|
6th
Anniversary of SCR 1325
October 2006
Thematic
compilation of statements at UN Security Council Open Debate
Open
Debate | Arria
Formula Meeting | UN
Secretary-General's Report |
THEMATIC
INDEX |INDEX
TO STATEMENTS MADE AT OPEN DEBATE
NGO
Working Group Recommendations to Member States
Statements
were included if they mentioned the particular theme, regardless
of what was said about the theme.
Theme:
Women's Participation
Argentina
H.E. Mr. Cesar Mayoral, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
From a human rights perspective,
Argentina attaches high priority to the situation of women in
armed conflict and the participation of women in peace processes
and in peace consolidation. Resolution 1325 is the legal framework
that allows this participation to become effective both at the
national and at the international level.
Australia
H.E. Mr Robert Hill, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
More broadly, gender equality
has been clearly articulated as an overarching principle in the
new White Paper on Australia's aid program. A new Gender Policy
is being developed to underpin this commitment and practical guidelines
have been developed to address policy issues and operational strategies
for promoting the role of women, including in peace-building.
We stress, however, that the
concerns of women must be addressed, not just in the early stages
of peace processes, but also in post-conflict rehabilitation and
reconstruction and broader development efforts. Gender equality
is fundamental to not just achieving peace but also longer-term
development and the prevention on of conflict.
Bangladesh
H.E. Dr. Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Canada
H.E. Mr. John McNee, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
In order for peace consolidation
to effectively integrate gender equality and women's rights, we
need to focus both on increased direct participation of women
in peace processes as well as on institutional reform that is
gender-aware.
China
H.E. Mr. Liu Zhenmin, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative
It is imperative to heed women's
special needs and concerns at the different stages of conflict
prevention, peace-keeping and peacebuilding. Their potential and
role should also be fully recognized and tapped. Women should
enjoy full decision-making power in the peace process as they
can provide firm support and a solid foundation for the hard-won
peace.
Colombia
H.E. Mrs Maria Angela Holguin, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
In order to implement Security
Council resolution 1325 (2000), our National Development Plan,
set out in the chapter on social equity, is mandated to carry
out policies in favour of women pursuant to cross-cutting gender
criteria coordinated by the Presidential Advisory Office for the
Equality of Women. The Advisory Office — the guiding entity
for governmental policies in that field — has outlined a
policy on women as peacebuilders and promoters of development.
That is the starting point from which to articulate objectives,
strategies and actions aimed at the elimination of all forms of
discrimination against women.
Comoros
H.E. Mr. Mohamed El-Amine Souef, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Congo
H.E. Mr. Basile Ikouebe, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
[SCR 1325] defined a complete
programme for women, peace and security, by emphasizing, inter
alia, the need for full and equal participation of women in peacebuilding
processes and activities
Croatia
H.E. Mrs. Mirjana Mladineo, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
Croatia believes that it is the
international but also a national responsibility to stop marginalization
of women in peacekeeping and peacebuilding. We are putting a lot
of effort in increasing the involvement of women in peacekeeping
operations, especially arnong military and police observers. Through
national mechanisms, like the recently adopted National Policy
for the Promotion of Gender Equality for the period of 2006-2010,
special measures for achieving integration of gender perspective
in national security policy as well as the promotion of application
of the SCR 1325 are being incorporated.
Today, we are calling for the
greater representation of women in the process of negotiat ng
peace, post-war reconstruction and reconciliation for women. We
must continue to encourage the main bodies of the UN, particularly
the funds and programs to strengthen the participation of women
in their work and to streamline gender issues.
Only by enhancing the role of
women in a peacebuilding and especially in a decision making process
we can achieve the fulfillment of principles contained in SCR
1325 for the benefit of all people living around the globe.
Denmark
H.E. Mrs. Ellen Margrethe Loj, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
Denmark is proud to have co-sponsored
a workshop last month in Dubai at which the UN Mine Action Team
worked with UN and national staff from Yemen, Jordan, Afghanistan,
Iraq and the occupied Palestinian territory to ensure that their
mine action programmes promote gender equality. Women and girls
should be included at all levels - from mine risk education to
mine clearance, and Denmark intends to follow up on the conference
to further promote gender equality in mine action. In another
effort to implement resolution 1325 Denmark requested International
Crises Group to examine the role of women in peace building in
three of Africa's most deadly conflicts. The report - "Beyond
Victimhood: Women's Peace building; in Sudan, Cone and Uganda''
– finds that involving women in peace budding processes
brings a more inclusive view on security andthereby enhances the
likelihood that agreements will hold. The discouraging findings
by International Crisis Group are that women are marginalised
in peace processes, grossly underrepresented in the security sector
as a whole and largely excluded from the formal economy. And SCR
1325? The resolution was by and large unknown amongst the actors
at country and grass root level.
Egypt
H.E. Mr. Majed Abdelaziz, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
El Salvador|
H.E. Mrs Carmen Maria Gallardo Hernadez, Ambassador and Permanent
Representative
No reference to theme
Fiji
Mr Filimone Kau, Charge d'affaires of Fiji to the United Nations
Women in Fiji have been active
in peacekeeping efforts even though we continue to be confronted
with the challenges and limitations, including the lack of capacity
and appropriate policy to ensure their full integration and empowerment.
It is in this regard that we seek more assistance and partnership
opportunities including sharing of experiences to enhance our
women participation in peacekeeping and peacebuilding.
Gender training conducted by
the Fiji Women's Crisis Centre for some Fiji Police and Military
units particularly those involved in peace keeping activities
is an example of effective partnership at the local level.
Finland (EU)
H.E. Minister Ms. Elisabeth Rehn
Women's equal participation and
full involvement is a prerequisite for achieving, maintaining
and promoting sustainable peace. The importance of SCR 1325 cannot
thus be emphasised enough.
The resolution demands protection
of women and girls in conflicts, but also calls for giving women
a voice and an active peacebuilding role during and in the aftermaths
of armed conflict.
The EU strongly believes in gender
equality as a prerequisite for peace and security. Within the
framework of the European Consensus on Development, adopted in
December 2005, the ED supports conflict prevention and peacebuilding
by addressing the root-causes of violent conflict, including gender
inequality.
France
H.E. Mr. Jean-Marc de la Sabliere, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
The establishment of the Peacebuilding
Commission should also enable us to move forward on the participation
of women in post-conflict phases and reconstruction. The need
to integrate sex-specific approaches and to involve representatives
of civil society, especially women's organizations, was specifically
mentioned in the mandate of the PBC. The first country-meetings
recently organized on Sierra Leone and Burundi confirmed the validity
of this reference and the centrality of the role of women in building
sustainable peace.
Germany
H.E. Mr. von Ungern-Sternberg, Deputy Permanent Representative
Peace construction and consolidation
require patience and determination. And most of all: It requires
the involvement of both men and women. By far too often, however,
the full potential of women is not used or they are even completely
left out of the process. And by far too often, women who actively
work for peace and reconstruction are discriminated against or
even become targets of violence.
We have witnessed further progress
towards the implementation of Resolution 1325 in the past year.
We have seen promising examples of women’s involvement in
the consolidation of peace in Liberia, Sierra Leone and Burundi.
