OSCE, Peace Research Institute Oslo assess national plans on women, peace and security in new publication

The OSCE Gender Section together with the Peace Research Institute Oslo (PRIO) on 22 October 2014 launched a new publication, which assesses good practices and challenges within the 27 National Action Plans in place across the OSCE region on implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security.

The publication, the OSCE Study on National Action Plans on the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1325, provides concrete recommendations on further steps needed to either improve or to create a new National Action Plan. It aims to serve as a comprehensive strategic document for OSCE participating States developing strategies for implementing the Resolution.

“We need to include women and gender analysis in all aspects of security, no matter if it is in a conflict situation or in a peaceful society,” said Ambassador Miroslava Beham, Senior Adviser on Gender Issues at the OSCE. “Without these aspects we would lose out on vital components that give us a comprehensive understanding what security means to both men and women in any given situation. This study is an important part of the puzzle in assisting participating States to implement their gender equality commitments in the field of security.”

Helga Hernes, Senior Advisor at PRIO, said: “Women’s participation in all questions of security and peacemaking is essential, and the 27 Action Plans adopted in the OSCE region are witness to the fact that governments have recognized women’s potential contributions as well as their democratic rights to be heard. Research shows that women often bring a broader range of issues to the table, issues which need to be taken into account in order to achieve sustainable peace.”

UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, adopted in 2000, addresses the disproportionate and unique impact of armed conflict on women, recognizes the importance of women's equal participation and full involvement in maintaining and promoting peace and security, and the need to enhance protection of women, girls and their rights.

The Guidance Note is available at www.osce.org/gender and at www.prio.org/