corps. In higher education, girls account for 60% of the total number of students. 

• Tuvalu

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  The participation of women in Tuvalu society is prominent, although representation in parliament remains an issue. 

• Uganda

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  It is only in the areas of maternal and child health that we may not achieve the set targets by 2015. However, in Uganda, we have developed a National Roadmap to accelerate the reduction of maternal and child mortality and morbidity. This is our comprehensive strategy which clearly spells out our national priorities. In this regard, we have prioritized 4 key interventions which include: effective antenatal care, skilled attendance at birth, emergency care for women who experience complications of child birth as well as family planning. We have also prioritized infrastructure that supports and strengthens the healthcare system. Regarding MDG 6, Uganda had made tremendous efforts regarding HIV/AIDS prevention and control. We are now renewing our efforts to deal with the challenges of this epidemic. 
   

• Ukraine

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  Ukraine approaches with full responsibility the issues of poverty eradication, providing high- quality education, developing proper conditions for preservation of environment, improving maternal health and reducing child mortality, curbing HIV/ AIDS and tuberculosis, and ensuring gender equality. 

• Ukraine

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   The United Nations should not be an observer but an architect of events. For this to happen, it urgently needs to undergo a comprehensive reform. Ukraine welcomes the progress we see in organizational consolidation of the UN, in particular in the areas of gender equality and peace-building.

• United Arab Emirates

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  With regard to the empowerment and advancement of women at the global level, we welcome the efforts of the Secretary-General in the area of the advancement of women and establishment of a new international enity on women (UN Women).  

• United Arab Emirates

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  The United Arab Emirates has enacted numerous national legislations and decisions with the view to advancing women in the United Arab Emirates. Our government will continue its efforts in this regard in order to ensure that all obstacles to the protection and advancement of women are removed, and increase their participation in the decision-making process at all levels. 

• United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

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  We should never apologise for promoting the idea that women and men are equal; never flinch from insisting that governments chosen by their people are better; never shy away from our insistence that nobody should be silenced because of their religion or beliefs. 

• United Republic of Tanzania

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  Having just concluded a successful MDG Summit. I would like to congratulate the Secretary General, His Excellency Ban Ki-moon for his leadership, dedication and commitment to the work of the Organization and for the new momentum he is bringing towards the achievement of the MDGs. Once again we welcome his Global Strategy on Women' s and Children's Health and urge the International Community to render the necessary support for its implementation.

   

   

• United Republic of Tanzania

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  We join others in welcoming the adoption of the General Assembly Resolution 64/289 on System Wide Coherence that among other things, established the UN Women. It is our hope that the UN Women will receive the required support from the International Community and the entire UN System to deliver on its mandate. Tanzania congratulates Ms. Michelle Bachelet, for her appointment to head the UN Women. We assure her of Tanzania's unwavering support as she discharges her duties.
   

• United States of America

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  America is working to shape a world that fosters this openness, for the rot of a closed or corrupt economy must never eclipse the energy and innovation of human beings. All of us want the right to educate our children; to make a decent wage; to care for the sick; and to be carried as far as our dreams and deeds will take us. But that depends upon economies that tap the power of our people, including the potential of women and girls. 

• United States of America

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  We can waste more time by carrying forward an argument that will not help a single Israeli or Palestinian child achieve a better life. We can do that. Or, we can say that this time will be different – that this time we will not let terror, or turbulence, or posturing, or petty politics stand in the way. This time, we will think not of ourselves, but of the young girl in Gaza who wants to have no ceiling on her dreams.
  

• United States of America

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  It should be clear to all that efforts to chip away at Israel’s legitimacy will only be met by the unshakeable opposition of the United States. And efforts to threaten or kill Israelis will do nothing to help the Palestinian people – the slaughter of innocent Israelis is not resistance, it is injustice. Make no mistake: the courage of a man like President Abbas – who stands up for his people in front of the world – is far greater than those who fire rockets at innocent women and children. 

• United States of America

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  Outside the doors of this hall, the blocks and neighborhoods of this great city tell the story of a difficult decade. Nine years ago, the destruction of the World Trade Center signaled a threat that respected no boundary of dignity or decency. Two years ago this month, a financial crisis on Wall Street devastated American families on Main Street. These separate challenges have affected people around the globe. Men, women and children have been murdered by extremists from Casablanca to London, from Jalalabad to Jakarta. 