We welcome the inclusion of a strong reference to Resolution 1325
as a cross-cutting issue in the Resolution on Burundi that was
adopted this week. In Afghanistan, under the Bonn-Agreement and
the new constitution, women are taking an active part in the consolidation
of peace and in the building of a new political reality, be it
in Parliament or in the Government, at national and provincial
levels.
Ghana
H.E. Mr. Nana Effah-Apenteng, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
El Salvador
H.E. Mrs Carmen Maria Gallardo Hernadez, Ambassador and Permanent
Representative
There is no doubt that the resolution
is the basis for a cross-cutting examination of gender issues
in the area of post-conflict peacebuilding. In that way it opens
up the possibility for the active participation of women in peace
negotiations and national reconciliation processes.
Greece
Mrs Alexandra Papadopoulou, Minister Counselor, Deputy Permanent
Representative Peacebuilding is a broad notion, encompassing,
inter alia, the restoration of the rule of law, the demobilization,
disarmament and reintegration process and security-sector reform.
Yesterday’s Arria-style meeting gave us the opportunity
to stress the importance of taking into account the gender perspective
in all those areas. But most of all, the process of peace building
cannot but be tightly linked to sustainable development and the
creation of a viable economic environment.
I will conclude my intervention
by making a reference to the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize recipient.
Mr. Muhammad Yunus of Bangladesh, with his famous microfinance
banking system, has chosen to give loans primarily to women living
in poor areas for the establishment of small enterprises. That
initiative has created a remarkably solid basis for economic development,
demonstrating the crucial role that women can play in this respect
and thus in consolidating peace.
Guatemala
H.E. Mr. Jorge Skinner Klee, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
We wish to express our gratitude
to all of the system’s agencies and funds that have worked
to ensure women’s participation at all stages of peacekeeping
and peacebuilding processes — particularly the United Nations
Development Fund for Women, which has been promoting the participation
of Guatemalan women in electoral processes and in leadership training
in communities and local governments since 1997.
Not to involve women and girls
at all levels of capacity-building in the area of peacebuilding
would be to make them the most vulnerable group, shown no mercy
by the enemies of peaceful coexistence.
Guinea
H.E Mr. Alpha Ibrahima Sow, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
In order to achieve the objectives
by the deadlines, we should fully support the implementation of
the principles highlighted in the background text provided by
the President of the Security Council aiming, in particular, at
achieving the participation of women on an equal footing in the
maintenance and building of peace and security.
With the support of the Government,
a United Nations country team and, above all, Ms. Rachel Mayanja,
Special Adviser of the Secretary General on Gender Issues and
Advancement of Women, the First Lady of Guinea wishes also to
pay tribute to the active contribution of the Guinean office for
the Network of African Women Ministers and Parliamentarians (NAWMP)
supported by the Manu River Union Women’s Association in
conducting negotiations which foster the restoration of peace,
stability and reconciliation in the sub-region.
A review of resolution 1325 (2000)
from the standpoint of peacebuilding represents a source of hope
for the women of Guinea, of Africa and of the entire world. This
hope must not be in vain. It could be fulfilled if the entire
international community shouldered its responsibilities, demonstrated
the necessary political will and acted in conformity with its
commitments.
Iceland
H.E. Mr. Hjalmar W. Hamesson, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
The report of the Secretary General
indicates that some progress has been made in the implementation
of the System Wide Action Plan, in particular, in areas such as
peacekeeping and peacemaking. Nonetheless, much more remains to
be done at the UN level, both at Headquarters and in the field.
We would like to underline the important role of the Peacebuilding
Commission and the Peacebuilding Support Office in the promotion
of the full implementation of resolution 1325. We fully share
the opinion of the Secretary General that gender equality should
be recognized as a core issue in the maintenance of peace and
security.
Indonesia
H.E. Mrs. Adiyatwidi Adiwoso Asmady, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent
Representative
No reference to theme
Israel
Ms. Meirav Eilon Shahar, Counsellor
No reference to theme
Japan
H.E. Mr. Kenzo Oshima, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
Women's participation has enormous
significance in ensuring the consolidation of peace and community
reconstruction.
Kenya
H.E. Mr. Z.D. Muburi Muita, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
In this august room, a month
or so later, my predecessor spoke passionately during a similar
session such as this one, emphasizing the centrality of mainstreaming
gender and in particular, including women at all levels in addressing
security issues and especially during post - conflict peace building.
Women's perceptions and concerns
must form an integral part of any peace process. Traditional stereotypes
that have consistently kept women away from negotiating tables
must be broken, It is therefore gratifying to note that the United
Nations has over the years, and more particularly since the adoption
of resolution 1325, made significant progress in mainstreaming
gender perspectives into peace initiatives.
Lesotho (SADC)
H.E. Mr. Lebohang F. Maema KC, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
We are encouraged by the fact
that the study showed that considerable progress has been made
in implementing resolution 1325(2000) by all stakeholders. This
indeed demonstrates the importance we all attach to this resolution,
which if implemented effectively can save millions of lives. The
resolution recognises the impact of armed conflicts on women and
stresses the importance of women's equal participation in resolving
conflicts and therefore promoting peace and security. We are therefore
convinced that with more women taking an active role in peace
building processes, a lot can be achieved. We therefore appreciate
measures taken by the Department of Peace- Keeping Operations(DPK)
to hold regular meetings with women representatives in countries
affected by conflict. However, it is a hard fact that in most
countries there are very few female representatives as women are
generally not involve in politics and do not hold decision-making
positions. It is in this regard that SADC stresses the importance
of giving priority to the empowerment of women, thus enabling
their participation in politics and decision making.
Liechtenstein
H.E. Mr. Christian Wenaweser, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
Despite past efforts of many
stakeholders, there seems to be a continued and widespread lack
of awareness of the fact that women need to be enabled to play
an active role in connection with armed conflicts and peace building.
In this connection, we also support
the emphasis placed on closer collaboration with mechanisms for
gender equality and advancement of women within countries, including
women members of Parliament and civil society
Liechtenstein has been advocating,
for many years already, the appointment of women as special representatives
and envoys of the Secretary General because we are convinced that
such appointments can play a catalytic role for the stronger involvement
of women in peace processes, especially when those reach more
formal stages. They might also have a positive impact on the level
of reporting on gender-related issues to the Security Council,
which is still unsatisfactory. Therefore, we consider such appointments
as crucial for a better implementation of SCR 1325.
Progress on the representation
of women in those leadership positions has, however, again been
disappointing since the last time the Council met on this topic.
We are, of course, aware of the need to provide the Secretary
General with the names of potential, well-qualified candidates
for such posts and invite all interested States and NGOs to join
forces in gathering the necessary information. There is no doubt
in our mind that there are enough suitable candidates for such
functions. We just have to seriously look for them.
Myanmar
H.E. Mr. U Kyaw Tint Swe, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
The Netherlands
H.E. Mr. Frank Majoor, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
If we are really serious about
promoting peace and security we cannot afford to miss a single
opportunity to promote women's rights and increase women's participation
in peace processes. And it is encouraging that, at this point
in time, women's rights organisations are speaking out. They are
calling on their leaders and international community to fully
include them in the peace processes.
