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The President of Liberia, HE Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, Africa's first elected woman Head of State has opened the Wilton Park conference, UnitedNations Security Council Resolution 1325: What are the challenges?

In her opening remarks she said:
"...there remains every reason to see the challenges that we have confronted over the past five years of implementing Resolution 1325, as opportunities for women to rise up and assume a more active role in the decision-making contours of the political terrain in Africa".

UN Security Council Resolution 1325 was passed unanimously on 31 October 2000. Resolution 1325 is the first resolution ever passed by the Security Council that specifically addresses the impact of war on women, and women's contributions to conflict resolution and sustainable peace.

President Johnson Sirleaf concluded by saying:
"We urge us all, partners in the global struggle for gender equity and equality to rekindle the spirit of Resolution 1325, to simplify and adjust every aspect of their lives in investing and acknowledging women's roles and leadership in post conflict situations. We urge zero tolerance for war and a positive affirmation for peace. We direct this appeal to those with the power and resources to make a difference. We point once again to the several recommendations in Women, War and Peace. Indifference is not an option. We must achieve the critical mass of 30 per cent women in decision making in all aspects of national endeavor. This represents the overarching challenge to Resolution 1325."

President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf pictured with Adam Noble , Chief Executive of Wilton Park.

Speech by Her Excellency Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, President of the Repubic of Liberia at Wilton Park 30 May 2006

Presentation by Mr. Anwarul K. Chowdhury, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States.

View the conference programme