• Uruguay

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  We reaffirm our full support to the incorporation of the gender perspective in all policies of the United Nations system. Regarding this, we applaud the adoption of the resolution on the coherence of the United Nations system in creating the new UN Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN WOMEN). 

• Vanuatu

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  My government also joins all other Heads of Governments who are member of the UN Family in congratulating the Secretary General of the United Nations, in bringing into reality the four years efforts in creating the office of UN WOMEN a new entity formally established by the UN General Assembly as of July of this year. This decision gives more prominence to women and their place in our societies.
   

• Zambia

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  In this regard, our government welcomes the establishment of the UN Women, the United Nations entity for gender equality and the empowerment of women, and the appointment of Ms Michelle Bachelet, the former president of Chile to the head of the Unit. It is our hope that the new entity will have a strong and effective presence at the country level and help member states implement standards, and provide them with the much needed technical and financial support required to achieve women's empowerment, equality, and equity. 

• Zambia

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  The government of Zambia recognizes the important role that women play in the attainment of development. Furthermore, we recognize that the empowerment of women and their inclusion in the decision making process has enhanced their role in development. It is for this reason, that Zambia has integrated women in all sectors of society in decision-making positions. We are committed to doing even more. 

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• UN and Civil Society Speakers

• Ban Ki-Moon Secretary General of the United Nations

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  We must draw on lessons learned over the past decade:
  Helping people to help themselves;
  Investing resources where they have the greatest effect — smart investment in education, decent work, health, smallholder agriculture, infrastructure and green energy;the importance of putting women at the fore.
  

  That is why, at the Summit, I welcomed the endorsement of our Global Strategy for Women and Children’s Health.
  Backed by billions of dollars in new commitments … from governments, business, NGOs and philanthropic organizations … this was a tangible expression of global solidarity.
  That is also why, last week, I named a dynamic new head of UN Women.
  In Michelle Bachelet, the former President of Chile, we found a global leader who can inspire millions of women and girls around the world. We must support her to the utmost. Because … by empowering women, we empower societies. 

• Joseph Deiss President of the General Assembly

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  With its 192 Member States, our General Assembly is a near-universal body and reflects the diversity of situations and interests at stake. It is there to promote the rights of every woman and man on our planet. 

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 UN Member States

• UN Member States

• Bangladesh

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  Our government has revived the "National Women Development Policy" adopted during our last tenure of office (1996-2001) . At present, beside the Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition, the Deputy Leader, and a Whip, there are 5 women cabinet ministers and 45 MPs against reserved seats. Moreover, 19 women MPs have been directly elected. Women also occupy 30% reserved seats in all governments. They are encouraged to participate in politics and administration, and are recruited in all professions, including the armed services. They are also serving in the United Nations peacekeeping operations.
   

• Bangladesh

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  Our government has revived the "National Women Development Policy" adopted during our last tenure of office ( 1996- - 2001). At present, beside the Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition, the Deputy Leader, and a Whip, there are 5 women cabinet ministers and 45 MPs against reserved seats. Moreover, 19 women MPs have been directly elected. Women also occupy 30% reserved seats in all governments. They are encouraged to participate in politics and administration, and are recruited in all professions, including the armed services. They are also serving in the United Nations peacekeeping operations.
   

• Lebanon

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  We welcome the statement issued following the High-level  meeting on pursuing the implementation o f the Millennium Development Goals, which contribute to eradicating poverty, promoting education, and improving health services. We also commend the progress achieved by the United Nations in strengthening the role of women, an issue to which Lebanon grants special attention in line with its invigorating role, for it was among the pioneer countries in our region which granted women the right to vote in legislative elections in 1954.
   

• Papua New Guinea

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  In line with our commitment towards MDG 3, my Government has tabled before the Papua New Guinea legislature а proposed legislation to reserve 22 seats for women in the National Parliament. 

• Slovenia

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  However, we must also consider the importance of crosscutting issues, such as human rights. gender equality and good governance. I therefore applaud the Secretary-General for his leadership and pledge Slovenia's active and extensive support in securing the fulfillment of our promises. 

