Participation

In conclusion, Uganda welcomes the adoption of resolution 1889 (2009), as it highlights this deficit and calls for a response to the needs of women and girls in post-conflict situations for sustainable peace and security.

Experience has also taught us that a simple increase in the number of women in talks is not sufficient and that in-depth consultations are still required to ensure that nothing is left out with regard to the legitimate concerns of women.

That is why Turkey has given its strong support to projects aimed at ensuring increased participation by women in all areas of social and political life. In other words, we believe that the empowerment of women in its entirety should be at the core of all our efforts. In that respect, let me cite our approach in Afghanistan.

Likewise, equally strong measures are needed to increase the participation of women in post-conflict recovery efforts and peace processes, since that would increase the effectiveness of such efforts. Indeed, we should not forget that women in post-conflict countries are not merely victims of war, but also agents of change towards modernization and transformation, making immense contributions to sustainable peace and prosperity.

To that end, we believe it important for women in local communities to be allowed to participate in finding solutions for the reconstruction and rebuilding of their countries. The importance of equal representation and participation of women in formal peace processes and at negotiating tables cannot be overemphasized.

There is an urgent need to advocate more strongly for the equal participation and full involvement of women in all efforts for the maintenance and promotion of peace and security.

The African Union and subregional organizations offer several advantages in the pursuit of effective conflict prevention and resolution.

South Africa continues to support the work of the United Nations and of the African Union in promoting the equal participation and full involvement of women in all efforts for the maintenance and promotion of peace and security, as well as in protecting women and girls against sexual violence.

In the context of peace and security, the Protocol stipulates that the States parties shall endeavour to put in place measures to ensure that women have equal representation and participation in key decision- making positions in conflict resolution and peacebuilding processes by 2015, in accordance with resolution 1325 (2000).

In conclusion, my delegation will continue to support the work of the United Nations and of the African Union in promoting the equal participation and full involvement of women in all efforts for the maintenance and promotion of peace and security, as well as in protecting women and girls in post-conflict situations and their aftermath.