With regard to impunity, we should recognize the essential role of international criminal justice, and particularly of the International Criminal Court, in addressing cases of sexual violence in armed conflict. The Rome Statute, and this was in itself a major achievement, recognizes sexual violence as potential war crimes and crimes against humanity.

The widespread or systematic use of violence against women in armed conflicts is a security issue, as well as, of course, a human rights issue. It affects a whole society, significantly exacerbates situations of armed conflict and may impede the restoration of international peace and security.

The issue of violence against women in armed conflict is closely related to that of Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict, which is a priority of the Human Security Network. Both the protection of civilians and the provisions of resolution 1325 have to be fully incorporated in the mandates for all peacekeeping operations.

On behalf of the members I would like to express our appreciation to the Republic of Uganda for convening this important Ministerial - level open debate on Women, Peace and Security - a priority issue for the Network - and to welcome the Executive Director of UN Women, Michelle Bachelet, to her first briefing to the Security Council and thank her for her presentation of the Secretary General's report, marking the progress we have made and high

It is evident this landmark resolution has greatly contributed to an increased political focus on the area of women, peace and security. Over the years, the Council has remained active in this area through the adoption of resolutions 1820 (2008),1888 (2009) and, most recently, resolution 1894 (2009). With resolution 1888 (2009) the Council established the mandate of a Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Armed Conflict.

It is an honour for Costa Rica to speak today in its capacity as Chair of the Human Security Network (HSN). The network is a cross-regional group of countries, which includes Austria, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Greece, Ireland, Jordan, Mali, Norway, Slovenia, Switzerland and Thailand, and South Africa as an observer.

However, despite the progress of the past ten years, many challenges remain. Abhorrent conditions that women and girls face in all conflict sltuations persist, effective and comprehensive methods for addressing those realities are still lacking.

An urgent and effective response from the international community is required. There must be clear objectives, starting with ending impunity, empowering women, rejecting various forms of discrimination, mobilizing political leadership and increasing awareness of rape as a tactic and consequence of armed conflict.

All member states have a responsibility to implement Resolution 1325. The development of National Action Plans is a key component by which Member States commit themselves to fulfill this responsibility. The coming decade should aim for action and accountability. Women's full enjoyment of all human rights have been at the heart of the Human Security Network since its inception.

Moreover, guidelines for the displaced population are being drawn up with a targeted gender approach. Their goal is to provide effective care that responds to the specific needs and impact that displacement has on women. The guidelines are based on three guiding aspects: participation, a focus on law, and a genderperspective approach.