In peacebuilding, State bodies work together in joint efforts to guarantee the protection of women from risks that affect them in areas where there are illegal armed groups. Furthermore, ensuring inclusion of the gender perspective and the full participation of women in the prevention of violence is being promoted.

In order to meet the various existing international commitments with regard to the promotion and protection of the rights of women, including Security Council resolutions on women and peace and security, Colombia has at its disposal a significant constitutional, legal and institutional framework and gender-based strategies that cover social, economic and cultural aspects.

In his report on women and peace and security (S/2010/498), the Secretary-General acknowledges that significant progress has been made in several areas. However, he also warns that much remains to be done to realize the vision of resolution 1325 (2000). In particular, the report refers to the need to redouble efforts to ensure that women can play their rightful role in conflict prevention and resolution and in reconstruction processes.

Furthermore, the Presidential Advisory Office on Gender Equality, the United Nations Development Fund for Women, the United Nations Population Fund and the International Organization for Migration jointly run the Integrated Programme Against Gender Violence, which seeks to help prevent, treat and eradicate gender-based violence affecting Colombian women both publicly and privately.

Among recent developments, I would like to mention that, as recognition of the particular needs of women and with a view to ensuring a life free of violence, in December 2008 we adopted law No. 1257 of 2008. That law sets out standards of awareness, prevention and punishment for forms of violence and discrimination against women.

Although Colombia has a significant legislative framework and public policies that mainstream the gender perspective and variables, there persist challenges such as full integration, a review of indicators on the basis of international standards and the adoption of specific measures against gender-based violence.

Allow me to congratulate you, Sir, on your assumption of the presidency of the Security Council for the month of October. Colombia appreciates the convening of this open debate to commemorate the tenth anniversary of the adoption of resolution 1325 (2000), on women and peace and security.

Secondly, Governments in conflict or post-conflict situations bear primary responsibility for the protection of women in their own countries. The international community should provide assistance to the countries concerned and obtain their understanding and cooperation in order to help them in capacity-building, including promotion of security sector reform, strengthening the rule of law and improving judicial and relief mechanisms.

Thirdly, ensuring women's participation in political processes, recovery and reconstruction is an important part of the implementation of resolution 1325 (2000). The effective participation of women in political processes, national reconstruction and national reconciliation will contribute to the maintenance of social stability and the consolidation of peace in post-conflict countries.

Resolution 1325 (2000) focused the international community's attention on women in conflict and provides the basis for the international community to cooperate in helping countries in post-conflict situations to protect women's rights and interests. The international community has much to do for the comprehensive implementation of resolution 1325 (2000). Here, I wish to emphasize the following four points.