Security Council calls for strengthened efforts to implement UNSCR 1325

New York, 23/10/07: The Security Council today urged the UN Member States to strengthen their efforts to implement UN resolution 1325 (2000) on women, peace and security. There was a call to enhance women’s role in decision-making and peace processes to counter widespread gender discrimination. The Council further expressed deep concern over the gender-based violence suffered by women and girls in conflict. It was stressed that women should be present in senior positions within the police and army, including also UN peace operations. Recently, Danish Ambassador Ellen Løj was appointed the UN Special Representative for Liberia – a country that has taken strong measures to include women in key positions under the leadership of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Later this year, Secretary General Ban Ki-moon will launch a worldwide campaign on violence against women and girls.