Implementation

The honest commitment of Governments to women's civil society organizations is essential, particularly in the context of armed conflict, post-conflict situations, transition periods and the withdrawal of United Nations missions. There must be a commitment to giving proper attention to gender equality issues, with appropriate levels of security and protection and sufficient funding.

Moreover, empowered women's civil society organizations not only play an important external observer role in State measures, but also can direct State actions according to the real needs of women citizens.

In our view, an indispensable part of the whole process is the development of focused and concrete regional cooperation. An example from our own region of South-East Europe is the Regional Women's Lobby for Peace, Security and Justice in Southeast Europe, established in 2006, which has grown into a respected, internationally recognized, strong lobby group for women.

However, the existence of laws does not guarantee their exercise in practice, in particular in traditionally conservative societies and cultures. Therefore, the closer cooperation of State bodies with broad layers of society and the more intensive involvement of men in all gender equality promotion activities remain essential.

With reference to Ms. Diop's mention of Colombia, I should state that we have welcomed the creation of a chapter of Women for Peace and its noble goal of contributing to the process currently under way. Regarding another reference to women's participation in the peace processes, I have just seen a photograph on the BBC showing, among the negotiators, a woman at the side of a man, both part of the guerrilla group's negotiating team.

In Colombia's case, we should highlight the adoption of policies intended to include women, eliminating discrimination and promoting women's economic, political and social empowerment, and their more active participation in development, both in decision-making and in the benefits derived from it. We emphasize successful initiatives such as the forming of women's community councils, regional workshops for indigenous women, and local boards.

Concerning the indicators adopted to evaluate progress in implementing resolution 1325 (2000) and subsequent resolutions on the same subject, these have the potential to become an important tool for designing mechanisms for preventing harmful acts against women and girls and for strengthening the protection of victims.

Fourthly, the international community should enhance its attention and support to the issue of women and development. Achieving women's development is the true foundation for achieving women's genuine empowerment. At present, international development support and technical assistance fall short of the needs of women worldwide. Achieving women's development therefore remains a daunting challenge in conflict and post-conflict situations.

Secondly, the national Governments of Member States bear the primary responsibility for protecting women's rights in conflict and post-conflict situations. In our efforts to protect women's rights and strengthen their role in peace and security, we must respect the ownership of national Governments.

Fourthly, the international community should enhance its attention and support to the issue of women and development. Achieving women's development is the true foundation for achieving women's genuine empowerment. At present, international development support and technical assistance fall short of the needs of women worldwide. Achieving women's development therefore remains a daunting challenge in conflict and post-conflict situations.