Stewart: Contributions of women in conflict resolution processes have gone unnoticed

The exhibition, which focused on shedding light on the role of women in Cyprus negotiation processes, concluded with a closing reception held yesterday evening. Addressing the attendees, including President's Special Representative Ergün Olgun, Cyprus Greek Administration Negotiator Menelaos Menelau, and several ambassadors serving on the island, Colin Stewart emphasized the importance of women's active participation in the resolution process.

Hosted at the Ledra Palace Hotel by the United Nations Good Offices Mission in Cyprus, the exhibition aimed to shed light on the role of women in Cyprus negotiation processes. It featured photographs of women who served as political or legal advisors to the leaders in inter-communal talks, co-chairs or members of technical committees, showcasing their significant roles.

STEWART: CONTRİBUTİONS OF WOMEN İN CONFLİCT RESOLUTİON PROCESSES HAVE GONE UNNOTİCED

During his speech at the closing reception of the exhibition, Colin Stewart, the United Nations Secretary-General's Special Representative for Cyprus, highlighted the objective of the event, which was to draw attention to the pivotal and increasing role of women in the resolution of the Cyprus issue.

Underlining the importance of the event, Stewart stated, "Primarily, the contributions of women involved in conflict resolution processes have gone unnoticed." He further emphasized the need to increase women's participation in the negotiation processes, stating, "However, it should also be acknowledged that the number of women involved and the roles they undertake in Cyprus talks are of utmost importance, even more so than in any other negotiations facilitated by the United Nations."

Stewart noted that conflicts in which women participate equally alongside men in preventing, mediating, and resolving disputes have shown significantly higher success rates, supported by available data. He stated, "For the United Nations, involving women in peace processes is not only about achieving justice and equality, but it is also a strategically wise move in the realm of peacebuilding."

Stewart also mentioned that the agreement between the leaders of the Cyprus Turkish and Cyprus Greek communities on a action plan for the equal and effective inclusion of women in the resolution process or a final settlement process has been positively received by the Security Council.

Highlighting that the plan regarding Gender Equality was prepared by the Technical Committee, Stewart urged everyone to focus on its implementation, saying, "What remains is the execution of the plan, and we all have a role to play in this regard."

Stewart concluded by reaffirming the United Nations' commitment to work with all Cypriots for a lasting and acceptable solution on the island, emphasizing their unwavering determination in achieving peace.