Press Release
International Community Reaffirms Women's Role in Conflict Prevention and Recovery
23 December 2005
UNITED NATIONS, New York — UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, has welcomed this week’s decision by the United Nations Member States to establish a Peacebuilding Commission.
“We consider this a major step towards fostering lasting peace in countries emerging from conflict,” said UNFPA Executive Director Thoraya Ahmed Obaid. “I am particularly pleased with the international community’s recognition of the vital role that women play in preventing and resolving conflicts, as well as their vast contributions to building and fostering a lasting peace in their communities. Women and young people must play a central role in peacebuilding.”
The General Assembly resolution stresses the importance of women’s “equal participation and full involvement in all efforts for the maintenance and promotion of peace and security and the need to increase their role in decision-making with regard to conflict prevention and resolution and peacebuilding”. It also recognizes “the important contribution of civil society and non-governmental organizations, including women’s organizations, to peacebuilding efforts.” The resolution calls upon the Commission to integrate a gender perspective into all its work.
A recent report by the United Nations Secretary-General describes how the various United Nations agencies can enhance gender equity in conflict and post-conflict situations as requested in Security Council resolution 1325 on women, peace and security. UNFPA is working to address reproductive health needs, including HIV/AIDS and gender-based violence; build the capacity of women's groups; empower women and youth to participate in political processes; ensure that women's rights are integrated into law reform and that accurate population data is utilized to respond to people’s needs and promote and protect their human rights.
Contact Information:
Omar Gharzeddine
Tel.: +1 (212) 297-5028
Email: gharzeddine@unfpa.org
Abubakar Dungus
Tel.: +1 (212) 297-5031
Email: dungus@unfpa.org
