Implementation

Furthermore, all parties must respect the achievements of the past decade, in particular Afghanistan's international human rights obligations and core principles enshrined in the Afghan Constitution. Women's rights and the empowerment of women should be critical elements of the peace process, and must remain on the top of our agenda.

The report of the Secretary-General (S/2012/133) contains recommendations from the comprehensive review of UNAMA's activities in Afghanistan, which was also conducted in response to Mr. Rassoul's request.

It is crucial that improvements in human rights and gender equality, which are guaranteed in the Afghan Constitution, not be compromised in the reconciliation process. Finland believes that women's meaningful participation is a key component of a successful transition. The full and equal participation of women at all levels of society is a prerequisite for democracy and human rights.

Among the most notable successes in Afghanistan of the past decade are the tremendous gains made by Afghan women and girls. Those gains must not be lost. Canada views the status and role of women as a key barometer by which the success of Afghanistan's progress will be measured. The recent Ulema Council statement, as well as cases of heinous abuse of Afghan women, represents a dramatic step backwards for Afghan women.

War has always impacted men and women differently, but probably never more so than in modern armed conflicts. In recent armed conflicts, women and girls have been disproportionately targeted and constituted the majority of victims. They are also more vulnerable to all forms of violence, in particular sexual violence and exploitation.

Viet Nam is of the view that the diverse nature of violence against women and girls requires a comprehensive approach.

Secondly, stopping sexual violence against women in armed conflict is closely linked with women's empowerment and gender equality. Only when women can play a full and equal part in peace, conflict resolution and post-conflict processes can we build the foundation for international peace and security.

The United States welcomes and supports the recommendations in the Secretary-General's report, particularly with regard to the need for all parties to conflict to make specific and time-bound commitments to cease acts of sexual violence and bring perpetrators to justice.

For example, the United States believes that it is crucial to increase women's participation in security forces involved in preventing conflict and building peace as one way to reduce conflict-related sexual violence. The United States funds and implements the Global Peace Operations Initiative, which has facilitated the training of 2,451 female peacekeepers worldwide.

As Council members, we need to make combating sexual violence part of our discussions with briefers so that it becomes an integral part of our practice. We have recognized for some time that conflict-related sexual violence is a security issue, but the Secretary-General's report places that matter beyond dispute.