Since 1997 the Government of
the Netherlands has also provided support for efforts to the effective
involvement of Sudanese women in the peace processes in Sudan.
Another challenge is the coordination
between the security, humanitarian and development pillars on
the ground which is often insufficient, resulting in overlap in
work. Moreover gender is still not always considered an integrated
and essential crosscutting issue in peacekeeping and peacebuilding
efforts. These gaps need to be addressed by DPKO, the PBC, UN
Country Teams and by us all in the near future to guarantee a
successful implementation. Overall, availability of adequate financial
and human resources are key to more sustainable progress and success
in the future.
Norway
Mr. Johan L. Lovald, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
It is also important to plan
for the longer term. It is critical to keep the long-term objectives
in mind in order to ensure a smooth transition from peacekeeping
to peacebuilding, in which the UN country team should play a key
role. Strategic partnerships should be developed at an early stage
with the country team, and the (peacekeeping) missions should
draw on the comparative advantage of agencies like UNIFEM and
UNDP.
The UN country team should strive
for a fully integrated gender plan that reflects the objectives
of resolution 1325, including clear accountability, division of
labour and specific actions to be taken. The strategic plan should
include an outline for how to cooperate and coordinate activities
with the national government. This is essential to the sustainability
of gender efforts.
We know that wars and conflict
affect women, men, girls and boys, in different ways. We also
know that women's fall participation in peace processes and peacebuilding
is necessary for a lasting peace. This fact must guide the planning
and implementation of both the UN's - and our own - efforts for
peace and development.
Papua New Guinea (Pacific Islands
Forum)
H.E. Mr Robert G. Aisia, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Peru
H.E. Mr Oswaldo Rivero, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
There is much to be done, and
the task must be addressed jointly by States, by the United Nations
system and civil society, in particular by women’s groups.
In that respect, we would like to underline the fact that an Arria-formula
meeting, convened by the delegation of the United Kingdom, was
held yesterday, on Wednesday, 25 October, on the role of women
in peacebuilding. That meeting helped us to obtain firsthand knowledge
of the work done by women’s organizations in the field,
with a view to ensuring that resolution 1325 (2000) is fully known
and implemented
Qatar
Dr. Mutlaq Majid al-Qahtani, Minister Plenipotentiary
The State of Qatar will continue
to play a major role in promoting the role of women at the national,
regional and international levels and in all areas of life. We
strongly believe in a number of principles aimed at promoting
the role of women, including ensuring women’s participation
at every stage of efforts to maintain and promote international
peace and security; protecting women and girls from human rights
abuses and violations of international humanitarian law during
armed conflict; strict enforcement of measures against the perpetrators
of sexual violence and attacks against women and girls in areas
of armed conflict — regardless of whether those perpetrators
are parties to the conflict or others who work in United Nations
peacekeeping missions — and putting an end to impunity for
such crimes; and promoting best practices and effective laws to
guarantee effective participation by women in all aspects of peacekeeping
and security missions. Recognizing and embracing those major principles
require that we view this issue with transparency and objectivity
and that we avoid double standards and political opportunism.
Failure to uphold them will not only weaken the role of women
in the maintenance of peace and security, but will also hamper
our quest for lasting peace and reconciliation.
Russia
Ilya Rogachev, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative
Security Council resolution 1325
(2000) continues to be relevant as a guideline in defining the
role of women in conflict prevention, conflict resolution and
post-conflict reconstruction. We must apply the provisions of
the resolution in the process of creating equal opportunities
for the women to participate actively in peacebuilding and security,
as well as to play a growing role in decision-making. The issue
is being mainstreamed in the work of the General Assembly, the
Economic and Social Council and the Commission on the Status of
Women and should occupy an appropriate place in the work of the
Peacebuilding Commission and the work of the Human Rights Council.
It is certain that women already
have an important role and are capable of playing an even greater
role in all issues relating to conflict prevention and conflict
resolution. In that context, we support the development of a strategy
to ensure women’s fully fledged participation in peace talks
and in the electoral processes.
Slovakia
H.E. Mr. Peter Burian, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
Women’s empowerment can
play a critical role in peace-building processes. We welcome the
progress achieved in implementation of various aspects of Security
Council Resolution 1325, which provides an important political
and legal framework for bringing gender perspectives to the center
of attention in all UN peacemaking, peace-building, rehabilitation
and peace consolidation efforts. Thanks to the activities connected
with the implementation of Resolution 1325, there is a growing
awareness and understanding that lasting and sustainable solutions
cannot be achieved without participation of women and the inclusion
of gender perspectives in the peace processes.
We also note with regret that
women are still very often ignored or excluded from formal peace
processes and peace negotiations. In our view, a more coherent
and systematic approach of the international community is needed
to address the requirements and obligations of Resolution 1325
in order to improve the situation of women and increase their
participation in peace-building activities.
Slovenia (Human Security Network)
H.E. Mr. Roman Kirn, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
Both the Security Council and
the newly established Peacebuilding Commission needs to pay special
and full attention to integrating women equally in formal peace
processes. If we wish to aim at long-term and durable peace, all
parts of the society need to partake in it, including women.
South Africa
H.E. Mr. Dumasani S. Kumalo, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
With the adoption of Security
Council Resolution 1325, we have come to realise the important
contribution by women in the maintenance of peace and security.
We have also come to accept that women are not simply victims
of wars and conflicts, but important role-players in the resolution
of conflicts. Following the passage of Resolution 1325 we have
seen a growing demand for the inclusion of women in peace negotiations.
Women are gradually finding a place in the implementation of peace
agreements, post conflict rehabilitation, reconstruction and disarmament.
What remains is still the lack of the much needed political will
to allow women to fully participate and contribute in the resolution
of conflicts.
Promoting the role of women in
the consolidation of peace, underscores the four main principles
of Resolution 1325. First, there is a need for the fall and unrestricted
participation of women in all decision-making and peace processes;
second, there is the importance of integrating gender perspectives
and training into peacekeeping operations; third, there is the
obligation to protect women and girls from human rights abuses,
including gender-based violence in conflict zones; and fourth,
the need to mainstream gender into UN reporting systems and programme
implementation mechanims.
In recent years we have seen
women coming together by themselves in the Great Lakes Region
and in the Mano River Basin to decide on their own future and
to organize their participation in the national reconstruction
of their countries. The South African Women in Dialogue initiative
has organised consultations with women from several African countries
emerging from conflict to forge strategies that seek to make certain
that women's concerns are taken into account in peacebuilding
efforts.
