Addressing the Council’s annual debate on resolution 1325, the Secretary-General called for urgent action to bridge the gap between rhetoric and reality in the areas of participation, financing, and leadership. He highlighted the lack of representation of women in peace agreements and peace processes, emphasizing the need for their contributions in a world plagued by conflicts and crises.
Mr. Guterres pointed out the suffering of women in areas affected by war and insecurity, including Afghanistan, Haiti, Sudan, Ukraine, and the Middle East. He condemned Hamas’ brutal atrocities and the bombing of Gaza, which disproportionately affected women and children. He emphasized the importance of women’s presence in peace talks and urged governments to support conflict mediation and allocate funding for women’s organizations.
The Executive Director of UN Women presented the Secretary-General’s report on resolution 1325, revealing a 50% increase in the number of women and girls living in conflict-affected countries. She highlighted the crisis in Israel and Gaza, where women and children on both sides have been killed and displaced. She called for an end to violence against women and girls and emphasized the decline in women’s meaningful participation in peace processes.
The President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) stressed the need for adherence to international humanitarian law and the equal protection of civilians, combatants, and prisoners of war. She called for action to prevent and address sexual violence and underscored the importance of women’s participation in peace efforts.
Positive news came from Colombia, where women participated in negotiations between the Government and the ELN rebel group, leading to a bilateral ceasefire. The Brazilian diplomat representing her country at the talks highlighted the gender dimension in previous negotiations with the FARC rebel group.