• Timor-Leste

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  Women make almost 30% the deputies in National Parliament. the executive branch, key cabinet positions, namely, Finance, Justice, Social Solidarity, Prosecutor-General, etc аге held by women.  

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 UN Member States

• UN Member States

• Fiji

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  Fiji was also present at the June review conference of the Rome Statue of the International Criminal Court held in Uganda and is of course supportive of the work of the ICC. Reforms taking place in our laws and in our outlook help us to comply with the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). They also support our efforts to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

  
   

• Mauritius

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  A fundamental precondition for socio-economic development rests on a process of social inclusivity - with the human rights at its core. As a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council, Mauritius is firmly committed to the safeguard and protection of the human rights both at the national and international level. In this regard, we unreservedly condemn the serious human rights violations committed by warring factions in conflict zones where the vulnerable members of the society particularly children and women are being targeted. 

• Mongolia

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  As we intensify our poverty reduction efforts at home we plan to focus more on issues of gender equality and the empowerment of women as the critical part of success. My government is confident that the newly created UN-Women will be an important partner in this endeavor. This year, Mongolia presented its National Voluntary Presentation on gender equality and the empowerment of women at the ECOSOC and will proceed to improve the legislative framework enabling women to realize more fully their potential economically and politically, have better access to health services for themselves and their children, and participate more visibly in the democratic governance. 

• Morocco

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  In this respect, Morocco has launched major projects and the substantial progress made towards expanding the scope of individual and collective freedoms, safeguarding human dignity and promoting the rights of its citizens - especially those of women, children and people with special needs - has been widely recognized.
   

• Panama

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  Panama has played an active role in favor of the international community at important times for the United Nations. Among them are included the Security Council, the Human Rights Commission and Committee, as well as the Committee for the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women.
   

• San Marino

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  I would like to underline on this occasion the fundamental importance of the efforts made by the international community and of the pressure exerted by civil society to achieve higher standards of human rights protection. Moreover, we cannot forget that women and children are always the most vulnerable section of society in situations where rights and fundamental freedoms are violated.

• San Marino

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  Women's Rights: The Republic of San Marino pays special attention to this theme and it has promoted, over the last few years, several national initiatives, which have made the women in San Marino aware of their rights and of the State protection mechanisms offered to them.  

• San Marino

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  At the international level, San Marino has joined several campaigns aimed at raising public awareness and that of national authorities on women's rights, such as the campaign “Unite to End Violence Against Women”, launched by the Secretary General in 2008.

   

• Thailand

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  We have also contributed to the international human rights norm-setting on enhancing the lives of female inmates through... the draft of United Nations Rules for the Treatment of Women Prisoners and Non-custodial measures for women offenders submitted for the G.A.'s consideration. 

• United Arab Emirates

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  Women’s rights and gender issues are an essential part of human rights. The women’s rights agenda supports and strengthens the overall effort of human rights implementation.

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 UN Member States

• UN Member States

• Fiji

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  Over the past year, the Fiji government has effected a number of legal changes that have not only modernized our laws and brought about gender and social parity, but has also ensured compliance with international conventions. These changes include but are not limited to the Crimes Decree, which removes archaic rules in respect of rape trials.
   

• Fiji

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  “We have implemented for the first time a comprehensive law against domestic violence to be consistent with our international obligations and protect the welfare of women and children. We now have child welfare laws which compel the reporting of violence against children or suspicion of abuse of minors. These and other new laws assist in the compliance of the Rome Statue by recognizing and incorporating crimes against humanity in our domestic laws.
   

• Fiji

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  Fiji was also present at the June review conference of the Rome Statue of the International Criminal Court held in Uganda and is of course supportive of the work of the ICC. Reforms taking place in our laws and in our outlook help us to comply with the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). They also support our efforts to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

  
   

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 UN Member States

• UN Member States

• Afghanistan

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  With this objective in mind, the Afghan Government convened a "Consultative Peace Jirga" in May of this year. The Jirga fulfilled President Karzai's promise to consult and engage all Afghans in peace-building initiatives. The Jirga, which assembled tribal leaders, representatives of provincial councils, parliamentarians, businesses, civil society, and had over 20% female participation, helped to jump-start a representative peace and reconciliation process that will be pursued in conformity with our Constitution and human rights commitments. 

