In view of the Open Debate this week on the 15th anniversary of the United Nations Security Council resolution 1325 on women, peace and security, FIDH recalls that 15 years later, far too little has been done by Member States to protect the human rights of girls and women in conflict and to ensure their participation in the resolution of conflict. Rape is being used as a weapon of war in many conflicts around the world today – from South Sudan, to the DRC, to ISIS which has openly condoned rape as way of attracting new recruits.
In a Position Paper published today, FIDH urges Member States to close the crippling gap between the ambitious commitments made in resolution 1325 and the action needed in order to make a difference in the lives of girls and women on the ground.
Noting the deplorable state of impunity for sexual violence in conflict, FIDH recalls the necessity for Member States to arrest and prosecute perpetrators of sexual violence and increase women’s access to justice. FIDH also urges all Member States to adopt National Action Plans on the implementation of 1325 with measurable indicators to ensure progress is made.
The UNSC must also strengthen the 1325 agenda in its peacekeeping and political missions, especially in Afghanistan, South Sudan, and the DRC. Women’s rights in Afghanistan are especially at risk as the Taliban have gained increased power in parts of the country. While President Ashraf Ghani stated that he would only “bother” women to participate in talks “at the right time, ” the international community must send a strong message to Afghanistan that women must be included as part of any peace negotiations. The inclusion of women is the only to ensure a stable and lasting peace.