Thirdly, we need to focus not only on protection but also on the empowerment ...

Thirdly, we need to focus not only on protection but also on the empowerment of women, who could be strong promoters of the peacebuilding process. We must find a way to ensure the empowerment of women in post- conflict situations, by improving their socio-economic conditions. This can be achieved b promoting access to health services, education, vocational training, income generation activities and land and property rights. Unless we succeed in creating such conditions, I am afraid that it difficult to consolidate peace and prevent the recurrence of another conflict.