Spain
H.E. Mrs. Silvia Escobar, Special Mission Ambassador Special Mission
for Human Rights
The question of the role of women
in peacebuilding is of great relevance, because in the transitional
processes that follow conflict, the foundation of a democratic
and equal society can be created — provided that the needs
and priorities of women and men are considered throughout the
process. Such efforts must be based on respect for human rights
and must reflect an awareness of the differences and inequalities
between the sexes, which can be exacerbated at the end of a conflict
if women and girls are prevented from fully participating in and
benefiting from reconstruction processes. In that regard, a number
of elements are required. There must be equal participation by
men and women in efforts to maintain peace and security. A gender
perspective must be integrated into all aspects of peacebuilding,
thereby guaranteeing that all the needs of women, girls, men and
boys are placed on an equal footing in a systematic manner. In
that regard, a number of elements are required. There must be
equal participation by men and women in efforts to maintain peace
and security. A gender perspective must be integrated into all
aspects of peacebuilding, thereby guaranteeing that all the needs
of women, girls, men and boys are placed on an equal footing in
a systematic manner. Women and girls must be protected from sexual
abuse and gender-based violence, and impunity must be ended. This
means including women, who are usually relegated to a secondary
role, in decision-making processes leading to the adoption of
necessary institutional, judicial, political, educational and
economic changes.
Spain attaches great importance
to the effective implementation of resolution 1325 (2000). In
2004, the then Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sweden and the Minister
for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Spain jointly signed an
article entitled “Women, peace and security”, which,
inter alia, deplored the lack of participation of women in peace
processes.
Sudan
H.E. Mr. Abdalmahmood Abdalhaleen Mohamad, Ambassador and Permanent
Representative
The Comprehensive Peace Agreement
and the Darfur Peace Agreement both included provisions to guarantee
the role and active participation in peacebuilding and the implementation
of its articles.
Sweden
H.E. Mr. Anders Lidén, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Tanzania
H.E. Mr. Tuvako N. Manongi, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative
While there is a wide consensus
on the positive contributions that women bring in peace building
and peace consolidation, their effective participation cannot
happen without aid for the magnitude of the challenge we face
remains great. In the name of tradition, culture or even security,
women have continued to be excluded from decision-making over
conflicts. Too often they have been set aside while men brokered
peace agreements. Thankfully, more and more women are challenging
this viewpoint and are increasingly demanding involvement as stakeholders
in their communities. Their potential as peace builders must be
harnessed.
Concerted efforts are required
to support and strengthen the capacities of women and their networks
to participate in all processes of peace building and peace consolidation.
In this regard, we commend the efforts that have been undertaken
by various stakeholders, in particular the United Nations System,
the
civil society and various national
political leaders, in promoting the participation of women in
peace building and peace consolidation processes.
Uganda
H.E. Mr Francis K. Butagira, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
Staffing positions in relevant
institutions dealing with peacekeeping and peacebuilding should
also incorporate gender perspectives. This is not necessarily
to say that there should be affirmative action. But I believe
there is a pool of well qualified women to be considered on their
merit.
United Kingdom
H.E. Sir Emyr Jones Parry, Ambassador and Permanent representative
The United Kingdom is committed
to ensuring that women are provided with the opportunity to participate
fully in all stages of the peace process, from early ceasefire
negotiations to reforms of the security sector and restoration
of the Rule of Law. Women's full participation in peace consolidation
is vital to sustained and long-term stability;
United States
Molly Phee, Deputy Political Counselor
As pointed out by the first four
speakers this morning, the United Nations must act - and, indeed,
in many instances has acted - to acknowledge and strengthen the
role of women in peace processes and in post-conflict peacebuilding.
Women can, and should, be involved in both making peace and maintaining
security following conflict, not only in the sense of patrolling
streets, but also as builders of consensus and leaders of reconciliation
in post-conflict settings.
One last example involves Nepal.
Women's groups in that country were not only active in pushing
for peace, but were instrumental in securing a guarantee of equal
rights for women and men in the country's new constitution. That
achievement is especially significant given the degree to which
women were involved in the conflict, both as combatants and as
victims.
Experience increasingly demonstrates
that incorporating the efforts of women peacebuilders builds more
effective programmes. Their inclusion will advance their rights
and lay the groundwork for a more sustainable peace. Therefore,
women have not only the right, but the responsibility to be an
integral part of all stages of the peace process and the consolidation
of peace.
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to top
conflict
prevention & early warning
Argentina
H.E. Mr. Cesar Mayoral, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Australia
H.E. Mr Robert Hill, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
SCR 1325 reaffirms the role of
women in preventing and resolving conflicts and encourages making
women central to negotiating peace agreements, peacekeeping operations
and reconstructing societies stricken by war.
Bangladesh
H.E. Dr. Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
The role of women in prevention
and resolution of conflicts has been an essential element for
the making and sustaining peace and security.
We need to ensure adequate representation
of women at all levels of decision making in conflict prevention.
This must include early warning mechanisms, both during hostilities
and through post-conflict reconstruction and rehabilitation.
Canada
H.E. Mr. John McNee, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
China
H.E. Mr. Liu Zhenmin, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative
It is imperative to heed women's
special needs and concerns at the different stages of conflict
prevention, peace-keeping and peacebuilding. Their potential and
role should also be fully recognized and tapped. Women should
enjoy full decision-making power in the peace process as they
can provide firm support and a solid foundation for the hard-won
peace.
Colombia
H.E. Mrs Maria Angela Holguin, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Comoros
H.E. Mr. Mohamed El-Amine Souef, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Congo
H.E. Mr. Basile Ikouebe, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Croatia
H.E. Mrs. Mirjana Mladineo, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Denmark
H.E. Mrs. Ellen Margrethe Loj, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Egypt
H.E. Mr. Majed Abdelaziz, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
EL Salvador
H.E. Mrs Carmen Maria Gallardo Hernadez, Ambassador and Permanent
Representative
No reference to theme
Fiji
Mr Filimone Kau, Charge d'affaires of Fiji to the United Nations
No reference to theme
Finland (EU)
H.E. Minister Ms. Elisabeth Rehn
The EU strongly believes in gender
equality as a prerequisite for peace and security. Within the
framework of the European Consensus on Development, adopted in
December 2005, the ED supports conflict prevention and peacebuilding
by addressing the root-causes of violent conflict, including gender
inequality.
France
H.E. Mr. Jean-Marc de la Sabliere, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Germany
H.E. Mr. von Ungern-Sternberg, Deputy Permanent Representative
It is important to ensure that
the special experiences and needs of women are taken into consideration
when designing and developing new instruments, policies and projects
in the area of conflict prevention, conflict management and peace
building.
Ghana
H.E. Mr. Nana Effah-Apenteng, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Greece
Mrs Alexandra Papadopoulou, Minister Counselor, Deputy Permanent
Representative
Strengthening the rule of law
and, within that, protecting the full enjoyment of human rights
by women and advancing gender equality are significant aspects
of conflict prevention. The incorporation of the gender dimension
in early warning activities and the actual use of that factor,
both as an indicator contributing to a more comprehensive assessment
of emerging conflicts and as an incentive to the timely planning
of gender-sensitive programmes, are certainly very positive steps.
We therefore very much welcome the participation of women in early
warning and conflict prevention work.
Guatemala
H.E. Mr. Jorge Skinner Klee, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Guinea
H.E Mr. Alpha Ibrahima Sow, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Iceland
H.E. Mr. Hjalmar W. Hamesson, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
Resolution 1325 has put gender
issues on the agenda of the Council. The resolution has proven
to be an important tool to promote the direct involvement of women
in conflict prevention, peacekeeping and peacebuilding.
