That is why Turkey has given its strong support to projects aimed at ensuring increased participation by women in all areas of social and political life. In other words, we believe that the empowerment of women in its entirety should be at the core of all our efforts. In that respect, let me cite our approach in Afghanistan.
Ms. Alberdi and Ms. Amin for their briefings and their contributions to our debate. Since the adoption of Security Council resolution 1325 (2000) in 2000, there has been progress across a broad range of issues related to the protection and promotion of women's and girls' rights in conflict- affected situations, particularly in terms of raising awareness of the challenges that they face.
Likewise, equally strong measures are needed to increase the participation of women in post-conflict recovery efforts and peace processes, since that would increase the effectiveness of such efforts. Indeed, we should not forget that women in post-conflict countries are not merely victims of war, but also agents of change towards modernization and transformation, making immense contributions to sustainable peace and prosperity.
Given the adoption of resolution 1888 (2009) only a week ago, this meeting has particular significance in demonstrating to the world at large the continued commitment of the Council to the empowerment of women in all its aspects. In this respect, I would like to commend Viet Nam's leading role in organizing this debate, as well as its efforts in preparing the resolution we have just adopted.
As mentioned in the Secretary-General's reports, there are many ongoing projects and programmes aimed at protecting women and girls against gender- based violence and other kinds of risks and challenges. However, despite the progress made so far, we cannot fail to note that much remains to be done, particularly in the area of implementation.
To that end, we believe it important for women in local communities to be allowed to participate in finding solutions for the reconstruction and rebuilding of their countries. The importance of equal representation and participation of women in formal peace processes and at negotiating tables cannot be overemphasized.
There is an urgent need to advocate more strongly for the equal participation and full involvement of women in all efforts for the maintenance and promotion of peace and security.
The primary responsibility for preventing and protecting women and girls in conflict situations and their aftermath should not lie with the international community alone. That would assist in promoting local ownership in peace processes. South Africa remains committed to the full and effective implementation of resolutions 1325 (2000), 1820 (2008) and 1888 (2009).
Subregionally, gender equality and the empowerment of women are among the founding principles of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and are enshrined in the SADC Treaty. We have been greatly honoured by the leadership and important contribution of women in recent peace processes and negotiations in our region.
