While it is understood that the Security Council has an important role to pla...

While it is understood that the Security Council has an important role to play in dealing with peace and security matters internationally, States bear the primary responsibility to protect their citizens women and children in particular from violence. It is in this regard that my delegation calls for more concerted efforts by the international community and the Security Council to prevent and address the myriad of issues surrounding conflicts. Indeed, countries in conflict and those that have recently emerged from conflict have unique challenges which, if not comprehensively addressed, will lead to either a continuation or a relapse into conflict. The international community must provide the necessary framework and assistance to ensure that women do not suffer needlessly from conflict or its aftermath. The adoption of resolutions 1820, 1888 and 1889 clearly demonstrates an increased commitment on the part of the Security Council to address violence against women.