Indonesia
H.E. Mrs. Adiyatwidi Adiwoso Asmady, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent
Representative
No reference to theme
Israel
Ms. Meirav Eilon Shahar, Counsellor
No reference to theme
Japan
H.E. Mr. Kenzo Oshima, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Kenya
H.E. Mr. Z.D. Muburi Muita, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Lesotho (SADC)
H.E. Mr. Lebohang F. Maema KC, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
The pivotal role that women play
when trained in the area of early warning in order to prevent
conflict is well understood by our Governments. Indeed, it has
been noted that women are among the first to send alarm about
looming conflicts in their areas. Unfortunately, their voices
continue to be ignored.
Liechtenstein
H.E. Mr. Christian Wenaweser, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Myanmar
H.E. Mr. U Kyaw Tint Swe, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
The Netherlands
H.E. Mr. Frank Majoor, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Norway
Mr. Johan L. Lovald, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Papua New Guinea (Pacific Islands
Forum)
H.E. Mr Robert G. Aisia, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
This progress illustrates what
is possible when local and regional initiatives are supported
by the international donor community. This was no more apparent
than the Women Peace and Security program established by UNIFEM
in Melanesia -which established Women, Peace and Security Committees
in Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and Fiji. In addition,
UNIFEM piloted a valuable Gendered Early Warning Indicator pilot
project in the Solomon Islands in 2005.
In 2004, this [Triennial Conference
on Pacific women] gathering of Pacific Ministers, government officials
and civil society representatives, recognized Peace and Security
as a critical and emerging issue and added it to the Pacific Platform
of Action. They called on governments to: […..] recognize
and enhance women's inclusion in early warning systems, conflict
prevention;…utilize the provisions under the Biketawa Declaration
to proactively monitor national security situations with the view
to averting potential conflicts and resolving possible conflicts
by peaceful means;
Peru
H.E. Mr Oswaldo Rivero, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Qatar
Dr. Mutlaq Majid al-Qahtani, Minister Plenipotentiary
No reference to theme
Russia
Ilya Rogachev, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative
Security Council resolution 1325
(2000) continues to be relevant as a guideline in defining the
role of women in conflict prevention, conflict resolution and
post-conflict reconstruction. We must apply the provisions of
the resolution in the process of creating equal opportunities
for the women to participate actively in peacebuilding and security,
as well as to play a growing role in decision-making. The issue
is being mainstreamed in the work of the General Assembly, the
Economic and Social Council and the Commission on the Status of
Women and should occupy an appropriate place in the work of the
Peacebuilding Commission and the work of the Human Rights Council.
It is certain that women already
have an important role and are capable of playing an even greater
role in all issues relating to conflict prevention and conflict
resolution. In that context, we support the development of a strategy
to ensure women’s fully fledged participation in peace talks
and in the electoral processes.
Slovakia
H.E. Mr. Peter Burian, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Slovenia (Human Security Network)
H.E. Mr. Roman Kirn, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
It is vital to operationalize
the 1325 Resolution in the work of all UN-bodies, particularly
also in the UN- peace-keeping operations. UNIFEM in particular
has done a lot in recent years to support the mainstreaming gender
perspective in conflict prevention, resolution and reconstruction,
including by supporting grassroots women organizations.
South Africa
H.E. Mr. Dumasani S. Kumalo, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Spain
H.E. Mrs. Silvia Escobar, Special Mission Ambassador Special Mission
for Human Rights
No reference to theme
Sudan
H.E. Mr. Abdalmahmood Abdalhaleen Mohamad, Ambassador and Permanent
Representative
No reference to theme
Sweden
H.E. Mr. Anders Lidén, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Tanzania
H.E. Mr. Tuvako N. Manongi, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Uganda
H.E. Mr Francis K. Butagira, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
United Kingdom
H.E. Sir Emyr Jones Parry, Ambassador and Permanent representative
No reference to theme
United States
Molly Phee, Deputy Political Counselor
No reference to theme
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PEACE
NEGOTIATIONS & AGREEMENTS
Argentina
H.E. Mr. Cesar Mayoral, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
From a human rights perspective,
Argentina attaches high priority to the situation of women in
armed conflict and the participation of women in peace processes
and in peace consolidation. Resolution 1325 is the legal framework
that allows this participation to become effective both at the
national and at the international level.
In conclusion, we believe that
the commitment to the situation of women in armed conflict and
to gender equality must materialize in concrete actions in order
to amplify the voices of women in peace processes, reform the
institutions so that they take into consideration the needs of
women and establish mechanisms of accountability both at the national
and at the international level regarding the implementation of
Resolution 1325.
Australia
H.E. Mr Robert Hill, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
SCR 1325 reaffirms the role of
women in preventing and resolving conflicts and encourages making
women central to negotiating peace agreements, peacekeeping operations
and reconstructing societies stricken by war.
Bangladesh
H.E. Dr. Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
The role of women in prevention
and resolution of conflicts has been an essential element for
the making and sustaining peace and security.
The true measure of women's participation
in peace negotiation is not through numbers, but through power
in decision making. It is undeniable that in consolidation of
peace the roles of women remain vital.
Canada
H.E. Mr. John McNee, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
In Burundi, we have witnessed
the positive impact of women's participation in peace negotiations.
In order for peace consolidation
to effectively integrate gender equality and women's rights, we
need to focus both on increased direct participation of women
in peace processes as well as on institutional reform that is
gender-aware.
China
H.E. Mr. Liu Zhenmin, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative
It is imperative to heed women's
special needs and concerns at the different stages of conflict
prevention, peace-keeping and peacebuilding. Their potential and
role should also be fully recognized and tapped. Women should
enjoy full decision-making power in the peace process as they
can provide firm support and a solid foundation for the hard-won
peace.
Colombia
H.E. Mrs Maria Angela Holguin, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Comoros
H.E. Mr. Mohamed El-Amine Souef, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Congo
H.E. Mr. Basile Ikouebe, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
Women are, in most cases, excluded
from peace negotiations, in spite of the basic role they play
in the prevention of conflicts and in peacebuilding within their
communities. The number of women taking part in official negotiations
remains limited. Parties to the conflict are, by and large, men,
and it is men who, as warriors, sit down around the negotiation
table in order to deal with matters that are considered by some
to be too serious to be entrusted to peacemakers.
Having been the theatre of successive
civil wars from 1993 to 2002, my country fully understands the
great price paid by women and young girls in conflict situations.
Accordingly, my Government recognizes the need for the full participation
of women at every stage of the peace process, in particular in
the negotiation and implementation of agreements
Croatia
H.E. Mrs. Mirjana Mladineo, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
Today, we are calling for the
greater representation of women in the process of negotiating
peace, post-war reconstruction and reconciliation for women.
Denmark
H.E. Mrs. Ellen Margrethe Loj, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Egypt
H.E. Mr. Majed Abdelaziz, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
El Salvador
H.E. Mrs Carmen Maria Gallardo Hernadez, Ambassador and Permanent
Representative
On the basis of our experience,
we can say that the participation of women in peace negotiations
is complementary to peacebuilding efforts. It promotes reconciliation
and the incorporation of women fighters and insurgents of the
opposition movements into legitimate institutions.
