Participation

In our delegation's view, the time has come to consider peacekeeping operations from a broad- based, holistic angle that from the outset includes the traditional components of peacekeeping operations, but that is combined with a strategic mandate that makes it possible to involve, insofar as the situation on the ground allows, the components of peacebuilding and sustainable development, including the gender perspective and the empowerment of w

Finally, let me conclude by seconding the call that we have heard so many times today for the adequate participation of women at all stages of peacebuilding efforts and for their full inclusion in decision-making processes.

We recognize the role played by women in preventing and resolving conflicts, and appreciate the inclusion of the gender dimension in mandates. Further work is necessary in that regard to ensure women's full participation in peacekeeping, peacebuilding and security issues. In that context, we also draw attention to the potential role of regional entities, given their successful past experiences in Africa.

Two areas that we believe are central to peacekeeping and peacebuilding are the protection of civilians and women, peace and security.

Armenia joins previous speakers in reiterating the need for the equal and effective participation of women at all stages of the peace process and their involvement in conflict prevention and resolution and the transition from conflict to peace. Female peacekeepers act as role models in the local environment, improving, inter alia, access and support for local women and contributing to empowering women in the community.

Argentina welcomes the fact that the draft resolution reaffirms the commitment to address the particular impact of armed conflicts on women and children, underlining what is contained in resolution 1325 (2000) and all subsequent resolutions.

The work of resolution 1325 (2000) is a national responsibility. Less than year ago, President Obama issued the first-ever United States national action plan on women, peace and security. Based on wide-ranging consultations with American civil society and with other Governments, our action plan lays out how the United States will help empower half the world's population as equal partners in preventing conflict and building peace.

The participation of women in peace and political processes is central to long-term peace and stability. We see that more than half of all peace agreements fail within five years. While the reasons for failure are complex and unique to each conflict, there is one common thread, historically: a lack of women's participation.

It is encouraging, moreover, to see that more women parliamentarians are elected to office during transitional periods where there is United Nations assistance. Libya's landmark elections on 7 July had record levels of women's participation, with over six hundred women candidates running for the national congress.

Women have a unique and powerful role to play in peacebuilding. But the lack of security for women and girls continues to be a major factor inhibiting their participation in decision-making in conflict and post conflict settings. Women must participate as voters and candidates in post-conflict elections; they deserve to have the security to do so safely.