The conference kicks off on Tuesday to review the progress made in implementing the resolution in the five countries, and explore challenges that countries face in addressing gender-based violence and discrimination in peace and security operations, the United Nations said in a statement on Sunday.

UN Security Council Resolution 1325 of 2000 reaffirms the important role of women in the prevention and resolution of conflicts, peace negotiations, peace-building, peacekeeping, humanitarian response and in post-conflict reconstruction, and stresses the importance of their equal participation and full involvement in all efforts for the maintenance and promotion of peace and security.

Member states are expected to increase the participation of women and incorporate gender perspectives in all peace and security efforts, and to take special measures to protect women and girls from gender-based violence, particularly rape and other forms of sexual abuse, in situations of conflict.

JK/afm/APA