Fiji
Mr Filimone Kau, Charge d'affaires of Fiji to the United Nations
No reference to theme
Finland (EU)
H.E. Minister Ms. Elisabeth Rehn
Women remain rnarginalised in
peacebuilding. This marginalisation starts during ceasefire negotiations
and continues throughout the peace process. The European Union
believes that it is critical to move from marginalisation to action.
Women at both grassroots and national levels provide important
insights and analysis to the consolidation of peace and we urge
the Security Council to increasingly invite and utilise these
voices. We encourage increased attention to facilitating women's
equal and active participation from the first stages of negotiating
peace through reconstruction and political participation. Without
women in decision-making there will be no sustainable peace.
France
H.E. Mr. Jean-Marc de la Sabliere, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Germany
H.E. Mr. von Ungern-Sternberg, Deputy Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Ghana
H.E. Mr. Nana Effah-Apenteng, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Greece
Mrs Alexandra Papadopoulou, Minister Counselor, Deputy Permanent
Representative
No reference to theme
Guatemala
H.E. Mr. Jorge Skinner Klee, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
Guatemala suffered more than
three decades of armed conflict, and during the negotiations on
Guatemala’s peace agreements signed in 1996, an entire section
specifically referring to the importance of the role of women
in maintaining peace, in particular indigenous women, was incorporated.
There is also an entire section on the importance of women’s
participation in strengthening the impact of civil society. In
that connection, we share Ms. McAskie’s vision of the catalytic
role and comparative advantages that the Peacebuilding Commission
can have in that respect in situations on the ground.
Guinea
H.E Mr. Alpha Ibrahima Sow, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Iceland
H.E. Mr. Hjalmar W. Hamesson, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
We must ensure that the provisions
of resolution 1325 are realized and that women can fully and equally
participate in all levels of decision-making with regard to conflict
prevention and peace- building. Women must be fall agents in the
shaping and rebuilding of their communities in the aftermath of
war.
Indonesia
H.E. Mrs. Adiyatwidi Adiwoso Asmady, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent
Representative
No reference to theme
Israel
Ms. Meirav Eilon Shahar, Counsellor
The mainstreaming of gender into
all policies and programmes at the international and national
level plays a crucial factor in the prevention of sexual discrimination,
exploitation, and abuse. And if women are ever to truly see their
needs recognized and interests represented in peace accords, they
must have access to peace negotiations from the earliest possible
stages. To that extent, Israel has been working, through government
and non-governmental channels, to increase awareness and amplify
the voice of women in peace negotiations and conflict resolution.
Israel is determined for women
to play an increasingly active role in peace negations, and committed
to advancing the role of women in all aspects of society. Israel
is hopeful that an enhanced role for women in peace negotiations
will build lasting bridges of understanding with our neighbors,
and allow for the reopening of a dialogue to rejuvenate the prospects
for peace.
Japan
H.E. Mr. Kenzo Oshima, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Kenya
H.E. Mr. Z.D. Muburi Muita, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Lesotho (SADC)
H.E. Mr. Lebohang F. Maema KC, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
The pivotal role that women play
when trained in the area of early warning in order to prevent
conflict is well understood by our Governments. Indeed, it has
been noted that women are among the first to send alarm about
looming conflicts in their areas. Unfortunately, their voices
continue to be ignored. In this regard, we concur with the observation
in the Secretary General's report that concrete measures are necessary
to strengthen capacity-building in the field to ensure women's
full participation at all stages of the peace processes especially
in the negotiation and implementation of peace agreements.
Liechtenstein
H.E. Mr. Christian Wenaweser, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Myanmar
H.E. Mr. U Kyaw Tint Swe, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
The Netherlands
H.E. Mr. Frank Majoor, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Norway
Mr. Johan L. Lovald, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Papua New Guinea (Pacific Islands
Forum)
H.E. Mr Robert G. Aisia, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
In 2004, this gathering of Pacific
Ministers, government officials and civil society representatives,
recognized Peace and Security as a critical and emerging issue
and added it to the Pacific Platform of Action. They called on
governments to: […..] recognize and enhance women's inclusion
in peace processes and negotiations
Peru
H.E. Mr Oswaldo Rivero, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Qatar
Dr. Mutlaq Majid al-Qahtani, Minister Plenipotentiary
No reference to theme
Russia
Ilya Rogachev, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative
Security Council resolution 1325
(2000) continues to be relevant as a guideline in defining the
role of women in conflict prevention, conflict resolution and
post-conflict reconstruction. We must apply the provisions of
the resolution in the process of creating equal opportunities
for the women to participate actively in peacebuilding and security,
as well as to play a growing role in decision-making. The issue
is being mainstreamed in the work of the General Assembly, the
Economic and Social Council and the Commission on the Status of
Women and should occupy an appropriate place in the work of the
Peacebuilding Commission and the work of the Human Rights Council.
It is certain that women already
have an important role and are capable of playing an even greater
role in all issues relating to conflict prevention and conflict
resolution. In that context, we support the development of a strategy
to ensure women’s fully fledged participation in peace talks
and in the electoral processes.
Slovakia
H.E. Mr. Peter Burian, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
We also note with regret that
women are still very often ignored or excluded from formal peace
processes and peace negotiations.
Slovenia (Human Security Network)
H.E. Mr. Roman Kirn, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
Both the Security Council and
the newly established Peacebuilding Commission needs to pay special
and full attention to integrating women equally in formal peace
processes. If we wish to aim at long-term and durable peace, all
parts of the society need to partake in it, including women. Looking
at different cases of negotiations in the past, it is striking
to note the next to total lack of women peace envoys to date.
It is clear that on all levels - local, national and indeed at
the highest international ones - women should be included in conflict
resolution efforts in accordance with the 1325 Resolution.
South Africa
H.E. Mr. Dumasani S. Kumalo, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
With the adoption of Security
Council Resolution 1325, we have come to realise the important
contribution by women in the maintenance of peace and security.
We have also come to accept that women are not simply victims
of wars and conflicts, but important role-players in the resolution
of conflicts. Following the passage of Resolution 1325 we have
seen a growing demand for the inclusion of women in peace negotiations.
Women are gradually finding a place in the implementation of peace
agreements, post conflict rehabilitation, reconstruction and disarmament.
What remains is still the lack of the much needed political will
to allow women to fully participate and contribute in the resolution
of conflicts.
Promoting the role of women in
the consolidation of peace, underscores the four main principles
of Resolution 1325. First, there is a need for the fall and unrestricted
participation of women in all decision-making and peace processes;
second, there is the importance of integrating gender perspectives
and training into peacekeeping operations; third, there is the
obligation to protect women and girls from human rights abuses,
including gender-based violence in conflict zones; and fourth,
the need to mainstream gender into UN reporting systems and programme
implementation mechanisms.
Spain
H.E. Mrs. Silvia Escobar, Special Mission Ambassador Special Mission
for Human Rights
Sudan
H.E. Mr. Abdalmahmood Abdalhaleen Mohamad, Ambassador and Permanent
Representative
No reference to theme
Tanzania
H.E. Mr. Tuvako N. Manongi, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Uganda
H.E. Mr Francis K. Butagira, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
There is also the question of
involving women as far as possible in peace negotiations. Usually
it is up to the parties to the conflict to compose their delegations.
