Statement of Uruguay, March 28, 2016

The participation of women continues to be inadequate in peace negotiations in Africa and in other regions of the world. It is uncontestable that women are the most credible spokespeople for expressing the needs of local communities. They inspire the greatest degree of trust in situations that require the collection of information and testimony from the victims of sexual and gender-based violence. Women have much to say on issues, such as those involving victims, reparations and the conditions needed to ensure that conflict does not reoccur. Women also bring new approaches to negotiations, making constructive contributions to ensure lasting peace. In that regard, they endow the peace process with greater sensitivity with regard to issues that are related to family, education, gender issues and equity, and are called on to play a determining role in verifying and implementing agreements.