• Bangladesh

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  Our government has revived the "National Women Development Policy" adopted during our last tenure of office (1996-2001) . At present, beside the Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition, the Deputy Leader, and a Whip, there are 5 women cabinet ministers and 45 MPs against reserved seats. Moreover, 19 women MPs have been directly elected. Women also occupy 30% reserved seats in all governments. They are encouraged to participate in politics and administration, and are recruited in all professions, including the armed services. They are also serving in the United Nations peacekeeping operations.
   

• Bangladesh

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  Our government has revived the "National Women Development Policy" adopted during our last tenure of office ( 1996- - 2001). At present, beside the Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition, the Deputy Leader, and a Whip, there are 5 women cabinet ministers and 45 MPs against reserved seats. Moreover, 19 women MPs have been directly elected. Women also occupy 30% reserved seats in all governments. They are encouraged to participate in politics and administration, and are recruited in all professions, including the armed services. They are also serving in the United Nations peacekeeping operations.
   

• Cape Verde

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  Il nous faut proteger et autonomiser les femmes. Nous croyons fermement que l'une des grandes revolutions a mener a notre epoque est celle qui verra la femme devenir reellement une partenaire a part entiere de I'homme dans leur quete conunune de progreso Au Cap Vert, il y a eu des gains consequents en ce qui conceme l' egalite et l' equite en genre, mais de grands defis demeurent. Par exemple, le Gouvemement actuel compte 8 femmes sur les 14 Ministres qui le forment; le rapport sur la realisation des ODM, de 20 la indique que le Cap Vert a atteint la parite de genre dans l'education primaire et secondaire et que dans certains cas le ratio de presence des filles est superieur a celui des garcons.
  **Statement only available in French 

• Finland

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  Lasting solutions to global challenges cannot be found without women’s active participation in decision-making at all levels. Women are agents of change and development. Investing in women and girls has a vital effect on eradication of poverty and sustained economic growth. Having heard the discussions this week, I am happy to conclude that there has clearly been a breakthrough in this respect. This is a good basis to continue from. Women and men together can achieve a truly sustainable development.
   

• Iceland

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  Our foreign policy has always reflected high priority on gender equality. This year we celebrate that 95 years have passed since women gained the right to vote, and 30 years ago a women was first elected President. For the first time, our Government is now led by a woman… Iceland will be a strong supporter of UN Women, as we have been through the transitional phase. Another cause for this assembly to celebrate is the ten year anniversary of resolution 1325. It has been a priority of our foreign policy, and let the nations of the UN combine to celebrate by raising the participation of women in peace negotiations. Empowering women is empowering society. But it is exactly with reference to women’s rights that we have learned with utter sadness about the decision of Iranian courts to stone to death an Iranian woman, Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani. President Ahmadinejad, on behalf of the Icelandic people I ask you to spare Ashtiani.
   

• Iraq

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  Iraqi women enjoy important status in the new Iraq and have equality with men in their political rights. Women have granted a 25% share in representation in the Iraqi Council of Representatives……the women of Iraq have assumed many important ministerial positions and represents their country as Ambassadors after having been deprived of these rights for more than 30 years… 

• Liberia

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  We are pleased to note the progress the world has made in the  advancement of women. Today, there is greater representation of women in government, in political life, business and in civil society organizations. Liberia's own effort was recognized on Sunday when we received an award for our progress on Goal 3, empowerment of women.
   

• Lithuania

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  Gender equality is another topic of vital importance for the Nations. Gender equality issues are rarely associated with overcoming the economic crises or stopping climate change. However, it has been estimated that the elimination of gender discrimination in the labor market could increase the GDP by as much as 30%. It seems that Lithuanian people have decided to test this estimation in practice! It is of no surprise for us that women in Lithuania hold a number of top positions in politics and in business life. It is only natural that Lithuanian women made their own the famous saying: when the going gets tough, the tough get going! But we need much more of coordinated efforts. Gender equality on a global scale will only become possible when a certain level of security and economic development is achieved…..I strongly hope that the high-level meeting on gender equality issues, which will be held within the framework of the Community of Democracies in Vilnius, Lithuania, on Jun 30 next year, will explore many more new ideas and good practice. Security, environment and gender equality-all are interdependent. And all need to be adequately addressed on the international agenda. It is a prerequisite for ensuring sustainable development.
   