We can only say it is well advisable to include women in their
delegations. Certainly if they are not direct participants, they
can be observers. My delegation calls on the Security Council
and secretary general to take steps to realize this proposal.
United Kingdom
H.E. Sir Emyr Jones Parry, Ambassador and Permanent representative
No reference to theme
United States
Molly Phee, Deputy Political Counselor
Allow me to cite some examples
in which women's involvement in the peace process has had an immediate
and lasting impact. One example comes from Sierra Leone, where
the Government included the participation of four women in a team
of nine in peace talks that led to the development of the Lomé
Peace Agreement of 1999. In Liberia, a group called the Mano River
Women's Peace Network won the United Nations Prize in the Field
of Human Rights in 2003, due to its involvement and positive influence
in both conflict resolution and peacebuilding in that country.
The group, compromised of women from Liberia and neighbouring
Guinea and Sierra Leone, directly participated in the formal peace
talks.
In the past, women's traditional
roles in society have often been used as an excuse for their exclusion
from decision-making and leadership, but the unique roles and
perspectives of women are essential to both formal and informal
peace processes, especially in addressing entrenched cultures
of violence. Because women frequently outnumber men after a conflict
- such as in the case of the southern Sudan today, where the ratio
of women to men is two to one - they will have a particularly
critical role to play in the implementation of any peace agreement
and in building the institutions that will maintain the peace.
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civil
society
Argentina
H.E. Mr. Cesar Mayoral, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Australia
H.E. Mr Robert Hill, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Bangladesh
H.E. Dr. Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
It is our belief that integrating
gender perspective across the UN system will keep in view geographical,
cultural and ethnic factors. Adequate resources should also be
mobilized to this effect. Active involvement of the civil society
and NGOs is a sine qua non.
Canada
H.E. Mr. John McNee, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
China
H.E. Mr. Liu Zhenmin, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Colombia
H.E. Mrs Maria Angela Holguin, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
My country actively participated
in the first training course on gender, conflict and peacebuilding
in the Andean region, which was held in Lima in October 2005,
under the auspices of Women Waging Peace. One month later, a similar
event was held in Bogotá, with the wide participation of
the public sector and representatives of civil society and academia
in order to promote resolution 1325 (2000) and highlight elements
that can incorporate the gender perspective into peacebuilding
programmes, policies and actions.
Comoros
H.E. Mr. Mohamed El-Amine Souef, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Congo
H.E. Mr. Basile Ikouebe, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
Aware of what is at stake with
regard to women’s participation in the decision-making process,
the Government, working through the department responsible for
promoting the status of women and in cooperation with its development
partners and civil society, has developed strategies to encourage
the participation of Congolese women in the forthcoming elections.
Croatia
H.E. Mrs. Mirjana Mladineo, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Denmark
H.E. Mrs. Ellen Margrethe Loj, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Egypt
H.E. Mr. Majed Abdelaziz, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
El Salvador
H.E. Mrs Carmen Maria Gallardo Hernadez, Ambassador and Permanent
Representative
Special tribute should be paid
to civil society both for its contribution to the advancement
of the status of women and for its recognition of the role that
women can play in promoting peace, which has been acknowledged
ever since the First World Conference on Women in 1975.
Fiji
Mr Filimone Kau, Charge d'affaires of Fiji to the United Nations
Women in Fiji have been active
in peacekeeping efforts even though we continue to be confronted
with the challenges and limitations, including the lack of capacity
and appropriate policy to ensure their full integration and empowerment.
It is in this regard that we seek more assistance and partnership
opportunities including sharing of experiences to enhance our
women participation in peacekeeping and peacebuilding. Gender
training conducted by the Fiji Women's Crisis Centre for some
Fiji Police and Military units particularly those involved in
peace keeping activities is an example of effective partnership
at the local level.
In Fiji's Reviewed Women's Plan
of Action (1999-2008) we have clearly acknowledged our commitment
to SCR 1325 to further progress gender equality through various
empowerment strategies for women in Fiji. Whilst we have yet to
fully realize the potential of women in this area, the political
will prevalent, and the efforts of our government and civil society,
coupled with the support of UN agencies and the international
community should yield some positive results in respect to the
implementation of SCR 1325 in Fiji and the Pacific region.
Finland (EU)
H.E. Minister Ms. Elisabeth Rehn
We also believe that gender should
be an integral part of Security Sector Reform programmes, including
activities to reform defence forces and the police. We need to
improve the participation of women at all levels of the security
forces as well as the dialogue between the security sector and
civil society.
France
H.E. Mr. Jean-Marc de la Sabliere, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Germany
H.E. Mr. von Ungern-Sternberg, Deputy Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Ghana
H.E. Mr. Nana Effah-Apenteng, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Greece
Mrs Alexandra Papadopoulou, Minister Counselor, Deputy Permanent
Representative
No reference to theme
Guatemala
H.E. Mr. Jorge Skinner Klee, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
Guatemala suffered more than
three decades of armed conflict, and during the negotiations on
Guatemala’s peace agreements signed in 1996, an entire section
specifically referring to the importance of the role of women
in maintaining peace, in particular indigenous women, was incorporated.
There is also an entire section on the importance of women’s
participation in strengthening the impact of civil society.
[…] Moreover, we should
strengthen capacity for full implementation of resolution 1325
(2000), improve coordination of the system, particularly on the
ground, and provide incentives for the participation of all interested
sectors of civil society
Guinea
H.E Mr. Alpha Ibrahima Sow, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
Beyond the implementation of
these principles, special attention should be given to certain
key aspects of the follow-up to resolution 1325 (2000) as they
pertain to the complex challenges of peacebuilding. Therefore,
it would be desirable, first, at the national level, to support
women’s initiatives and actions in order to promote peace
and reconciliation; to ensure a smooth transition towards sustainable
development; to guide the Government and all national stakeholders,
especially non-governmental organizations and civil society, so
that resolution 1325 (2000) can spur action and remain at the
heart of the peace and development process.
[…] Secondly, at the regional
and international level, we must take effective steps to compel
all those concerned to conclude partnerships and alliances with
the authorities, groups and women’s networks at the local
and national levels, with a view to the coordinated and complete
implementation of resolution 1325 (2000).
Iceland
H.E. Mr. Hjalmar W. Hamesson, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Indonesia
H.E. Mrs. Adiyatwidi Adiwoso Asmady, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent
Representative
No reference to theme
Israel
Ms. Meirav Eilon Shahar, Counsellor
Israel believes women must play
an equal role in all aspects of state and civil society. We have
no doubt that the advancement and progress of women will translate
into nothing less than the advancement and progress for all.
Japan
H.E. Mr. Kenzo Oshima, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
As part of its efforts to promote
human security in practice, Japan helped set up the United Nations
Trust Fund for Human Security (UNTFFIS) in 1999. During the past
few years, the Trust Fund has supported over 160 projects in more
than 90 countries and regions, and many of them have contributed
towards the empowerment and protection of women and children.
