Today, EULEX marks the 16th anniversary of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security. The marking of the passing of UNSCR 1325, should serve to remind everyone of the effect of war on women and to recognize the importance of women’s equal participation in peace-building efforts. 

Since the adoption of resolution 1325 in the year 2000, the UN Security Council has adopted seven additional resolutions all of which are now a part of the Women, Peace and Security Agenda. The agenda consists of three major tracks; women’s right to equal participation in peace-building activities, women’s special needs and right to protection in conflict, notably from sexual violence, and the integration of a gender perspective in peace and security missions, otherwise known as gender mainstreaming. 

Regarding the practical meaning of gender mainstreaming for EULEX, the mission has established a Gender Focal Point (GFP) structure within its organization that systematically integrates the gender perspective in the mission’s several working areas. The results show, amongst others, an increase in the usage and collection of gender segregated data and the strengthening of Kosovo rule of law institutions in dealing with sexual and gender based crime.  

On the 16th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325, UN Women spotlights women’s leadership and the critical role they play in preventing conflict, sustaining peace and shaping more effective responses to today’s complex crises.

EULEX strongly supports and highlights the importance of the participation of women in peace-building as foreseen in UNSCR 1325 

“EULEX takes gender mainstreaming seriously and I consider that each member of EULEX should be a gender watchdog in his/her own capacity.  EULEX, through its Gender Focal Point structure will keep cooperating closely with the Kosovo Agency for Gender Equality and provide the best possible support and advice, ” EULEX Head of Mission Ms. Alexandra Papadopoulou said.

“One important aspect in preventing violence against women and reducing women’s vulnerabilities is to support women’s participation in public life. The interdependence between participation and protection is very close. An example could be to improve women’s overall participation in institutions such as the police force and the justice system. This will in return reduce women’s vulnerabilities and thereby increase their probability of seeking justice,” Ms. Papadopoulou added.