Thank you, Madam Chairperson, / Mister Chairperson,
I would like to begin by thanking both chairpersons for providing us the opportunity to discuss on today’s Security Dialogue a subject that not only shapes our present but defines our future — women’s contributions to peace and security. This topic is not just timely; it is crucial as we navigate an increasingly complex global landscape. Than you so much for the excellent panelists on today’s meeting and much respect and gratefulness to their contribution.
In recent years, global progress has highlighted women’s crucial role in promoting peace and security, yet significant challenges persist. The conflict in Ukraine underscores this, with women playing vital roles across defense efforts, from strategic decision-making to frontline operations and humanitarian aid delivery.
Allow me to share Albania’s journey on women peace and security agenda, highlighting our progress, the lessons we have learned, and the path forward.
Albania has made commendable progress in integrating women into peace and security processes. Our commitment is evident across several key areas. We have strengthened our legal framework to support gender equality and women’s participation in peacebuilding. We have enacted laws promoting gender equality, have implemented and continue to implement national action plans in line with UN Security Council Resolution 1325.
Moreover, Albanian women are increasingly assuming leadership roles at all decision-making levels. The representation of women in parliament, and central and local government has significantly improved. This political empowerment is crucial as it ensures that women’s perspectives are included in decision-making processes. Furthermore, the inclusion of women in our security forces has been a priority, with women actively serving in the police and military. Their involvement contributes to a more comprehensive approach to security, encompassing community outreach and conflict prevention.
Albanian women are contributors to the diplomacy as well. The number of women ambassadors and diplomats has increased, providing a strong voice in Albanian diplomacy.
We have also been working on preventing and addressing gender-based and domestic violence. Improving the legal and policy framework, and implementing programs to provide services to women victims of violence in close collaboration with civil society organizations, are key components to ensure safety and security for women.
From our experiences, several key lessons have emerged
Political will is paramount to ensuring high-level commitment to the gender equality and WPS agenda. In addition, funding for programs and initiatives addressing these issues is crucial to materializing commitments and ensuring success.
Women bring unique perspectives and solutions that often address the root causes of conflict, fostering long-term peace. In times of peace, continuous education and training programs for women are essential. By equipping women with the necessary skills and knowledge, we empower and enable them to address issues of peace and security.
Engaging and partnering communities and grassroots organizations, ensuring that challenges to peace and security experienced by specific populations are recognized and incorporated. Furthermore, coordination among all actors is a precondition for the successful implementation of national action plans and WPS agenda.
The action plan for women and security should not be considered only as a document, it is more than that. It is a tool or roadmap to further implement the government policy on WPS and should hold all actors accountable.
Continuous monitoring and evaluation of the progress made, lessons learned, challenges ahead and how to address them, is another lesson that we have learned through our work.
Despite the progress, challenges remain. Deep-seated cultural norms and stereotypes still hinder women’s full participation in peace and security. Overcoming these requires sustained efforts in education and advocacy. Ensuring adequate resources for gender-focused initiatives remains a challenge. The evolving nature of global conflicts, including cyber threats and terrorism, climate change and food insecurities, calls upon adaptive strategies that include women’s insights and participation.
It is important to emphasise that the Albania’s second Action Plan on the Implementation of UN Resolution 1325 pays closer attention to a more in-depth approach to human security, including access to education, health care, job opportunities and justice, placing more emphasis on innovative approaches to security and peace, towards a security agenda that applies a softer approach to human, economic and environmental security.
To build on our progress and address these challenges, Albania is committed to several strategic actions. We will continue to strengthen our partnerships with international organizations, civil society, academia, media, and private sector addressing the root causes of gender inequality. At the same time, we continuously will improve our legal and policy frameworks and ensure its implementation. One of our proactive strategies will remain women economic empowerment to prevent violence against women and trafficking of women and girls.
In conclusion, I would like to emphasize that women’s contributions to peace and security are indispensable. Albania has made significant strides, but we recognize that the journey ahead is still long. By learning from each other’s experiences and addressing the challenges ahead, we can create a more peaceful and secure world for all.
Thank you
