New York:Bangladesh's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Irene Zubaida Khan, has emphasized the critical role of women in achieving sustainable peace and security. She highlighted the importance of meaningful participation by women in peace processes and decision-making, noting that grassroots initiatives are essential for preventing violence and fostering long-lasting peace.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Ambassador Khan spoke at a recent UN Security Council open debate on Women, Peace and Security (WPS). She recalled Bangladesh's significant role as a key co-sponsor of Security Council Resolution 1325 and reaffirmed the country's dedication to the WPS agenda. She pointed out Bangladesh's National Action Plan on WPS, which was introduced six years ago and is currently in its second phase. The ongoing implementation involves consultations with stakeholders, particularly civil society and women's groups.
Khan stressed the necessity of training and sensitizing girls and young women in violence prevention and encouraging their active participation in community-level mediation. She highlighted that grassroots efforts are crucial for preventing disputes from escalating into larger conflicts, with Bangladesh prioritizing these initiatives through both government and NGO programs.
Additionally, Ambassador Khan called for increased investment in women's organizations and human rights defenders, protection for women in conflict-affected areas, and consistent financing for peace operations and vulnerable communities. She underscored the need for a gender-focused approach to security, advocating that women must have a meaningful voice in peace negotiations, political leadership, and decision-making processes. Khan urged the international community to turn WPS commitments into tangible actions to promote inclusive and sustainable peace.