Beham: Women need a role in conflict resolution in Ukraine

VIENNA - Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Senior Adviser on Gender Issues, Ambassador Miroslava Beham, has said that enhancing the participation of women in conflict resolution and peace-building efforts is key to achieving security and stability in Ukraine, according to a release from the OSCE.

After concluding a four-day visit to Ukraine on Thursday, during which she met with representatives of the Kyiv government, international organizations and civil society, Beham said it was clear that the changing circumstances were bringing a new urgency to the cause of gender equality as it was imperative to include all segments of society in conflict resolution, peace-building and reconciliation efforts.

Beham pointed out that according to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), an overwhelming majority of internally displaced persons were women, who were were in urgent need of assistance properly targeted to their requirements.

She added that developing focused support for demobilized people returning from the conflict zone was equally urgent for addressing social tension, including the issue of domestic violence.

Beham said it was encouraging to see important processes launched in the area of gender equality since her last visit to Ukraine in September 2014.
"Steps have been taken to create a National Action Plan for implementing UN Security Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security as well as the start of a process to ratify the Istanbul Convention on Preventing and Combating violence against women," said Beham. "These are all important steps to create a future of peace and prosperity for all Ukrainian citizens."

During her visit, Beham met with representatives from the Ministry of...

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