Held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), the international conference served as a critical platform for government leaders, international representatives, and civil society stakeholders to assess progress on the WPS agenda since the adoption of United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325.

 

The UNSCR 1325 underscores the importance of including women in peace and security initiatives globally, advocating for their meaningful participation in decision-making processes at all levels.

 

The general discussions, co-chaired earlier in the day by Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique A. Manalo, focused on key priorities for the WPS agenda, including the evolution of the Philippines’ National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security (NAPWPS) and efforts to create a robust support system that empowers women leaders within peace and security sectors.

 

The program also emphasized the importance of strengthening partnerships between government and civil society to support sustainable programs that integrate women’s roles in peacebuilding and conflict prevention. This collaborative approach aims to establish enduring frameworks that empower women in leadership, promoting resilience and stability within communities affected by conflict.

 

Among the main results of the session is the adoption of the Pasay Declaration, an outcome document that captures the collective commitment of participating nations to further the WPS agenda. The declaration aims to solidify global consensus on addressing challenges to women’s full participation in peace processes, including structural barriers and the need for stronger financing mechanisms to support women-led initiatives.

 

Continuing the conference’s focus on practical solutions, the DBM will lead Thematic Session 3: Investing in Impact: Financing Strategies for WPS Initiatives on October 29, 2024. This session will focus on identifying innovative financing strategies that can sustain women-led peace initiatives and improve the effectiveness of WPS programs.

 

Joining Secretary Mina in the session are Australia ambassador for Gender Equality Stephanie Copus Campbell, HIAS Ukraine Country Director Maria Jose Gomez Gonzales, and Philippine Commission on Women Chairperson Ermelita V. Valdeavilla. It will be moderated by journalist and UN Women Philippines Goodwill Ambassador Karen Davila.

 

Running until October 30, 2024, the ICWPS provides a vital space for dialogue and knowledge exchange among global leaders, policymakers, and civil society representatives.

 

By fostering collaboration and sharing best practices, the conference is expected to influence future policies and programs that elevate women’s impact on peace and security initiatives worldwide.