Botswana sincerely commends the efforts of the Secretary-General to address t...

Botswana sincerely commends the efforts of the Secretary-General to address the under representation of women in formal peace processes. To that end, my delegation welcomes the inclusion of women in peacekeeping missions in civil, military and police functions. We also recognize that their presence may encourage women from local communities to report acts of sexual violence and other human rights abuses. In addition, efforts by national and international actors to engage women and to address gender issues in the context of combating conflict-related sexual violence must be accelerated. More concrete action should be taken to ensure that that is done. We believe that effective steps to prevent and respond to acts of sexual violence can significantly contribute to the maintenance of international peace and security.