Riyadh calls on UNSC to address challenges affecting women, society

NEW YORK: Saudi Arabia has called on the UN Security Council and UN agencies supervising Women, Peace and Security plans, to address the challenges that hinder the development of women and society as a whole, including ending all kinds of occupation, combating anti-Muslim extremist speech and practices, and achieving comprehensive development for all people.

The Kingdom made this call during its speech at the Security Council’s open debate on Women, Peace and Security on Friday, which was delivered by the political coordinator of Saudi Arabia’s Permanent Mission to the UN, Manal Hassan Radwan.

“The three main challenges faced by women are occupation, the rise of violence in conflict zones and the growing danger of terrorist groups, and the outbreak of anti-Muslim extremist speech,” Radwan said. “These challenges negatively impact economic and social development.”

She also stressed that despite celebrating the 17th anniversary of adopting the Women, Peace and Security plan, and despite international consensus on the importance of women’s role in peace, security, human rights and development, implementation of these goals is still incomplete and requires increased efforts to address the root causes of the challenges faced by women on their path to achieving their full rights.

She pointed out that women’s advancement has been among the Kingdom’s most important priorities and said: “Saudi Arabia has supported women’s education, thus strengthening their role in the private and public sectors.”

“Among Saudi women’s most important achievements were taking seats in the Shoura Council, participating in municipal elections, playing an important role in the diplomatic field and taking many leadership roles.” She continued: “Besides, women’s advancement is at the forefront of implementing the sustainable development agenda of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.”