The women and peace and security agenda has been a catalyst for greater civil...

The women and peace and security agenda has been a catalyst for greater civil society engagement with the Council. This has enriched our work, giving us access to new perspectives and information. In all societies, there are real obstacles to women's political participation. Even in countries that have championed women's rights for decades, insidious barriers to true equality persist. Today we gather to consider how to advance further towards women's full engagement in conflict resolution and mediation.