Blog of Donatella Benjamin, SI Representative to the United Nations in Geneva.
Did you know the Security Council annually holds an open debate on ‘Women, Peace, and Security’ (WPS), and Viola Amherd, the President of the Swiss Confederation, is also a Soroptimist?
‘Promoting sustainable peace’ is one of Switzerland’s key priorities for its term on the UN Security Council in 2023–24. On October 24th, during Switzerland’s second presidency of the Security Council, Viola Amherd seized the opportunity of the WPS debate to highlight the critical role of women’s increased participation in peacebuilding and mediation.
In her speech, she underscored the importance of involving women in peace processes from the very beginning. Equal participation is essential for the success of peace agreements. Research shows that peace accords in which women play a significant role are 30% more likely to last at least 15 years.
Despite these findings, Viola Amherd emphasised, progress in the participation of women in peace processes has stagnated. Violence against women and girls has increased worldwide, particularly in the digital space, where women are increasingly exposed to attacks, intimidation and harassment. This situation is alarming.
She also expressed concern that international instruments and agreements, such as UN Resolution 1325, which emphasises the right of women to fully participate in peace processes, continue to be inadequately implemented. Women are still only marginally considered in many negotiations and often have no voice in crucial talks. She emphasised that it is crucial not to see women only in advisory or supportive roles, but to ensure that they have an equal place at the negotiating table.
Another key topic for the President of the Swiss Confederation was the protection of women who are politically active. Women who work publicly for peace and equality often face considerable risks. The threats and attacks they suffer, both online and offline, hinder their work and must be urgently stopped through better protection and stronger legal measures. Viola Amherd called upon the international community to show more political resolve in advancing gender equality for women in peace processes.
Thank you President Viola Amherd, a truly Soroptimist speech!