Implementation

Nevertheless, we recognize the existing implementation gaps in the women and peace and security normative architecture identified in the report of the High-level Independent Panel on Peace Operations and through the global study on the implementation of resolution 1325 (2000). Without any doubt, more needs to be done to advance the women and peace and security agenda.

This meeting is particularly important as it has been a year since the adoption of historic resolution 2242 (2015) and the issuance of the global study on the implementation of resolution 1325 (2000). Despite the many gains achieved on the issues of women and peace and security during the past 16 years, there is only temporary progress.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo, which has been affected by many years of armed conflict with very adverse consequences, in particular on women and children, is firmly committed to the implementation of resolution 1325 (2000), on women and peace and security.

Let me conclude by quoting the Secretary General: “Justice for women takes more than new laws and new funding. Ultimately, we need new mindsets.” Having said that, let me express our readiness to promote and support the full implementation of the agenda on women and peace and security domestically as well as abroad.

Sixteen years ago, resolution 1325 (2000) reaffirmed the importance of the equal participation and full involvement of women in all efforts to maintain and promote peace and security. We agree with a statement in the global study that in an era when armed extremist groups place the subordination of women at the top of their agenda, our response should be unwavering support for empowering girls and women.

The Czech Republic seeks to strengthen the position of women in society through development cooperation and humanitarian aid. That goal is enshrined, inter alia, in our multilateral foreign development cooperation strategy for the period 2013-2017.

Nearly 16 years since the adoption of resolution 1325 (2000), the international community has undertaken substantial efforts to implement it, and undeniable progress has been made, including action plans, guidelines, programmes and training. Awareness has been raised of the need to include women in conflict prevention and resolution, peacebuilding and decision-making.

We recognize that civil society, especially women’s organizations, have spurred that rebuilding and the future adherence to the agenda for women’s rights. That is why they are now strategic State partners in the search for that shared goal.

The women and peace and security agenda is a priority of Chile’s multilateral foreign policy. We therefore promote strengthening cooperation at regional and global levels and establishing public policies at country level. In the global context, we would like to point out our co-sponsorship of Spain’s initiative to create a network of national focal points on women and peace and security.

The Group welcomes the establishment of the Informal Expert Group on Women and Peace and Security as an outcome of resolution 2242 (2015) to facilitate a more systematic approach to the agenda in the Council and enable greater oversight and coordination of implementation efforts.