Thank you, Mr. Chair

As one of the most gender equal country in the world, Iceland has long been a strong proponent of the Women, Peace and Security agenda, globally and at home. We believe this is especially important now, in the context of both heightened global insecurities and an ongoing and systematic backlash against women’s rights around the world. Indeed, in times of conflicts, polarization and instability, we need more women to participate in security, defense and peace efforts.

Mr. Chair,

The WPS agenda is not a niche human rights issue, nor is it a mere moral endeavor, it is simply an effective and efficient approach for our common security. Women are an essential part of the OSCE’s comprehensive security approach – they bring unique, invaluable contributions to better outcomes.

It is therefore essential to ensure that women play an active role at all levels of expertise in leading security organizations, such as the OSCE. They play a critical role in security and defense, notably in conflict prevention, peacebuilding, peacekeeping, conflict resolutions and in confidence building measures. Their participation is essential if we wish to deliver the best results possible, especially in these times of heightened conflict and increased polarization.

The Russian war of aggression against Ukraine has shaken the foundations of security in the OSCE region laid down 50 years ago by the Helsinki principles. War and conflict exacerbate gender tensions, and they force women to adapt to the terrible circumstances created by war. Women and girls in war zones become victims of sexual violence and displacement. We particularly commend the bravery of all Ukrainian women who are actively engaged in all aspects of the war, including those defending their country on the frontlines.

Mr. Chair,

These last few years, we have witnessed a gradual but steady backsliding of democratic values across the OSCE region, which leads to a continuous weakening and degradation of fundamental rights. This disproportionately affects women and girls and reinforces inequalities, such as gender stereotyping and harmful gender norms, and violence against women.

It is essential that we keep the WPS agenda at the core of any future peacebuilding. It is a cornerstone to ensure a just and lasting peace. We call on all participating States to continue supporting the WPS agenda, and to fight against this reversal of generational gains in women’s rights across the OSCE region.

Iceland’s forthcoming fourth National Action Plan on WPS underscores our dedication to this cause. The NAP will focus on advocacy, knowledge-building, prevention, and at the domestic level, increased meaningful participation of women within our security and defense sector. A particular focus will be on implementation and accountability.

Mr. Chair,

Now is the time to defend the values on which the OSCE was founded. The women, peace and security agenda are integral to these values. They are as important, if not more important, than they were 25 years ago. And it is vital that we continue to defend them. Gender equality and women’s meaningful participation go hand in hand with stability and peace. It is an essential and ongoing process that can never be considered finished once and for all. And it requires the commitment and the contribution of both women and men.

Together, let us continue to move forward on Women, Peace, and Security, strengthening this agenda within the OSCE and around the world.

I thank you.