Implementation

In this context, since 2010 Luxembourg has supported an important programme set up by the United Nations Department of Peacekeeping Operations.

I would like to thank you warmly, Sir, for having rescheduled the open debate originally scheduled by the Guatemalan presidency, and for giving us this opportunity to take stock of progress made and the challenges remaining in the advancement of women in the framework of resolution 1325 (2000) and subsequent resolutions.

I also thank today's speakers for their enlightening briefings. While I fully align myself with the statement made by observer of the European Union, I would like to underline a few aspects that are of particular importance to us. The latest report of the Secretary-General (S/2012/732) shows the headway we have made over the past two years.

However, the overall result remains mixed. We can only share the Secretary-General's disappointment at the weak representation of women in peace talks, at the structural problems that limit women's participation in political life, and at the resurgence of violence against women.

My delegation would like to stress the importance of further efforts in raising awareness of, and ensuring consistent adherence to, the implementation of necessary measures in the codes of conduct of States' armed forces. Sharing best practices and encouraging the integration of measures for the protection of women in armed conflicts into operational documents should be a part of our efforts.

Lithuania adopted its national action plan for the implementation of resolution 1325 (2000) in December 2011. One of the first things we did in drafting the plan was to turn to women's non-governmental organizations for their input. Their insights and practical experience helped make our plan more focused, measurable and results-oriented.

In that ongoing endeavour, civil society organizations have an important role to play in monitoring implementation, holding international and national leaders to account, providing ideas and feedback on what works and how it works best and giving a voice to the most vulnerable groups.

As a member of the Group of Friends of Security Council resolution 1325 (2000) and the Group of Friends of Mediation, Lithuania concurs with the Secretary-General that the gender dimension of mediation must be clearly and consistently articulated. Women must be part of the process, as mediators and peace negotiators, as that makes it possible to take into account their needs for political, economic and social empowerment.

Women's civil society organizations are an important asset in this regard. We must ensure that their unique grass-roots perspective is taken into account as we rethink how gender expertise is structured and deployed in the United Nations system.

The topic of today's debate is of particular importance. The sustainable political, social and economic development of a country is possible only with a strong civil society that is involved in all stages of decision-making, including in conflict prevention and resolution and peacebuilding.