The role of women in conflict prevention and post conflict peacebuilding is of great importance. Namibia therefore fully supports the inclusion of women in security systems such as armed forces, police and peacekeeping operations and special political missions in support of various United Nations resolutions that recognize that important role.

Namibia is proud to be among the troop contributing countries that have successfully complied with resolution 1888 (2009), which urges Member States to deploy greater numbers of female military and police personnel in United Nations peacekeeping missions. As we speak, a group of police women from Namibia is on its way to Darfur.

In conclusion, the legacy of conflict-related violence is endured long after peace agreements have been concluded. Women continue to be targets of violence as insecurity continues in the absence of effective justice systems that facilitate large-scale impunity. Therefore, the involvement of women in peace processes and the establishment of the rule of law are the foundation for sustainable and durable peace.

I wish to congratulate you, Sir, on your country's assumption of the presidency of the Council for the month of October. Furthermore, I wish to thank you for organizing this very important debate affording the wider United Nations membership an opportunity to contribute to the very important discussion on women, the rule of law and transitional justice.

From the outset, Namibia has recognized the important role of women in peacebuilding, as enunciated in resolution 1325 (2000), of October 2000, which my delegation, together with many others, successfully negotiated during our presidency of the Security Council.

At the international level, we urge States to fully comply with international humanitarian law, international human rights law and the International Criminal Court mechanisms, which need to be strengthened.

While the responsibility to put an end to the tragic consequences of armed conflict for women and children lies with States, coordinated and sustained action among the various national and United Nations actors involved in the implementation of resolution 1325 (2000) is necessary to strengthen existing initiatives.

The signing of peace agreements and ceasefire agreements and the implementation of national action plans and programmes for the protection of women in conflict-affected countries have made it possible to identify, in a more appropriate way, the ways and means likely to promote women's rights and to strengthen their participation in efforts to prevent and resolve conflicts and in post-conflict reconstruction.

The establishment of genuine peace requires the establishment of inclusive and durable political, economic and social structures. Within that framework, local women's entities are a driving force in empowering women and strengthening good governance. My delegation welcomes the work carried out in the framework of the United Nations system to strengthen women's capacities and involvement in mediation and peacebuilding processes.

My delegation welcomes the report of the Secretary- General on women, peace and security (S/2013/525) and the adoption of resolution 2122 (2013) on the issue.