Opening Remarks DSRSG Ghulam Isaczai, Commemorating the 24th Anniversary of UNSCR 1325: Advancing Women, Peace, and Security

I am truly honored to be here with you today to commemorate the 24th anniversary of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security. Adopted in 2000, this landmark resolution was the first to acknowledge the disproportionate impact of conflict on women and girls, as well as their vital role in conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and recovery.

Over the past 24 years since its adoption, we have made undeniable strides in advancing women's rights, inclusion, and the amplification of women voices in peace and political processes. However, it is equally clear that much work still lies ahead. The ongoing events in Gaza and Lebanon starkly remind us that, as an international community, we still have significant work ahead.

This region, more than any other, has borne the brunt of conflict and violence, with women and girls disproportionately affected, enduring the greatest hardships of displacement, conflict, and loss. In Gaza and Lebanon, countless women and girls have lost their lives, while survivors endure repeated displacement under unbearable conditions. They face increased vulnerabilities, struggling not only to survive but also to protect and care for their children amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis. Despite these immense challenges, we have witnessed the rise of courageous women - women who, despite great personal risks, have taken on critical roles in humanitarian efforts within their communities. 

Protecting women, especially during times of conflict, is intrinsically linked to their participation and inclusion in peace and political processes. These two pillars—protection and participation—are interdependent, and neither can succeed without the other. As the UN Secretary-General has underscored, “women’s participation must be the norm, not an afterthought”. Achieving this requires three key elements: strong political will, adequate financial resources, and decisive, sustained action.

Iraq has made significant strides in enhancing women's roles in peacebuilding, governance, and decision-making, setting a valuable example for the region. With its first two National Action Plans and a third in development, Iraq has established a robust framework for women's rights and participation. Women’s representation has expanded in security, the judiciary, and politics, notably exceeding the constitutional quota in the 2023 Provincial Council elections. Initiatives like the National Women’s Peace Mediators Network and the Yazidi Survivors Law support women's recovery and reintegration. These achievements reflect the tireless advocacy of the National Directorate for Iraqi Women, which continues to drive women's leadership and empowerment in the country.

The UN will continue supporting the Government’s efforts to enhance women’s roles in peace and security, aligning with national priorities, international commitments, and UN Security Council Resolution 2732, which emphasizes the 'full, equal, meaningful, and safe participation of women' in political and electoral processes. Under the leadership of the new Special Representative, Dr. Mohammed Al-Hassan, these efforts will be further strengthened through the 2025-2029 UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, the primary framework for collaboration between the UN and the Government of Iraq.

Finally, I want to reiterate the urgent need to end the violence in Gaza and Lebanon. The safety of civilians, especially women and girls, depends on it, but so does the future of our entire region. 

Thank you once again for having me, and my sincere appreciation to everyone involved in today’s event, especially the National Department for Iraqi Women, under the leadership of Dr. Yusra Mohsen. Your tireless efforts in supporting Iraqi women and girls and building a better future are beyond measure and cannot be thanked enough.