Implementation

The Netherlands has from the beginning put its full weight behind the implementation of 1325 and following resolutions. On 4 December 2007 the Netherlands adopted the Dutch National Action Plan (NAP) on SCR 1325, relying on a broad support base.

The Dutch government has summed up its efforts and results so far in a booklet that will be launched next month: "The Dutch Do's on Women, Peace and Security." Ten years after the adoption of 1325, we can say that more perpetrators of sexual violence are brought to justice in the DRC. That more women take part in decision making processes in Sudan. That more Afghan women demand support in exchange for their vote.

We are appreciative of the various notable efforts in a broad range of areas that the United Nations system, Member States, civil society and other actors have made towards implementing resolution 1325 (2000). But there are many areas in which our concerted efforts are still much needed. My delegation wishes to see an increased number of women in high-ranking positions in the United Nations system, as well as peacekeepers in the field.

The Government of Nepal has adopted various measures to fight gender-related violence, establishing a toll-free hotline in the Office of the Prime Minister, a gender violence prevention fund, and gender violence control committees in every district in the country.

My Government attaches great importance to resolution 1325 (2000), and we are in the final stage of preparing our national action plan for the effective implementation of resolutions 1325 (2000) and 1820 (2008). As a nation emerging from conflict and moving towards lasting peace, stability and prosperity, Nepal is fully aware of the benefits of effective implementation of resolution 1325 (2000).

As enshrined in its interim Constitution, Nepal is committed to setting aside 33 per cent of seats in Parliament for women. We are also committed to continuing an affirmative action policy in our civil service with a view to bringing women into the decision-making levels of the public sector. We are also committed to increasing women's participation in our army and police forces.

We will continue encouraging nations to develop national action plans and to promote the participation of women in their armed forces. In Afghanistan, in particular, we will continue to encourage women to take their rightful place in shaping their country's future.

The Alliance currently has 150,000 women and men engaged in operations from Afghanistan to the Balkans, but also off the Horn of Africa. In these gender-sensitive environments, we have made it clear that the involvement of women in operations is crucial if we want to establish relationships and trust with civil society.

One decade on from the adoption of the Security Council's groundbreaking resolution 1325 (2000), we are confident that we can take the next steps. We will remain committed to taking practical and pragmatic actions with our allies and our partners. We will remain active and engaged, and we look forward to continuing our efforts and cooperation beyond this anniversary.

But looking ahead, NATO intends to do more. We will continue mainstreaming resolution 1325 (2000) in our operations, recognizing that mainstreaming gender perspectives requires a continuous and shared effort until it becomes the norm. We will continue developing education and training in civilian and military frameworks.