General Women, Peace and Security

To implement resolution 1325 (2000), the Government of Burundi has decided that no strategy will be adopted or implemented without taking into clear account the gender dimension, so as to guarantee the full participation of women in decision-making, in prioritizing plans of action and in implementing them.

Eleven years ago, the Security Council adopted the landmark resolution 1325 (2000) on women and peace and security. Thereafter, several resolutions, such as resolutions 1820 (2008), 1888 (2009), 1889 (2009) and 1960 (2010), have been adopted to buttress the process initiated in resolution 1325 (2000). We are, however, disappointed to note that violence against women and girls continues, as detailed in various reports.

The Council has consistently recognized the significance of women in preventing, managing and resolving conflict, including as recently as through two important recent resolutions, resolution 2014 (2011) on Yemen and resolution 2009 (2011) on Libya.

Our country welcomes the report of the Secretary- General (S/2011/598*), which comprehensively reflects the important role that women play in preventive diplomacy, peace negotiation processes, and post-conflict reconstruction. The merit of resolution 1325 (2000) is specifically that the Security Council recognizes therein the key role that women can play as protagonists in peace processes.

We applaud its recent decision to explore the security implications of such divergent topics as development; cultural and religious tolerance; HIV/AIDS; and women, peace and security. Yet the Council would render itself irrelevant if it chose to ignore the biggest security threat of our time.

" In 30 years, AIDS has killed some 30 million people and orphaned more than 16 million children. The Second World War is the only conflict to have claimed more victims and caused greater suffering. The

"Lastly, I would like to emphasize that HIV/AIDS, a disease that knows no boundaries, no gender or race, or even age difference, has become a global concern. On the other hand, world peace depends not only on securing borders, but also on securing people against threats and risks to their security. Through its work, the Council is undoubtedly committed to seeking solutions and to addressing the challenges that may arise.

"It must be emphasized that in some situations HIV can negatively affect and be an obstacle to gender empowerment and the full involvement of women in peacebuilding efforts. Greater protection of women and girls has been emphasized through the adoption of Security Council resolutions 1820 (2008), 1888 (2009), 1889 (2009) and 1960 (2010)."

Mr. President, we have a window of opportunity to translate recent Security Council cooperation on civilian protection into lasting improvements in our response to crises. We must seize it—for all of our sakes, and for the sake of the innocent men, women, and children who rely on our collective action to defend them.

The United Arab Emirates reiterates its strong condemnation of the serious and tragic crimes committed against peaceful civilians, especially women, children and humanitarian and media workers, in areas of armed conflict.