New York:United Nations Bangladesh's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Irene Zubaida Khan, has emphasized the necessity of women's effective and meaningful participation in decision-making processes to achieve sustainable peace. She asserted that such participation is crucial for making peace and security both sustainable and inclusive.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Ambassador Khan made these remarks during an open debate on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) at the UN Security Council. She highlighted Bangladesh's position as a key co-sponsor of the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 and reiterated the nation's commitment to advancing the Women, Peace, and Security agenda.
The ambassador stressed the importance of grassroots women's initiatives in preventing violence and conflict escalation. She noted that Bangladesh adopted its National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security six years ago and is currently progressing into the second phase of implementation, which focuses on engaging relevant stakeholders, including civil society and women's organizations.
Furthermore, Ambassador Khan highlighted the need for training and raising awareness among adolescent girls and young women on violence prevention. She advocated for their active involvement in conflict resolution and mediation at the local level, emphasizing the significant impact of women's grassroots initiatives in preventing conflict escalation and establishing peace.
In her address, she called for increased support for women human rights defenders and organizations, the protection of women in conflict-affected areas, and ensured sustained funding for peacekeeping operations and vulnerable communities.