• Malawi

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  The advancement of women and gender equality continues to be the cornerstone for Africa of the new beginning. Women have and continue to play a decisive role in the global, continental and national agendas for democracy, transition and development. I am happy to inform the General Assembly that African governments have intensified the fight against gender-based violence, sexual abuse, discrimination and human trafficking in women and girls. The ultimate objective is to have more coherent and meaningful interventions that will adequately increase the number of women in high decision making positions in the advancement of growth and development. 

• Nepal

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  The 601-member Constituent Assembly of Nepal stands today as one of the most inclusive assemblies, where women constitute one third of its total members. Тhе Assembly has the representation from different ethnic groups, backward regions, traditionally marginalized communities, among other. 

• Paraguay

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  We welcome the recent appointment of a Paraguayan to take part in the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW). We further commit our efforts to ensure the inclusion of women in all areas of public life as well as the full exercise and enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms on an equal footing with men. 

• Saint Kitts and Nevis

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  I applaud the establishment o f the United Nations Entity for Gender and Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women). St. Kitts and Nevis has always played a lead role in women' s empowerment. For us, the occupying of high offices and decision making roles by women have been the norm, a tradition we embrace and continue to cultivate. St. Kitts and Nevis thus remains committed to gender-equal opportunities at home and abroad. We look forward to participating actively in UN Women in the coming years and would be most pleased to share our experiences.
   

• Sweden

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  The recent reports of sexual violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with shocking news of hundreds of rapes of women and children, are not isolated incidents. They are a part of a pattern of conflict-related crimes that have been carried out with impunity over many years. As so often in conflict situations, women and children are the most vulnerable groups. As so often in peace process, women are the most ignored. A lasting peace calls for the empowerment and equal participation of women in negotiations and decision- making. Lasting peace can never be achieved while there is impunity. It is high time to fully implement Resolutions 1325 on women, peace and security, and 1820 on sexual violence in conflict situations. Sweden welcomes the appointment off Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict. 

• Timor-Leste

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  Women make almost 30% the deputies in National Parliament. the executive branch, key cabinet positions, namely, Finance, Justice, Social Solidarity, Prosecutor-General, etc аге held by women.  

• Tunisia

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  The prestigious status Tunisian women enjoy today is confirmed by the figures and indicators pertaining to human development and to women’s involvement in all fields. They hold 30% of decision-making and responsibility positions. They represent 33% in the judicial corps, and 42% in the medical corps. In higher education, girls account for 60% of the total number of students. 

• Tunisia

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  It is indeed a source of pride for Tunisia to be ranked first internationally in terms of fighting violence against women and guaranteeing their right to free movement and ownership, to be ranked first in the Arab world in terms of offering women opportunities of economic participation, and to be ranked first I Africa in terms of women’s per capita income. 

• Zambia

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  The government of Zambia recognizes the important role that women play in the attainment of development. Furthermore, we recognize that the empowerment of women and their inclusion in the decision making process has enhanced their role in development. It is for this reason, that Zambia has integrated women in all sectors of society in decision-making positions. We are committed to doing even more. 

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 UN Member States

• UN Member States

• Afghanistan

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  With this objective in mind, the Afghan Government convened a "Consultative Peace Jirga" in May of this year. The Jirga fulfilled President Karzai's promise to consult and engage all Afghans in peace-building initiatives. The Jirga, which assembled tribal leaders, representatives of provincial councils, parliamentarians, businesses, civil society, and had over 20% female participation, helped to jump-start a representative peace and reconciliation process that will be pursued in conformity with our Constitution and human rights commitments. 

