The improvement of the status of women, in particular in countries with ident...

The improvement of the status of women, in particular in countries with identified patterns of conflictrelated sexual violence, starts with addressing the very basic issues involved in enabling women to live a more decent life. The experience of Lithuania and other partner countries in Afghanistan, where Lithuania is leading a provincial reconstruction team, shows that women's empowerment and full participation at all levels of economic, political and social life are key not only to peace and security but also to poverty reduction, economic recovery and sustainable development. To cite but two examples, one project aims at consulting local medics and patients on midwifery and other women's health- related questions at the provincial hospital. Another important development project for local women and their organizations was dedicated to strengthening the capacity of the provincial administration and local non-governmental organizations to prepare and implement their own projects. Finally, Lithuania calls on the Security Council to use its authority to ensure that all resolutions, including those on mission mandates and their renewal, integrate and advance the women and peace and security agenda.