Twenty-five years ago, on 31 October 2000, a momentous shift took place in the way peace processes are undertaken. The United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security was adopted, bringing with it an impetus to include women in every step of the UN’s peace and security efforts.

The WPS agenda is a declaration of women’s essential and transformative role in conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and post-conflict recovery. The participation and leadership of women in these spheres are an essential and proven element of sustaining peace.

In Kosovo, we commend the resilience and leadership of women across the spectrum, including those working within institutions and civil society, to strive for lasting peace and stability.

Despite progress, significant challenges remain, including gender-based violence and inequality of representation, while new threats, such as digital violence, are emerging.

UNMIK reaffirms its commitment to continue working to support the full participation, protection and contribution of women in peace and security.