NEW YORK, Oct 8: Kuwait emphasized on Tuesday that women are not merely victims of conflict, but crucial partners in peacebuilding and societal development. This was stated by Kuwait's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Tariq Al-Bannai, during a UN Security Council session on women, peace, and international security.

Al-Bannai's remarks highlighted that empowering women goes beyond protecting them from violence; it includes granting them full political, economic, and social rights, as well as access to education and healthcare. He stressed that this empowerment is vital for sustainable community security and development.

Referring to a report by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Al-Bannai pointed out the challenges facing the women, peace, and security agenda, 25 years after the adoption of UNSC Resolution 1325 in 2000. He expressed concern over the underrepresentation of women in peace negotiations, noting that women participated in only 7% of peace talks last year, with just 31% of peace agreements reflecting gender equality principles.

“These figures illustrate the exclusion of women from peace processes and highlight the urgent need for their full and effective participation in political and mediation efforts,” Al-Bannai said. He emphasized that women must represent at least one-third of negotiators in all political and peace-related processes to play their rightful role in creating a more stable and equitable future.

The Kuwaiti diplomat also expressed concern about the decline in funding for women, peace, and security initiatives, particularly direct funding for local women’s organizations. These organizations, Al-Bannai stressed, serve as the frontline defense in conflict zones, and their support is essential for peacebuilding efforts.

Al-Bannai reinforced Kuwait's long-standing belief in the integral role of women in national development, referencing the country’s Constitution, which guarantees women’s rights and equality. Since its independence, Kuwait has adopted progressive policies aimed at boosting women’s participation in public life, and its development vision, "New Kuwait 2035," prioritizes gender equality and women’s empowerment.

He highlighted Kuwait’s creation of the National Committee for the Implementation of UNSC Resolution 1325, chaired by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and led by a female representative. The committee has driven significant progress, including the abolition of discriminatory legal provisions, the inclusion of women in the military and police forces, the appointment of female judges and prosecutors, and increased female leadership in diplomacy and other sectors.

Al-Bannai also paid tribute to Kuwaiti women for their longstanding contributions to the nation’s development and commended Palestinian women for their perseverance in the face of ongoing oppression. He noted that Palestinian women continue to suffer under the Israeli occupation, yet remain at the forefront of the struggle for freedom and dignity.

In conclusion, Al-Bannai reaffirmed Kuwait's unwavering support for women worldwide, particularly Kuwaiti and Palestinian women, stating that their protection, empowerment, and fair representation are not just humanitarian priorities but also moral and legal imperatives. "Kuwait will continue to lead efforts in ensuring the fairness and protection of women everywhere," he stated.