Participation

As a country in which women represent 51 per cent of the population, the Islamic Republic of the Gambia welcomes this debate on women and peace and security. Over the years, we have come to recognize the importance of women in peacebuilding and the peaceful resolution of conflicts, yet we have not been able to give women the requisite power or even status to play a role in the achievement of peace and security.

Resolution 2242 (2015) highlights the need for States to ensure that women participate more actively in political processes, peace negotiations and conflict prevention and resolution mechanisms. States are responsible for ensuring that women’s organizations are included in discussions on international peace and security, not only to hear their opinions but also and in particular to allow them to make a contribution to the discussions.

As a major troop- and police-contributing country, Ethiopia has been working towards increasing the participation of women. We are particularly proud that Ethiopia is one of the leading contributors of female peacekeepers. We will continue to enhance the participation of our women in the military, police and civilian components.

Adopted on 31 October 2000 — the first Council resolution to emphasize the fight against the impact of war — resolution 1325 (2000) called for promoting women’s contributions to conflict resolution and to negotiations with a view to the maintenance of peace and security. It was in 1966, 50 years ago now, that for the first time a woman was elevated to the rank of minister in my country.

We firmly believe that girls and women are not just survivors and victims of war; they are also leaders and peace builders. Conflict through a woman’s eyes brings an invaluable perspective, one which has often been ignored in our history. That is one of the reasons why the Czech Republic negotiated a resolution on equal political participation on four occasions in Geneva.

Croatia’s continued engagement in the area of women and peace and security rests on our firm belief that the full realization of women’s rights is an indispensable basis for safeguarding basic human rights and achieving lasting peace and security.

As underlined in the global study, women’s participation in decision-making in the sphere of peace and security worldwide remains unacceptably low, while the extent of sexual violence against women and girls in conflict situations continues to be devastating.

We recognize that civil society, especially women’s organizations, have spurred that rebuilding and the future adherence to the agenda for women’s rights. That is why they are now strategic State partners in the search for that shared goal.

Furthermore, Chile is committed to increasing women’s participation in various United Nations missions. We are convinced of their contribution and undeniable role in establishing effective ties in restoring the confidence of women and girls in conflict and post-conflict situations.