DFA chief calls for protection of women in conflict zones

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FOREIGN Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo yesterday called on the international community to protect women in conflict zones, stressing that failure to do so would place at risk the advances in women’s rights that have taken place over the years.

Manalo issued the appeal in his speech during the opening ceremony of the 3-day International Conference on Women, Peace and Security in Manila attended by delegations from 80 countries.

“Women and girls live in harrowing conditions in conflict zones. They are disproportionately affected by gender-based violence, restricted from accessing critical services, and often denied participation in decision-making processes,” Manalo said, adding that conflicts around the world such as in Ukraine, Sudan and the Middle East show the urgency for the international community to do something to effectively implement the Women Peace Security Agenda.

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“Tackling gender-based violence to addressing climate-linked security challenges, we know inclusive peace requires bold action and strong partnerships,” he added.

The DFA chief cited figures to show the urgency in tackling the problem, adding that last year the number of women worldwide affected by armed conflicts rose to 35 percent while there was also a 50-percent increase in the number of conflict-related sexual violence against women and girls.

Aside from this, he said women also bear a larger share of the burden when it comes to food insecurity, displacement, and resource shortages in conflict zones.

Speaking of the Philippines, Manalo also noted that the involvement of women in peace and security efforts has deep historical roots in the country as a testament to gender equality.

“Our history bears witness to women who have taken on significant roles in conflict resolution and governance,” he added.

Manalo also said women also bore the brunt of the problems due to climate change, economic vulnerability, and rising militarization.

“That there is a significant relationship between climate security and gender equality is more apparent. Environmental changes often impact women in conflict regions more severely,” he said, adding that Manila is very much aware of these challenges since the country has experienced being affected by climate change that resulted in unusually strong typhoons.

Manalo appealed for more sustainable funding for Women Peace Security initiatives and urged global leaders to make the Pasay Declaration a milestone in advancing women’s roles in peace and security.

“We must view women not as victims but as agents of resilience and change,” he said.

“Together, we can turn commitment into action and make peace truly inclusive,” Manalo added.

The Pasay Declaration is the communique that will be issued by the gathering that will, among others, include proposals for sustainable, gender-responsive peace frameworks, and practical strategies that promote and reinforce the role of women in peace and security.

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