In the discussions of ways to enhance implementation of resolution 1325 (2000), the role of indicators has become a focus of our attention. Indicators are an important tool to improve information on the impact of armed conflict on women and on the role they can play in peacebuilding. They will enable us to respond more effectively and improve our action in protecting women and involving them in peace processes.

In my own country there has been compelling evidence that, when women are empowered, they can act successfully to change their lives and the lives of those around them. Under “Bolsa Familia”, a conditional cash transfer programme that has lifted millions of Brazilians out of poverty, women are the preferred recipients of transfers.

However, we share a sense of optimism that, given our collective will, especially within the Security Council, we can bring an end to impunity and to this crime against humanity.

As the report of the Secretary-General (S/2010/498) indicates, some progress has indeed been made in the implementation of resolution 1325 (2000), as demonstrated by the notable efforts made by the United Nations system, Member States, civil society and other actors. In this regard, a number of activities covering a broad range of areas have been undertaken over the past decade.

As 2010 marks the tenth anniversary of the adoption of the Security Council resolution 1325 (2000), on women, peace and security, it is of the utmost importance that we strive to ensure gender equality, fight violence against women and to enhance women's participation in international peace and security.

We recognize that peace is inextricably linked with equality between women and men. One of the most important issues to be addressed with regard to women and armed conflict remains women's participation in conflict resolution and the negotiation of peace agreements at the national and international levels.

We believe that if women are to play an equal part in the maintenance of peace and security, they must be empowered politically and economically and represented adequately at all decision-making levels, both at the pre-conflict stage and during hostilities, as well as during peacekeeping, reconstruction and reconciliation.

Today's deliberations reaffirm the great importance that we attach individually and collectively to the impact of conflict on women and to the role that women can play in the prevention and resolution of conflicts.

Therefore, we must ensure that the provisions of resolution 1325 (2000) are realized in order to enable women to participate fully and equally in all levels of decision-making with regard to conflict prevention and peacebuilding. Women must become full agents in the shaping and rebuilding of their communities in the aftermath of war.

Resolution 1325 (2000) represents one of the most important milestones of gender mainstreaming in the United Nations. Since its adoption in 2000, this important tool has allowed the United Nations and its agencies, through the Inter-Agency Task Force on Women and Peace and Security, to work together on these issues. Considerable attention has also been paid to its implementation at the national and international levels.