Statement of Sweden, October 2015

Firstly, indisputable evidence, as highlighted by the Global Study, has shown that women's participation lead to more sustainable peace. Yet, women's experience, knowledge and

expertise are too often excluded in peace processes.

Change needs to start at home. My government has committed to strengthen human rights of women, improve women's access to resources and increase women's representation - in

times of war, and in times of peace.

We will make women's participation In peace and security a top priority in our revised National Action Plan. In order to make sure that the new plan duly reflects the needs and experiences of women and girls in conflict-affected societies, we have held consultations in five conflict and post-conflict countries. All women - from Afghanistan to eastern DRC - have conveyed the same message: "No sustainable peace can be achieved without us".

We will hear their plea, and commit to continue to support and fund women's organizations in conflict and post-conflict countries. We have increased this support threefold over the last five years, but we will strive to do even more.

Sweden is also developing anetwork of women peace mediators, as well as partaking in the creation of aNordic women's mediation network, which within two years will have acapacity to assist peace efforts wherever needed in the world.