Statement by the Delegation of Armenia at the Security Dialogue on the Code of Conduct on Politico-Military Aspects of Security: Impact of Armed Conflict on Women and Girls

Mr Chairperson,

Armenia welcomes the Security Dialogue on the Code of Conduct on Politico-Military Aspects of Security: Impact of Armed Conflict on Women and Girls.

Women and girls continue to bear a disproportionate burden in times of armed conflict and crisis, which makes today's discussion both timely and relevant. According to the recent report of the UN Secretary-General on women, peace and security in 2024, 676 million women and girls lived within 50 kilometres of deadly conflict, the highest recorded level since the 1990s. The report also highlights sharp increases in harm: civilian casualties among women and children quadrupled compared with the previous two-year period and UN-documented conflict-related sexual violence increased by 87 per cent over two years. While the physical suffering of women and girls in conflict is widely recognized, greater attention must also be given to the mental and psychosocial toll they endure.

The protection of women and girls in armed conflict cannot be separated from broader questions of security, stability, and respect for international law. Furthermore, under the Code of Conduct on Politico-Military Aspects of Security, participating States reaffirmed the comprehensive concept of security enshrined in the Helsinki Final Act, which links the maintenance of peace to respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. The impact of armed conflict on women and girls clearly demonstrates that security cannot be detached from the protection of human dignity, accountability for violations and the full implementation of our shared commitments.

Mr Chairperson,

Women are not merely beneficiaries of protection. They are actors, leaders, mediators and peacebuilders. Their meaningful participation contributes to more inclusive decision-making, stronger community resilience and more durable peace.

The landmark UN Security Council Resolution 1325 reaffirmed the essential role of women in conflict prevention, relief and recovery, and peace processes. Its continued implementation remains central to ensuring that peace and security efforts are inclusive, effective and sustainable. In this context, it is also important to ensure the protection of women and girls from gender-based violence during armed conflict.

Concerted international efforts are crucial to preventing such violations. The OSCE's conflict cycle tools can be instrumental in preventing violence against women and girls and safeguarding their rights.

The Government of Armenia remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing the Women, Peace and Security agenda, recognizing the pivotal role of women across all stages of the conflict cycle. Armenia has translated its WPS commitments into three National Action Plans, ensuring coherent and coordinated policies that enhance women's roles across various sectors, including security sector governance and reform.

Armenia's Third National Action Plan on the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 for 2025-2027, entitled "Investing in Global Efforts for Peace", seeks to strengthen women's role in decision-making, combat gender-based violence and advance post-conflict recovery.

The Government of Armenia has consistently promoted gender equality in the defence sector by fostering an environment of inclusive and meaningful participation, particularly in decision-making processes. Since 2013, Armenia has provided professional military education opportunities for women in military universities. In 2023, a new law was adopted ascribing a possibility for women to voluntarily serve in the armed forces for six months, with the option to apply for five-year contractual service. Armenian female peacekeepers continue to contribute to international peacekeeping efforts in Kosovo, within KFOR, and in Lebanon.

Let me conclude by reaffirming Armenia's conviction that lasting peace, strong institutions and truly inclusive development can only be built on the foundation of women's full, equal and meaningful participation. Armenia remains committed to advancing efforts that deliver tangible outcomes for women and girls across all spheres of life.

Thank you.