Women, Peace and Security at 25: Where have we come since 2000 and what are Czechia's priorities within the agenda?

The Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Resolution is celebrating 25 years since its adoption by the UN Security Council. At the same time, the Czech government has passed its third national action plan on the agenda this year. Why is it important not to forget about the agenda in the current climate of heightened security risks? And what are Czechia's priorities within the agenda for the next five years?

We discussed these and other issues at an event commemorating both milestones: the anniversary of the agenda and the approval of the National Action Plan. The event took place at the French Embassy. It was opened with welcome remarks by the French Ambassador H.E. Stéphane Crouzat and Government Commissioner for Human Rights Klára Šimáčková Laurenčíková. Moreover, a letter from Czech President Petr Pavel, who also gave his patronage to the event, was read. This was followed by two panels, the first on the domestic dimensions of the agenda and the second on the foreign policy perspective on the agenda. 

Discussions focused on the need for available funding to translate the agenda from theory into practice and on the need to promote the agenda among the general public. The importance of the agenda in addressing new crises, such as hybrid threats and climate change, was also emphasized, since these too have a gender dimension that needs to be taken into account.

The event was organized by the Association for International Affairs, CARE Czech Republic, the Czech Forum for Development Cooperation, Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung Prague, Lobbio, and the Institute of International Relations.

We would also like to thank the Embassy of the French Republic in the Czech Republic, the Embassy of Canada in the Czech Republic, the Office of the President of the Czech Republic, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, and the Office of the Government for their cooperation and support.