NEW YORK: The State of Qatar has reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to working with the international community in advancing efforts that elevate the role of women in peace and security. Qatar emphasized that supporting the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda is essential for achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
This declaration was made by HE Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani, Qatar's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, during the Security Council's open discussion on "Women Building Peace in a Changing Environment" in New York.
She underscored that, despite significant strides in the WPS agenda, many conflict zones continue to see grave violations of international humanitarian and human rights laws, often met with impunity. She noted that women and girls bear the brunt of these crises, particularly in Gaza, where ongoing aggression leads to severe humanitarian violations. Women and girls are especially vulnerable, facing risks from airstrikes, health crises, shortages in essential supplies, the destruction of educational infrastructure, and widespread displacement.
Emphasizing the urgency of translating political commitments into tangible actions, shecalled for increased awareness of women's vital role in peace and security. She highlighted the importance of empowering women in conflict prevention and response efforts, stressing that women's leadership in these areas is essential to addressing today's complex global challenges.
Reaffirming Qatar's dedication to fully implementing the WPS agenda, she expressed pride in Qatar's support for the UN Secretary-General's "Joint Pledge for Women's Participation in Peace Processes." She added that the upcoming 25th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 presents a valuable opportunity to reflect on the transformative impact of the WPS agenda.
Sheikha Alya underscored the need to expedite progress across the agenda's four pillars: prevention, protection, participation, and relief and recovery. She welcomed the newly adopted "Charter for the Future," which she described as a critical platform for advancing these goals, particularly in recognizing women's pivotal role in achieving lasting peace. Their full and equal participation in decision-making at all levels of peace and security processes is fundamental to sustaining global stability.