South Africa Calls for Enhanced Efforts to Advance Women’s Role in Peace and Security

25th October 2023

United Nations, New York

In a significant address to the United Nations Security Council during the Open Debate on Women, Peace, and Security, Dr. Naledi Pandor, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa, emphasized the urgent need to move from theory to practice in enhancing women’s participation in international peace and security efforts. The statement, delivered on the 25th of October, resonated with the global community, shedding light on the critical role women play in achieving lasting peace.

Dr. Pandor expressed South Africa’s gratitude to the Federative Republic of Brazil for convening the open debate and commended the informative presentations by the briefers. The Minister noted that as the international community prepares to mark the 25th anniversary of resolution 1325, increased efforts are required to translate commitments into tangible progress concerning women’s involvement in peace processes.

Highlighting the disheartening reality that only 19 percent of women are involved in UN-led peace negotiations today, a drop from 23 percent in 2020, Dr. Pandor stressed the importance of having women at the negotiation table, emphasizing that peace agreements tend to be more sustainable when women are actively engaged.

The Minister cited the UN Secretary-General’s report, which presented several actionable steps that member states can take to reverse the declining trend in women’s participation. South Africa expressed broad agreement with these recommendations.

Moreover, Dr. Pandor addressed the concerning increase of 50 percent in the number of women and girls living in conflict-affected areas in 2022 compared to 2017 due to rising armed conflicts worldwide. South Africa reaffirmed the need for urgent action to secure peace in conflicts such as the Israel/Gaza War, conflicts on the African continent, and the Russia/Ukraine conflict.

South Africa’s commitment to advancing women’s participation in peace and security efforts was further exemplified by its initiation of the Gertrude Shope Annual Dialogue Forum in 2015 and the Women Mediators Network. These initiatives have been instrumental in training African women negotiators and peace monitors, uniting women from various communities and setting targets for their direct involvement in peace delegations and negotiating teams.

Dr. Pandor applauded the contributions of South African female peacekeepers, who have made a significant impact on the ground in various missions. Notable individuals, such as Major Felicia Thobeka Mswane, Lieutenant-Colonel Martha Masango, Major Seitebatso Pearl Block, and Lieutenant-Colonel Fhulufheto Kouter, were recognized for their dedicated service and leadership.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Pandor acknowledged the crucial role played by civil society organizations in the pursuit of sustainable peace. She highlighted the Women of the Sun of Palestine and Women Wage Peace of Israel as examples of cross-community solidarity that advocate for dialogue and diplomacy to achieve a just, comprehensive, and sustainable peace in the Middle East. Dr. Pandor encouraged these women to persist in their efforts despite the ongoing challenges and deepening political and security crises.

South Africa’s message to the United Nations Security Council underscores the necessity of concerted international action to empower women and ensure their meaningful participation in peace and security processes, as these efforts are essential for building a more peaceful and just world.