To that end, Botswana reiterates its strong condemnation of all violations committed against women and girls, including sexual and gender-based violence in armed conflict and post-conflict situations.

The effective participation of women's civil society organizations in conflict prevention and resolution is essential for the sustainability of peace processes.

Since the adoption of resolution 1325 (2000) in 2000, significant progress has been made in its implementation, as demonstrated by the notable efforts made by the United Nations system, Member States, civil society and other actors. In that regard, a number of activities covering a broad range of areas have been undertaken over the past decade.

My delegation is convinced that peace is inextricably linked to the issue of equality between women and men, and, as such, we fully share the view that gender equality should be recognized as a core issue in the maintenance of peace and security.

Let me begin by thanking and congratulating the Indian presidency of the Council for the initiative to hold this open debate today on women, peace and security, with a focus on the role of women civil society organizations in contributing to the prevention and resolution of armed conflict and peacebuilding.

In this regard, we also believe that if women are to play a key role in conflict-prevention and peacebuilding processes, the obstacles and challenges that limit their involvement need to be addressed, including their underrepresentation in formal peace and security processes.

I wish to conclude by reiterating the call made in General Assembly resolution 66/130 regarding the need to enhance the role of women in decision-making with regard to conflict prevention and resolution, in accordance with resolution 1325 (2000).

By taking part in today's deliberations, Botswana reaffirms the great importance and its recognition of the contribution and role of women in the prevention and resolution of conflicts and renews its commitment to address issues related to women and gender equality at the national level.

Botswana's support for United States-led resolution 66/130, aimed at encouraging the greater political participation of women and their expanded role in decision- making and peacekeeping, and which was adopted by the General Assembly's Third Committee in 2011, is a practical demonstration of our strong commitment in that regard.

Botswana welcomes the Security Council's continued focus on issues related to women, peace and security, particularly its call for the enhanced participation, representation and involvement of women in the prevention and resolution of armed conflicts and in peacebuilding, as well as a stronger commitment to address challenges to the engagement of women at all levels.