General Women, Peace and Security

Women are key and active partners in decision-making, conflict resolution, the development of peace strategies and the promotion of the culture of peace.

The issue of the overall empowerment of women has a special place in both the internal and external policy of the Government of Croatia. We deem the role of women's civil society organizations to be an indispensable part of those policies.

With regard to the body of the Secretary-General's report, our attention is particularly drawn to the prominent role assigned to the culture of preventing situations negatively affecting women, with special emphasis on conflict situations, through mechanisms such as early warnings, cooperation, constructive dialogue and effective support for them in the public decision-making arena.

It should be recognized that the primary responsibility for protecting women in matters related to peace and security belongs to States. Thus multilateral bodies and reports submitted should focus on coordinating procedures that facilitate performances, help to reduce duplication of efforts and build a coherent focus on the ground.

Colombia has benefited from United Nations technical and financial assistance to ensure the introduction of a gender approach into its national policies and laws.

Fourthly, the international community should enhance its attention and support to the issue of women and development. Achieving women's development is the true foundation for achieving women's genuine empowerment. At present, international development support and technical assistance fall short of the needs of women worldwide. Achieving women's development therefore remains a daunting challenge in conflict and post-conflict situations.

Fourthly, the international community should enhance its attention and support to the issue of women and development. Achieving women's development is the true foundation for achieving women's genuine empowerment. At present, international development support and technical assistance fall short of the needs of women worldwide. Achieving women's development therefore remains a daunting challenge in conflict and post-conflict situations.

Women are a great force in the creation of human civilization. The promotion of gender equality and the protection of women's rights have a direct bearing not only on women's vital concerns but also on world peace and development. Although women tend to be victims in conflict and post-conflict situations, they are also important partners in the prevention and mediation of conflicts and in post-conflict reconstruction.

The report of the Secretary-General presents the progress made since last year relating to the implementation of resolution 1325 (2000) in four areas of action: prevention, participation, protection, and relief and recovery. It also covers the steps announced with a view to improving monitoring and evaluation systems aimed at fulfilling commitments relating to women and peace and security.

The present debate is without a doubt an opportunity to strengthen action in the implementation of the women and peace and security agenda. This year's theme reflects the central role played by women's groups in the implementation of this agenda and the work they carry out in favour of peace and the empowerment of women.