We must redouble our efforts to combat sexual violence in conflict. In that regard, the Republic of Korea supports the strong leadership of the Security Council and welcomes the package of measures that the Secretary-General suggests to accelerate the full implementation of resolutions 1820 (2008) and 1888 (2009). Among others, my delegation would like to highlight the following three points.

Thirdly, we need to increase the participation of women in peace processes and to strengthen their capacity. The full participation of women, particularly local women, in such efforts is essential to creating inclusive and sustainable peace. Research conducted

Secondly, preventing and responding to sexual violence require a more coherent and coordinated approach within the United Nations system. For example, a more integrated strategic framework between peacekeeping missions and United Nations country teams should be established to formulate mission objectives targeted at women and peace and security, as well as to evaluate their implementation.

On its part, the Republic of Korea has been active in implementing resolutions 1325 (2000) and 1820 (2008) by mainstreaming a gender-sensitive approach in all its policies and activities and by increasing women's participation at all levels. In that regard, we recently deployed a gender adviser as a member of an Afghanistan provincial reconstruction team.

First, it is essential to grasp the reality of sexual violence committed in armed conflict through reliable, timely and objective information, as well as to ensure that, in turn, perpetrators are identified and brought to justice.

Despite that progress, the impact of resolutions 1820 (2008) and 1888 (2009) has yet to be fully realized on the ground. Women and children continue to suffer disproportionately in areas of armed conflict. The use of sexual violence and brutality as weapons of

At the outset, allow me to thank you, Madame President, for convening an open debate on this important issue. My appreciation also goes to Ms. Margot Wallström, Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict, for her comprehensive and informative presentation of the Secretary-General's report on this issue (S/2010/604).

As the Secretary-General's report states, over the past year, there has been much progress at the policy level on the implementation of resolutions 1820 (2008) and 1888 (2009). In particular, we would like to commend the measures that it outlines to improve the collection of information on sexual violence that would lead to better monitoring, deeper analysis and more systematic reporting.

"The second aspect is the Council's action. Indeed, a Council that is better informed is also in a better position to take action. With sufficient information, the Council will be able to take, in a timely manner, further steps to influence parties to conflict to comply with international law and to make specific commitments regarding the prevention of sexual violence or the investigation of alleged abuses.

"With the appointment of Special Representative Wallström and, subsequently, of the Team of Experts on the Rule of Law, with the presence of United Nations agencies and peacekeeping missions in the field, the Council should have the tools necessary to obtain reliable and accurate information on sexual violence. This is an issue of particular importance to helping the Council discharge its responsibilities."