Consequently, the Fiji delegation reiterates the Pacific SIDs' request for the United Nations to support the convening of a regional high-level meeting to develop and adopt a regional action plan on women and peace and security in order to support implementation of the resolution at the regional and country levels.

Violence against women and girls in conflicts, and in particular sexual and gender based violence, continues to devastate the lives of many and too often perpetrators enjoy impunity, as events in eastern-DRC remind us.

To further boost women's participation in peace and security, in 2011 we will implement specific capacity building projects to support civil society and women's networks in crisis affected countries. To report regularly On the implementation of EO's women, peace and security commitments, using the 17 EU indicators that were adopted in July 2010.

The EU works closely with the United Nations and civil society to boost women's participation in peace and security. Inspired by the UN example, EU delegations and missions organised 'Open Door' days to mark this 10th anniversary and to meet with local women's groups.

The EU is encouraged by the SC decision to taking forward the set of indicators as developed by the Secretary-General, to track implementation of resolution 1325 in situations of armed conflict and post conflict and other situations. The EU now calls for a swift operationalisation of the indicators. The newly established "UN women" will thereby play an important role. It has our full support.

The EU considers that a dedicated working group should be established to review progress in the implementation of resolution 1325 (2000) and make recommendations to the Council on how to address gaps and challenges and accelerate progress in implementing the resolution

The EU asks the Security Council to redouble its efforts in the fight against impunity; targeted and graduated measures should be imposed against all parties to conflict responsible for grave violations of women's rights. Perpetrators of sexual violence, including commanders who commission or condone the use of sexual violence, should be held accountable.

In 2008, the EU adopted a comprehensive approach to the implementation of resolutions 1325 and 1820, encompassing humanitarian, development, security and foreign policies measures.

Finally, the EU is convinced that ownership and awareness can be strongly increased by developing National Action Plans-or other strategic instruments. The EU Member States currently have 10 action plans with two more in the pipeline. Excellencies, Distinguished Participants, ladies and gentlemen, thank you for your attention.

Despite 10 years of efforts, progress on protecting women in conflict situations as well as promoting their participation in peace processes, conflict prevention, peacebuilding and reconstruction has fallen short of both the commitments the international community has made and the needs on the ground.