The United Nations police chief today called on Member States to ensure that peacekeeping personnel found guilty of sexual exploitation and abuse are punished and that everything possible is done to prevent such crimes from being committed in the first place.

As the Security Council last week voted unanimously to extend the mandate of the UN's political mission in Libya, its members expressed their deep concern about sexual violence in the country. The United Nations' mandate includes supporting the government in promoting democracy, restoring public security, and explicitly mentions the monitoring and protection of human rights, particularly those of women and vulnerable groups, which I welcome.

A RECENT case involving MDC-T MP Evelyn Masaiti's failed attempt to marry her Cameroonian partner yet again illustrates the raw deal women in general and women politicians in particular receive in the media.

India has made remarkable progress in taking ahead women's political participation at the local level, an official from the UN body on gender empowerment said here on Saturday.

Three Pakistani policemen serving with the UN in Haiti will be sentenced to prison for sexual exploitation and abuse, the UN peacekeeping mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) reports.

The decision follows the outcome of a military justice procedure conducted this month by Pakistani authorities in Haiti's capital, Port-au-Prince.

United Nations Special Rapporteur on Violence against women Ms Rashida Manjoo has reported Solomon Islands have the high incidence of violence against women.

PESHAWAR, March 17: Speakers at a seminar here on Saturday urged women to play their role in restoration of peace by educating the new generation and keeping watch on the routine activities of their children to save them from falling prey to the menace of terrorism.

As Afghan-U.S. relations continue to deteriorate, it's hard to imagine that the two nations can find political common ground. But the language of business is a common one. Stronger business (coupled with innovation) is a powerful driver for peace.

Around the world, political power still comes with a price for women who seek it.

But some face tougher challenges than others. Take Sri Lankan politician Salma Hamza, for example. Twice, opposition members have lobbed fuel bombs at her vehicle.