• Austria

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  “Equally, Austria attaches utmost importance to enhancing the role of women in conflict and post-conflict situations. Even 10 years after the adoption of Resolution 1325 on women, peace, and security, we can still witness major gaps: Women continue to be largely absent in peace processes and conflict resolution efforts, and crimes against them all too often remain unpunished. The latest shocking mass rapes in Eastern Congo demonstrate more than ever that there is urgent need for action. We cannot afford to ignore these gaps. The occasion of the 10th anniversary of resolution 1325, will, therefore, provide a crucial opportunity to work towards a more consistent implementation in promoting women’s issues in all aspects of international peace efforts. These efforts are fully supported by our development cooperation. 

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 UN Member States

• UN Member States

• Bulgaria

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  Their efforts should be appreciated and fully supported by the international community. I want to also pay tribute to the brave men and women of all ISAF contributing nations, including the 600 odd Bulgarian troops who risk their lives to bring security to the people of Afghanistan. 

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 UN Member States

• UN Member States

• Namibia

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  In 2000, while serving as a member of the Security Council, Namibia initiated and introduced a theme on Women, Peace and Security, which resulted in the adoption of Resolution 1325. Our objective was to highlight the plight of women in conflict situations and to recognize the vital role that they can play in peace-making efforts for effective resolution of conflicts. As we commemorate the first decade of this resolution, let us recommit ourselves to the protection of women and girls in conflict situations in all parts of the world. 

• San Marino

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  Women's Rights: The Republic of San Marino pays special attention to this theme and it has promoted, over the last few years, several national initiatives, which have made the women in San Marino aware of their rights and of the State protection mechanisms offered to them.  

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 UN Member States

• UN Member States

• Mexico

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  In the Democratic Republic of Congo impunity prevails and, despite the presence of United Nations forces, outrageous and unacceptable crimes аге committed against civilians, particularly women and children. The reconstruction of Haiti after the terrible earthquake last January, which affected also UN personnel, is taking place under dramatic conditions. The list of challenges is endless and there is indeed а risk of а backdrop and escalation of violence in several critical regions of the world. 

• Namibia

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  In 2000, while serving as a member of the Security Council, Namibia initiated and introduced a theme on Women, Peace and Security, which resulted in the adoption of Resolution 1325. Our objective was to highlight the plight of women in conflict situations and to recognize the vital role that they can play in peace-making efforts for effective resolution of conflicts. As we commemorate the first decade of this resolution, let us recommit ourselves to the protection of women and girls in conflict situations in all parts of the world. 

• New Zealand

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  We are also contributing to UN efforts to strengthen peacebuilding in practice, including the need for better participation of women in peacebuilding.  

• Ukraine

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   The United Nations should not be an observer but an architect of events. For this to happen, it urgently needs to undergo a comprehensive reform. Ukraine welcomes the progress we see in organizational consolidation of the UN, in particular in the areas of gender equality and peace-building.

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 UN Member States

• UN Member States

• Democratic Republic of the Congo

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  Concernant la justice particulierernent, Je voudrais M'appesantir quelque peu sur Ie calvaire des femmes congolaises des provinces du Nord et du Sud-Kivu.  L'insecurite est la cause principale de cette traqedie. Les groupes armes qui se nourrissent de I'exploitation illegale des matieres premieres sont a la base de ce fleau. Nous avons, a cet eftet, arrete des mesures appropriees pour faire face a cette situation inacceptable. 

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 UN Member States

• UN Member States

• Andorra

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  The struggle against violence towards women is one of the priorities of the government I represent. This past April we created the Ministry for Equality and Well-Being, which has the objective of coordinating all initiatives directed at improving the status of women as well as to promote new policies on gender. This year we celebrate fifteenth anniversary of the Declaration and Programme of Action adopted at the Fourth World Conference on Women held in Beijing. During the latest session of the Commission on the Status of Women which took place in March we acknowledged that the role of women is essential to ensuring sustainable social and economic development in general. The status of women has improved, but unfortunately not enough. We must continue to promote the rights of women and fight against domestic violence. According to a report from the United Nations Office for Drugs and Crime, the most lucrative illegal activity in Europe is human trafficking. In Europe, 84 percent of the people who are trafficked are destined for the global sex trade. It is important to approach this matter with an emphasis on protecting the victims, as surely the United Nations Global Plan of Action to Combat Trafficking in Persons, adopted on 30 July, will. 
   

