Mr. Chair,
Norway thanks the OSCE for its comprehensive annual progress report on the implementation of the 2004 Action Plan for the Promotion of Gender Equality. We commend the efforts made by the Secretariat, institutions, and field operations to advance gender equality across all three dimensions of security. Allow me to make three points on this occasion.
First, we welcome the focus on preventing and combating gender-based violence, including sexual and gender-based violence in conflict. This is an area where the OSCE has unique tools and field presence, and we support further integration of this work in the OSCE’s conflict prevention and resolution efforts.
We also underline the importance of meaningful participation of civil society — especially women’s organizations — in shaping and evaluating the OSCE’s work. Our additional contribution this year to the OSCE’s WIN project confirms our commitment to supporting networks promoting gender equality across the region.
Second, we support the OSCE’s emphasis on promoting women’s participation in peace and security efforts through programmatic activities and recruiting processes. We are particularly concerned by the continued underrepresentation of women in senior positions, especially in field operations and among seconded personnel.
Third, gender equality must be treated as a cross-dimensional issue. Efforts across the three dimensions of security should be complementary and mutually reinforcing. Financial literacy, participation in decision-making processes, and viewing security challenges through a gender lens are steps to more equal and prosperous societies.
Mister Chair,
Promoting gender equality is not optional — it is essential to achieving the organization’s mandate of comprehensive security. Norway reiterates its firm commitment to advancing gender equality, women’s rights, and the Women, Peace, and Security agenda. We stand ready to work with all participating States and institutions to ensure full and effective implementation of the Gender Action Plan.
Thank you.