Negotiation of peace agreements and postconflict reconstruction are nothing n...

Negotiation of peace agreements and postconflict reconstruction are nothing new for women, who are catalysts for national econciliation. They strengthen development efforts and are fundamental factors in the restoration of stability in societies that have suffered the ravages of war. Security Council resolution 1325 (2000) was the first recognition by the Security Council of the fundamental role that has been played historically by women in maintaining and restoring international peace and security. However, in most cases, the contributions of women have unfortunately been unofficial, far from the negotiation tables, and heir potential to spread peace has been belittled or underestimated on far too many occasions.