• Australia

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  The education of women and girls, and the security of women and giris from violence and sexual abuse and exploitation, must now become a core part of our global campaign for a fairer world. 

• Austria

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  “Equally, Austria attaches utmost importance to enhancing the role of women in conflict and post-conflict situations. Even 10 years after the adoption of Resolution 1325 on women, peace, and security, we can still witness major gaps: Women continue to be largely absent in peace processes and conflict resolution efforts, and crimes against them all too often remain unpunished. The latest shocking mass rapes in Eastern Congo demonstrate more than ever that there is urgent need for action. We cannot afford to ignore these gaps. The occasion of the 10th anniversary of resolution 1325, will, therefore, provide a crucial opportunity to work towards a more consistent implementation in promoting women’s issues in all aspects of international peace efforts. These efforts are fully supported by our development cooperation. 

• Cape Verde

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  Les femmes souffrent de la violence sexuelle devenue desormais une arme de guerre et les enfants-soldats sont utilises avec d'autant moins de scrupule qu'ils sont utilises souvent.

  **Statement only available in French. 
   

• Democratic Republic of the Congo

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  Concernant la justice particulierernent, Je voudrais M'appesantir quelque peu sur Ie calvaire des femmes congolaises des provinces du Nord et du Sud-Kivu.  L'insecurite est la cause principale de cette traqedie. Les groupes armes qui se nourrissent de I'exploitation illegale des matieres premieres sont a la base de ce fleau. Nous avons, a cet eftet, arrete des mesures appropriees pour faire face a cette situation inacceptable. 

• Democratic Republic of the Congo

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  Desormais, la Republique Democratique du Congo s'attaque aux causes de la violence faite a la femme, aux causes des conflits recurrents, et en meme temps elle renforce son appareil judiciaire de maniere a conjuguer ensemble paix, justice et securite. La lutte contre l'impunite est une option fondamentale de l'action gouvernementale. 

• El Salvador

  Another reality I must mention is that in our region there are very high indices of violence against women, which also requires that we give this problem its due attention. 

• Luxembourg

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  The mass rapes and sexual assaults which took place in North Kivu this summer and the inability of the UN Mission for Stabilisation in the Democratic Republic of Congo to protect civilians are a brutal reminder of the difficulties surrounding peacekeeping in conflict areas in the absence of adequate resources and mandates.
  These atrocities are urging us to continue the debate on the future of peacekeeping operations and to overcome our differences and divisions on this particular issue.
  They also stress once again the importance of consistent UN commitment to eradicate the utilisation of sexual violence as a weapon in wartimes. I thus welcome the appointment by the Secretary General of Margot Wallstrom as Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict. As we celebrate this year the 10th anniversary of resolution 1325 on women, peace and security, such heinous acts, such gross violations of human rights cannot be tolerated any longer. Impunity must end.
   

• Malawi

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  The advancement of women and gender equality continues to be the cornerstone for Africa of the new beginning. Women have and continue to play a decisive role in the global, continental and national agendas for democracy, transition and development. I am happy to inform the General Assembly that African governments have intensified the fight against gender-based violence, sexual abuse, discrimination and human trafficking in women and girls. The ultimate objective is to have more coherent and meaningful interventions that will adequately increase the number of women in high decision making positions in the advancement of growth and development. 

• Mexico

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  In the Democratic Republic of Congo impunity prevails and, despite the presence of United Nations forces, outrageous and unacceptable crimes аге committed against civilians, particularly women and children. The reconstruction of Haiti after the terrible earthquake last January, which affected also UN personnel, is taking place under dramatic conditions. The list of challenges is endless and there is indeed а risk of а backdrop and escalation of violence in several critical regions of the world. 

• Monaco

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  Alors que les atrocités qui continuent d’être commises contre les civils et en particulier la lâcheté criminelle des violences sexuelles, nous saluons le courage et l’engagement de la Représentante spéciale, Mme Margot Wallström en vue de responsabiliser la communauté internationale et d’assurer la mise en oeuvre effective de la résolution 1325, au seuil du 10ème anniversaire de son adoption.  

