Justice, Rule of Law and Security Sector Reform

Ever since the overthrow of the Taliban, there have been important gains in strengthening human rights and the rule of law. Nevertheless, a lot remains to be done, and no backsliding can be allowed. Afghan citizens, in particular women, still face insecurity in public spaces and at home, as well as a lack of access to an effective and fair justice system and legal representation.

With regard to the human rights situation, the European Union thanks the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) for publishing the report on the treatment of conflict-related detainees in Afghan custody in January 2013, and we welcome the constructive response of the Government of Afghanistan to that report.

However, elections alone do not make a vibrant, inclusive and democratic society; the Government of Afghanistan must also deliver on its rule of law and human rights commitments. UNAMA's most recent report on the elimination of violence against women noted that there remained a disturbing under-reporting of incidents of violence against women, and a lack of serious investigation into credible allegations.

I am especially concerned about the 20 per cent increase in civilian casualties among women and girls in 2012. UNAMA's monitoring of civilian casualties prompted two statements from the Taliban that perhaps indicate a willingness to engage. I encourage a meaningful dialogue aimed at reducing the intolerable, continuing death toll and at protecting civilians.

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

Particular attention should be given to the fact that, as a result of developments over the past decade, the mandates of new, multidimensional missions can include—as in the case of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti –references to mission support for national Governments and local human rights groups in their efforts to promote and protect human rights, in particular those of women and children.

Thirdly, there is the interface between security and development and the role women can play in that respect. As we embark upon a process to develop a set of sustainable development goals for post-2015, we believe that gender equality and the empowerment of women should be at the centre of all our solutions and commitments. That would also help further the agenda on women and peace and security.

Notwithstanding the importance of the implementation of the provisions of important legal instruments and agreements on peace and security, Trinidad and Tobago is also of the view that the prosecution of those accused of committing crimes against women and girls during armed conflict is a critical factor in achieving lasting peace.

It is therefore important that national legislation incorporate international criminal law, which provides for such acts and punishes their perpetrators. The Council must ensure that impunity is not the rule, but the exception. My country welcomes the fact that measures adopted by the United Nations to protect women and girls include guidelines that have been drawn up by the heads of military and police units in peacekeeping operations.

We hope that Ms.