Netherlands

First of all, the Government of the Netherlands sees women as leaders. In our national action plan based on guidelines set forth in resolution 1325 (2000), as well as in our wider human rights and gender equality policies, we have chosen to focus on the role of women as political actors in conf lict prevention, conf lict resolution and recovery. We believe in the power of women as agents for peace and as representatives of communities living in conflict. During the recent opening week of the sixty-eighth session of the General Assembly, the Netherlands Minister of Foreign Affairs, Franciscus Timmermans, hosted an event with a group of Syrian women. He heard their recommendations and opened doors for them here in New York. Their stories inspired many and offered new hope for a solution to the horrific conflict in Syria. We stand ready to further support Syrian women's contributions to that end.

Secondly, we support the women's agenda in countries in conflict or transition. In his report, the Secretary- General finds that deficits remain in opportunities for women to exercise leadership, with shortfalls existing in the resources provided to support women and strengthen their organizational capacities. Recognizing that fact, the Netherlands has therefore established a funding mechanism called “Women on the Frontline” for women's organizations in countries in transition in the Middle East and North Africa. We aim to support them with organizational and capacity development. Our aim is clear — women should be in a position to make their voices heard, demand their rights and contribute to the development of their countries.

Thirdly, we support legal systems based on equality. We need a gender-sensitive approach to the rule of law and transitional justice in conflict and post-conflict situations. Women and girls should have equal access to fair and transparent justice services and they should be able to influence justice policies and institutions in their country. In that respect, we also acknowledge the important contribution of the International Criminal Court and other special courts and tribunals in addressing gender-based and sexual violence in specific.

Fourthly, we care about prevention and the protection of victims of sexual violence in conflict. The Netherlands welcomes the continued high-level attention to the role of women in conflict situations. In June, the Council adopted resolution 2106 (2013); other international actors, such as the Group of Eight, have also shown real commitment to the prevention and prosecution of sexual violence in conflict. For my Government, that is a crucial part of the 1325 agenda.

The prevention of, and protection from, sexual violence is an issue that continues to demand our full attention. I am proud to announce that the Netherlands recently increased its contribution to the United Nations Trust Fund for the Elimination of Violence against Women by $2 million, bringing it to a total of more than $8 million.

As I have said, the Kingdom of the Netherlands wants to be a partner for peace, justice and development. The role of women is crucial in all three dimensions.