Resolution 1325 in Action: Lessons Learned and Reflections on 1325 NAPs
What are the challenges and opportunities for developing and implementing UNSCR 1325 National Action Plans (NAPs) on Women, Peace and Security around the world? On July 8th, 2013, the Permanent Mission of Japan to the UN and the Global Network of Women Peacebuilders (GNWP) hosted a panel discussion addressing this issue. Panelists included Mavic Cabrera-Balleza (GNWP), Naoto Hisajima (Japan), Dharanidhar Khatiwada (Nepalese Ministry of Peace and Reconstruction), Hilde Klemetsdal (Norway), and Anne-Marie Goetz (UN Women).
Civil society and UN Women speakers agreed that widespread lack of local ownership and political will, which is due in part to lack of knowledge and/or capacity, serves as a major barrier to the implementation of the 42 NAPs that exist today. In support of WILPF's work to strengthen women's participation and reduce militarism and arms, UN Women's Anne-Marie Goetz also highlighted the need for women to engage in national management councils regarding issues of small arms control and the limitation of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Representatives from Japan and Nepal highlighted how support for strong and ongoing civil society-government collaboration is critical for effective development and implementation of the Women, Peace and Security agenda.