Implementation

In the occasion of the tenth anniversary of resolution 1325 (2000), we think that it is necessary to step up our commitment to a complete implementation of its noble objectives in a number of ways.

To conclude, I would like to recall that my country, Burkina Faso, adopted in 2009 a national gender policy, which was drawn up in a participatory and inclusive way. For its implementation a three-year plan of action — 2011 to 2013 — was drafted and adopted. In terms of gender equality, the adoption of a law setting quotas of 30 per cent in the legislative and municipal elections is an important step forward.

The issue of women and peace and security will not find a definitive solution without the complete empowerment of women and their full participation in the lives of their communities and countries. That is why Burkina Faso again welcomes the establishment of UN Women in this year marking the tenth anniversary of resolution 1325 (2000). We hope that that entity will enjoy all the support necessary for the success of its mandate.

One of the challenges for an ideal implementation of resolution 1325 (2000) remains coordination. Given the multisectoral nature of the issue, every entity and agency of the United Nations should play its role, in the framework of a common, coherent effort capitalizing on individual strengths.

On 15 December 2009, Burkina Faso also launched a programme to combat violence against women. This year it commemorated the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women with the clear motto: “The consequences of violence against women on victims, families and communities”.

First of all, we can legitimately welcome some achievements, notably at the institutional level, with the appointment of Ms. Margot Wallström as Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict.

Valuable as they may be, indicators are not enough. They are but a means to an end. We must work harder to effect concrete changes through action. It is important to increase engagement by the Governments concerned. National action plans are important vehicles in this regard, especially if they also involve a broad range of actors, including civil society. It is also important that action plans be supported by adequate funding.

Peacekeeping and peacebuilding are important ways by which the United Nations can strengthen the role of women as agents of peace; so much so that empowering women and protecting their rights should not be the exclusive task of gender advisers in peacekeeping operations, but rather a responsibility shared by all mission components.

Like much of resolution 1325 (2000), most of the indicators apply only to countries in conflict or emerging from it. Nevertheless, some indicators have a much wider applicability, such as the ones pertaining to United Nations field missions or investigation of

In the discussions of ways to enhance implementation of resolution 1325 (2000), the role of indicators has become a focus of our attention. Indicators are an important tool to improve information on the impact of armed conflict on women and on the role they can play in peacebuilding. They will enable us to respond more effectively and improve our action in protecting women and involving them in peace processes.