Implementation

It is for this reason that the Pacific SIDs are of the view that the first important step for us to take is to develop a regional framework that incorporates the principles of the resolution, with clear policy guidelines on its application to our unique national and regional characteristics. We believe that this will provide the impetus to accelerate the implementation process in the Pacific.

Furthermore, we support the participation and representation of women at all levels of decisionmaking. In our consultations and interactions with civil society and the public, we are fortunate to have femLINKpacific, a Fiji-based non-governmental organization that specifically deals with resolution 1325 (2000). We also welcome the appointment of its coordinator to the United Nations Civil Society Advisory Group on Women, Peace and Security.

For the purposes of this event, we first wish to comment on the pronouncement, highlighted in the Secretary-General's report, that in the 10 years since the adoption of resolution 1325 (2000), its overall implementation has been slow. Undoubtedly, progress has been made, but much work remains to be done in implementing the resolution and assessing the progress of individual countries.

Fiji is fully committed to the implementation of resolution 1325 (2000). This commitment is exemplified in our continuing efforts to meet the goals set out in the four broad thematic areas of the United Nations System-wide Action Plan. In the area of participation, our policies strongly encourage the recruitment of women in our security forces and their deployment, with equal opportunities, to peacekeeping missions.

Consequently, the Fiji delegation reiterates the Pacific SIDs' request for the United Nations to support the convening of a regional high-level meeting to develop and adopt a regional action plan on women and peace and security in order to support implementation of the resolution at the regional and country levels.

To further boost women's participation in peace and security, in 2011 we will implement specific capacity building projects to support civil society and women's networks in crisis affected countries. To report regularly On the implementation of EO's women, peace and security commitments, using the 17 EU indicators that were adopted in July 2010.

The EU works closely with the United Nations and civil society to boost women's participation in peace and security. Inspired by the UN example, EU delegations and missions organised 'Open Door' days to mark this 10th anniversary and to meet with local women's groups.

The EU is encouraged by the SC decision to taking forward the set of indicators as developed by the Secretary-General, to track implementation of resolution 1325 in situations of armed conflict and post conflict and other situations. The EU now calls for a swift operationalisation of the indicators. The newly established "UN women" will thereby play an important role. It has our full support.

The EU considers that a dedicated working group should be established to review progress in the implementation of resolution 1325 (2000) and make recommendations to the Council on how to address gaps and challenges and accelerate progress in implementing the resolution

The EU asks the Security Council to redouble its efforts in the fight against impunity; targeted and graduated measures should be imposed against all parties to conflict responsible for grave violations of women's rights. Perpetrators of sexual violence, including commanders who commission or condone the use of sexual violence, should be held accountable.