With that at end in mind, many of the projects approved under
the Trust Fund are implemented in partnership with NGOs and civil
society groups active in this field
Kenya
H.E. Mr. Z.D. Muburi Muita, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Lesotho (SADC)
H.E. Mr. Lebohang F. Maema KC, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Liechtenstein
H.E. Mr. Christian Wenaweser, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
We also support the emphasis
placed on closer collaboration with mechanisms for gender equality
and advancement of women within countries, including women members
of Parliament and civil society. In fact, most United Nations
entities which have contributed to the evaluation signaled effective
partnership with civil society as a challenge, especially in the
field, and pointed out that the networking with women's organizations
was inadequate.
Myanmar
H.E. Mr. U Kyaw Tint Swe, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
The Netherlands
H.E. Mr. Frank Majoor, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
If we are really serious about
promoting peace and security we cannot afford to miss a single
opportunity to promote women's rights and increase women's participation
in peace processes. And it is encouraging that, at this point
in time, women's rights organisations are speaking out. They are
calling on their leaders and international community to fully
include them in the peace processes.
[…] the Netherlands supports
both national and international nongovernmental organisations
(such as International Women's Tribune Centre and IFOR) and UN
agencies in advancing the involvement of women in maintaining
and promoting sustainable peace.
Norway
Mr. Johan L. Lovald, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Papua New Guinea (Pacific Islands
Forum)
H.E. Mr Robert G. Aisia, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
This year the Forum Secretariat
convened a Pacific Regional Workshop on Gender, Conflict, Peace
and Security which emphasized the need to strengthen partnerships
between key government portfolios and their respective Ministries,
civil society, regional and international organizations, and the
donor community.
AusAID is funding a program in
the Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea and Fiji to train key civil
and governmental representatives on the importance of UNSCR 1325,
and translate UNSCR 1325 into local languages. And we have a number
of vibrant women's NGOs in our region working on promoting UNSCR
1325 implementation including femLINK Pacific and the Ecumenical
Centre for Research and Advocacy in Fiji, and Vois Bitong Mere
in the Solomon Islands.
Peru
H.E. Mr Oswaldo Rivero, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
There is much to be done, and
the task must be addressed jointly by States, by the United Nations
system and civil society, in particular by women’s groups.
In that respect, we would like to underline the fact that an Arria-formula
meeting, convened by the delegation of the United Kingdom, was
held yesterday, on Wednesday, 25 October, on the role of women
in peacebuilding. That meeting helped us to obtain firsthand knowledge
of the work done by women’s organizations in the field,
with a view to ensuring that resolution 1325 (2000) is fully known
and implemented.
Qatar
Dr. Mutlaq Majid al-Qahtani, Minister Plenipotentiary
No reference to theme
Russia
Ilya Rogachev, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Slovakia
H.E. Mr. Peter Burian, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
We also welcome the integration
of gender-perspective focus into the projects of various UN agencies
and NGOs active in the conflict and post-conflict situations.
We highly value projects promoting dialogue between communities
and active participation of women in ongoing decision making processes.
In this regard, let me highlight here, for example, the UNIFEM
Programme on "Advancing Women’s Rights for Democratic
Governance and Peace in South East Europe” prepared by the
UNIFEM Regional Office in Bratislava under the scope of which
the agency, inter alia, facilitates dialogue between various women
organizations in Kosovo.
Slovenia (Human Security Network)
H.E. Mr. Roman Kirn, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
In many post-war situations women's
organization will be among the first to organize themselves as
civil society voices, yet among the last to be able to access
the formal decision-making structures and processes. This trend
needs to be reversed and while the recognition of contribution
of women networks and grassroots peace-building initiatives to
peace consolidation processes is growing, we still need to integrate
them much better.
It is vital to operationalize
the 1325 Resolution in the work of all UN-bodies, particularly
also in the UN- peace-keeping operations. UNIFEM in particular
has done a lot in recent years to support the mainstreaming gender
perspective in conflict prevention, resolution and reconstruction,
including by supporting grassroots women organizations.
South Africa
H.E. Mr. Dumasani S. Kumalo, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
In recent years we have seen
women coming together by themselves in the Great Lakes Region
and in the Mano River Basin to decide on their own future and
to organize their participation in the national reconstruction
of their countries. The South African Women in Dialogue initiative
has organised consultations with women from several African countries
emerging from conflict to forge strategies that seek to make certain
that women's concerns are taken into account in peacebuilding
efforts.
The full achievement of the goals
contained in Resolution 1325 can only become areality, through
better information, coordination and cooperation as well asstrengthened
commitment and accountability at all levels of the United Nations
system. Enhanced cooperation with regional organisations as well
as civil society and women's national machineries is also essential.
My delegation therefore notes with appreciation, the progress
made in the, implementation of the UN System-Wide Action Plan
proposed last years.
Spain
H.E. Mrs. Silvia Escobar, Special Mission Ambassador Special Mission
for Human Rights
No reference to theme
Sweden
H.E. Mr. Anders Lidén, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
Sudan
H.E. Mr. Abdalmahmood Abdalhaleen Mohamad, Ambassador and Permanent
Representative
Women are represented at all
levels of decision-making, from the presidency of the Republic,
to the Cabinet, the parliament and, finally, various institutions
and ministries, in addition to their strong presence in civil
society organizations
Tanzania
H.E. Mr. Tuvako N. Manongi, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative
Concerted efforts are required
to support and strengthen the capacities of women and their networks
to participate in all processes of peace building and peace consolidation.
In this regard, we commend the efforts that have been undertaken
by various stakeholders, in particular the United Nations System,
the civil society and various national political leaders, in promoting
the participation of women in peace building and peace consolidation
processes.
Uganda
H.E. Mr Francis K. Butagira, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
No reference to theme
United Kingdom
H.E. Sir Emyr Jones Parry, Ambassador and Permanent representative
No reference to theme
United States
Molly Phee, Deputy Political Counselor
Allow me to cite some examples
in which women's involvement in the peace process has had an immediate
and lasting impact. One example comes from Sierra Leone, where
the Government included the participation of four women in a team
of nine in peace talks that led to the development of the Lomé
Peace Agreement of 1999. In Liberia, a group called the Mano River
Women's Peace Network won the United Nations Prize in the Field
of Human Rights in 2003, due to its involvement and positive influence
in both conflict resolution and peacebuilding in that country.
The group, compromised of women from Liberia and neighbouring
Guinea and Sierra Leone, directly participated in the formal peace
talks.
Another African example comes
from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where horrendous numbers
of women and girls were raped, abducted and physically abused
as part of that conflict. Women's groups there played a critical
role in shining a light on those abhorrent acts and in combating
the stigma faced by the victims. Today, those groups continue
an active campaign to mobilize the Government into holding accountable
those responsible for crimes against women. I would also note
that women are playing a vital and important role in the Democratic
Republic of the Congo's democratic transition.
One last example involves Nepal.
Women's groups in that country were not only active in pushing
for peace, but were instrumental in securing a guarantee of equal
rights for women and men in the country's new constitution. That
achievement is especially significant given the degree to which
women were involved in the conflict, both as combatants and as
victims.
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