General Women, Peace and Security

Croatia has included elements of resolution 1325 (2000) in its national strategy on gender equality, but we are aware that gaps in the implementation of that resolution need to be continuously monitored. In that regard, my Government extends its support to the leadership of the composite gender entity that is to be established within the United Nations. We see it as an important tool in advancing the issue of women and peace and security.

Croatia welcomes the focus on the need of women and girls in post-conflict situations for sustainable peace and security. Croatia also welcomes the report of the Secretary-General on the implementation of resolution 1325 (2000) (S/2009/456) and its recommendations.

Lastly, on behalf of the Human Security Network — made up of Austria, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Greece, Ireland, Jordan, Mali, Norway, Switzerland, Slovenia and Thailand, and South Africa as an observer member — we would like to welcome the conclusion of the process leading to the adoption of this new resolution.

During the past year much thought has been given in the Security Council to the issue of women and peace and security. We responded to gender concerns through resolution 1820 (2008) last year. The recently adopted resolution 1888 (2009) and resolution 1889 (2009), adopted today, all contribute to strengthening a process that began with the adoption of resolution 1325 (2000).

Likewise, we are carrying out a programme to prevent violence in families that include reintegrated persons. Strengthening the role and the capacity of women, as well as respect for their rights, is a central aspect for the Government of Colombia. In such efforts, the assistance of the United Nations system and the international community is essential.

Secondly, the countries concerned should shoulder the primary responsibility for addressing the needs of women and girls in post-conflict situations and comprehensively implement resolution 1325 (2000). Armed conflicts in different parts of the world vary in cause and nature. The Governments and people of the countries concerned have the best understanding of the needs of local women and girls.

Nine years ago, the Security Council adopted resolution 1325 (2000), a milestone document that has laid the groundwork for international cooperation in the area of women and peace and security. Since then, the Council has taken a number of follow-up actions under the resolution, and relevant Member States have also taken vigorous measures in that regard.

First, responding to the needs of women in post- conflict reconstruction and enabling them to play their full role form an important link in the comprehensive and full implementation of resolution 1325 (2000). Respect for and protection of women and girls are manifestations of social progress and civilization and are an indispensable element of a mature social system.

Women are shouldering an increasing share of the responsibility to maintain world peace and are playing a significant role in peacekeeping, peacemaking and peacebuilding throughout the world. As the Chinese saying goes, women can hold up half of the sky.

Mr. Normandin (Canada) (spoke in French): At the outset, on behalf of the Government of Canada, I wish to thank the Vietnamese presidency for convening this open debate on resolution 1325 (2000). Addressing the needs of women and girls in post-conflict situations is a critical element of the Security Council's responsibilities.