Following the invitation in the concept note (S/2013/447) prepared by the presidency, I should like to reiterate that Colombia deems essential measures aimed at prevention, protection and the guarantee of non-repetition for victims in situations of armed conflict. My Government believes that the rights of victims must be guaranteed and reflected in assistance, attention and reparation measures.

The full and unimpeded access of humanitarian assistance continues to be a sine qua non for the relief of affected populations, including in particular the most vulnerable groups, such as women and children. In that regard, we unequivocally condemn sexual and gender-based violence, including the use of sexual violence as a military tactic.

We also understand the importance of preventive diplomacy, mediation and good offices, and the establishment, maintenance and consolidation of peace to the maintenance of international peace and security; the key importance of avoiding the escalation of conflicts and of settling disputes; and the important role played by women in the prevention and resolution of conflicts and in building peace.

First, ending impunity for violations of human rights and international humanitarian law is the first step towards establishing the rule of law in the post- conflict peacebuilding process. In particular, violence and crimes against women and children should not go unpunished.

While welcoming the Council's continued dialogue and consultations with regional organizations, as well as joint actions on the ground, we would encourage an enhanced focus on issues of justice and accountability; tackling impunity for crimes against civilian populations, including sexual violence in conflict; and the effective implementation of Security Council resolutions on women and peace and security, and children and armed conflict.

The third area is partnerships on thematic, human rights and humanitarian issues. The Council has recognized the key role regional and subregional organizations play in affirming the role of women in conflict prevention, peacebuilding, peacekeeping and humanitarian response; ensuring the protection of children affected by armed conflict; and ensuring that the protection of civilians is central to peacekeeping efforts.

Two significant regional meetings took place recently, with positive outcomes that I would like to share. The first was the regional consultation on women, peace, security and development in the Great Lakes Region, which I organized, in collaboration with Femmes Africa Solidarité and the ICGLR, from 9 to 11 July in Bujumbura, Burundi.

Members will recall that I made it clear from the beginning that, as Special Envoy, I intended to implement a top-down and bottom-up comprehensive approach, whereby I will be working, on the one hand, with political leaders and, on the other, with the people of the region to encourage peace, security and development.

I will soon come back to the Council with further elements for the implementation of the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework, which will be built on three critical pillars: political and security, humanitarian and development.

I will continue to encourage women-led initiatives in the region through the establishment of a communications platform, through which experts and donors could provide technical advice and funds to women's projects in support of the “framework of hope”.