Statement of Ireland

Those are only four areas in which the women and peace and security agenda has catalysed change and can continue to do so. There are many more, including disarmament, international criminal justice and the prevention and countering of violent extremism. It would be remiss not to focus lastly and briefly on those of us charged with living the changes that we have made.
First, with regard to the United Nations system — more work is needed to advance the Global Study’s recommendation that a gender perspective should be mainstreamed throughout the United Nations response to conflict emergencies. The recent adoption by the Peacebuilding Commission of a gender strategy is an example of a best practice that we can all learn from.
Secondly, with regard to regional and subregional organizations, in May, Ireland was pleased to host the inaugural workshop on the regional acceleration of resolution 1325 (2000). It brought together regional organizations working on peacekeeping. Such work must form part of a larger effort to support and learn from women and peace and security initiatives at the regional level.
Thirdly, with regard to Member States, 63 national action plans mean 63 opportunities to identify lessons learned, which could serve to spark new initiatives. We look forward to participating actively in the national women and peace and security focal points network launched by Spain in September.
Finally and crucially, with regard to civil society organizations, those on the front lines of the implementation of the women and peace and security agenda are often those most in need of support. Ireland has contributed almost $500,000 to the Global Acceleration Instrument for Women and Peace and Security and Humanitarian Action since its launch last February, and we encourage other donors to support this civil society organization-driven fund. When we speak at next year’s debate, we hope to be able to point to even greater progress within the frameworks of peace and security, all with the women and peace and security agenda at the core.