Statement of the PeaceBuilding Commission, March 28 2016.

Realizing the ambition of a better more inclusive future and a sustainable world that achieves sustainable development — with sustainable peace and security for all at its core — will require that we respond forcefully and with determination to the issue and condition of women and girls in our societies. The centrality of gender issues within families and communities, especially with regard to the protection and promotion of girls and women, cannot be gainsaid. That is equally true within, and among, nations. That is why we are having this debate here today in the Security Council. But words without actions are shameful and futile. Global peace and harmony are intrinsically tied up with the promotion and protection of the human rights of women and girls everywhere. We must act accordingly. Let there be no doubt about that.