For example, a recent project has been implemented by the Czech NGO ADRA — which deals with the capacity-building of civil society in the protection of women's rights — in Georgia. Its aim is to achieve the highest standard of protection in the context of providing services to victims of domestic violence.

As part of its human rights promotion activities, the Czech Republic takes into consideration gender aspects and the protection of women in post-conflict situations, as well as in countries in transition, including by supporting projects of Czech and local non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

Women ought to be placed at the heart of ongoing political, social and economic developments. Even though women are widely recognized as effective agents of peace, the number of women participating in decision- making in the area of peace and security remains unacceptably low. Ensuring their equal participation in decision-making is therefore essential for achieving sustainable peace and stability.

We welcome the report and recommendations of the Secretary-General on women and peace and security (S/2013/525), as well as resolution 2122 (2013), adopted today by the Council.

We believe that greater coordination and synergy among international partners would further improve the implementation of resolution 1325 (2000) on the ground.

We also welcome the adoption of the resolution 2106 (2013), on strengthening of the prevention and prosecution of conflict-related sexual violence, and support the work of the Special Representative of the Secretary General on Sexual Violence in Conflict.

In September, Croatia, as Chair of the Peacebuilding Commission, organized a high-level ministerial event with UN Women on women's economic empowerment for peacebuilding. The main rationale behind this event was to renew commitment and to sharpen the global focus on the role of women as agents of positive change and transformation in countries emerging from conflicts.

In our view, ensuring gender equality is one of the basic principles with regard to respect for human rights. Transitions can present opportunities to strengthen women's rights, leadership and empowerment. It is crucial to put in place gender-responsive transitional justice measures as a key element in the processes of restoring the rule of law and governance systems in any conflict-affected situation.

In conclusion, Croatia will continue to give its full support to all aspects of the women, peace and security agenda.

Female members of the Croatian Armed Forces involved in international assignments actively work as commanders, military observers and staff officers. We are particularly proud to state that, in coordination with NATO, in December we will deploy our first female general as gender adviser to the Commander of the International Security Assistance Force in Kabul.