• San Marino

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  At the international level, San Marino has joined several campaigns aimed at raising public awareness and that of national authorities on women's rights, such as the campaign “Unite to End Violence Against Women”, launched by the Secretary General in 2008.

   

• Slovakia

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  Slovakia welcomes the establishment of UN Women – the UN Entity for Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women. We believe that this entity will help curb all forms of violence against women. We also extend our good wishes for a successful mandate to UN Secretary General’s Special Representative on sexual violence in conflict.  

• Sweden

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  The recent reports of sexual violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with shocking news of hundreds of rapes of women and children, are not isolated incidents. They are a part of a pattern of conflict-related crimes that have been carried out with impunity over many years. As so often in conflict situations, women and children are the most vulnerable groups. As so often in peace process, women are the most ignored. A lasting peace calls for the empowerment and equal participation of women in negotiations and decision- making. Lasting peace can never be achieved while there is impunity. It is high time to fully implement Resolutions 1325 on women, peace and security, and 1820 on sexual violence in conflict situations. Sweden welcomes the appointment off Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict. 

• Tunisia

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  It is indeed a source of pride for Tunisia to be ranked first internationally in terms of fighting violence against women and guaranteeing their right to free movement and ownership, to be ranked first in the Arab world in terms of offering women opportunities of economic participation, and to be ranked first I Africa in terms of women’s per capita income. 

• United States of America

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   It’s time to welcome the efforts of UN Women to protect the rights of women around the globe. It’s time for every member state to open its elections to international monitors, and to increase the UN Democracy Fund. It’s time to reinvigorate UN peacekeeping, so that missions have the resources necessary to succeed, and so atrocities like sexual violence are prevented and justice is enforced – because neither dignity nor democracy can thrive without basic security.

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 UN Member States

• UN Member States

• Costa Rica

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  We саn congratulate ourselves for the children who аге receiving а good education and for the parents who see them grow up without fear that they will sink in war. The youngsters, the workers and peasants with opportunities for а worthy life inspire us, as well as the women who enjoy full their exercise of equality, and the professionals, scientists and entrepreneurs who innovate and generate wealth. 

• Fiji

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  “We have implemented for the first time a comprehensive law against domestic violence to be consistent with our international obligations and protect the welfare of women and children. We now have child welfare laws which compel the reporting of violence against children or suspicion of abuse of minors. These and other new laws assist in the compliance of the Rome Statue by recognizing and incorporating crimes against humanity in our domestic laws.
   

• Italy

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  Another target of our fight against discrimination is the international initiative to ban female genital mutilation. Since September 2009 Italy together with a group o f African Countries has promoted such an initiative, which hopefully will lead to the presentation of a Resolution here that fully respects African ownership. FGMs. which violate a woman' s physical integrity, affect millions of women throughout the world, including in my Country, where 35 thousand such cases have been reported.

  Women' s rights and national progress go hand in hand but women are still suffering in many countries throughout the world. By pooling together our efforts we can ensure the necessary consensus for resolutions that safeguard our own and future generations from prejudice and intolerance. In this spirit we welcome the creation of "UN Women" within the Secretariat and hope that it quickly becomes operative.
   

• Maldives

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  The Maldives' transition to a democracy is accompanied by our evolution from an abuser of human rights to a staunch advocate for them. We are proud of what we have achieved, but are the first to recognize that there is no shortage of challenges that require our immediate attention. These include the need to abrogate the use of torture, the need to safeguard the rights of women, children and the disabled, and the need to improve our capacity to deal with human trafficking in our region.  

• Netherlands

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  The Dutch government considers it unacceptable that people, often women, are still being stoned to death in 2010. We must continue to resist this practice with every ounce of our being. 

• Panama

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  Panama has played an active role in favor of the international community at important times for the United Nations. Among them are included the Security Council, the Human Rights Commission and Committee, as well as the Committee for the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women.
   

• United States of America

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  Human rights have never gone unchallenged – not in any of our nations, and not in our world. Tyranny is still with us – whether it manifests itself in the Taliban killing girls who try to go to school, a North Korean regime that enslaves its own people, or armed groups in Congo-Kinshasa that use rape as a weapon of war. 

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