How India Suggests Zero Tolerance Approach On Violence Against Women By Terrorists

On the eve of Women's Day, India's Permanent Ambassador conveyed India's approach to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on violence against women. The session was an open debate called 'Women, Peace and Security' (WPS) to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of Resolution 1325.

The day-long debate saw the enthusiastic participation of over 90 nations discussing the issues women face. The session was chaired by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Verónica Nataniel Macamo Dlhovo of the Republic of Mozambique.

The session started with a discussion of the progress made since the inception of the landmark resolution 1325 in 2000 on women, peace, and security.

The debate discusses the issue of gender apartheid in Afghanistan, the forceful takeover of the military in Myanmar, and the worsening condition of Ukraine hostilities. The nations agreed that globally the position of women is concerning.

Permanent Ambassador of India, Ruchira Kamboj reiterated India's stance as a peacekeeping nation that empowers its women. In January this year, India deployed a women's peace battalion for the United Nations Interim Security Force in Abyei (UNISFA). As early as 2007, India deployed to Liberia all women police units.

India's Approach In The UNSC On Violence Against Women: Suggestions by the Ambassador 

The Indian UNSC Ambassador proposed four elements to help maximise the 1325 resolution to further women, peace, and security.

The first suggestion by India stated that a conducive environment must be created for women-led development in politics and decision-making.

The second suggestion urged the UNSC member nations to have a solid legal support system for women that brings their perpetrators to justice.

The third suggestion placed weightage on the women peacekeepers and police units, a critical part of the WPS agenda.

The final suggestion brought to notice the endless crimes committed against women by terrorists and how all forms of terrorism should adopt a zero-tolerance approach.

The debate concluded with the declaration of streamlining gender perspectives in UN efforts toward security and peace. Furthermore, it declared RHA more participation of women was required for a resolute WPS agenda.

Suggested reading: Pervasive Human Rights Violation: UN Chief Speaks About Violence Against Women