Implementation of UNSCR 1325 in Europe

On 31 October 2000, the United Nations Security Council unanimously adopted resolution 1325 on women, peace and security (WPS). The passing of SCR 1325 should be regarded as groundbreaking: it was the first time that the UNSC addressed the distinct experiences and contributions of women in the context of peace and security. SCR 1325 calls for full and equal participation of women and the integration of a gender perspective in all peace and security initiatives. It covers the inter-linked thematic areas of participation, protection, prevention, and relief and recovery. SCRs 1820, 1888 and 1889 strengthen and complement 1325. Implementation of SCR 1325 and related WPS commitments is a common concern and responsibility of each UN Member State - be it conflict-affected, donor or other.

Europe
The majority of existing national action plans (NAPs) for implementation of WPS commitments originate in Europe. Currently, there are 12 countries in Europe with a NAP, of which 9 are EU Member States: Austria (August 2007); Belgium (February 2009); Denmark (June 2005; 2008); Finland (September 2008); Iceland (March 2008); The Netherlands (December 2007); Norway (March 2006); Portugal (August 2009); Spain (early 2008); Sweden (June 2006; early 2009); Switzerland (March 2007); and the United Kingdom (March 2006). 1325 action plans are about to be launched in Bosnia and Herzegovina, France and Ireland. Please scroll down for links to the European NAPs developed.

In late July 2010 EPLO launched a publication entitled UNSCR 1325 in Europe: 21 case studies of implementation. The publication documents civil society experiences of working on WPS policy and practice in Europe, particularly on national action plans (NAPs) for implementation of UNSCR 1325 and related WPS commitments. Prepared by CSO representatives from across Europe, the 21 studies cover a wide variety of countries and regions in Europe, including countries with and without action plans; new, old and non-EU Member States; and several conflict-affected areas. Click here for the case studies publication.

Click here for the list of civil society recommendations with respect to implementation of SCR 1325, developed during the 7-8 September conference in Brussels.

Table comparing National Action Plans for UNSCR 1325
For a table comparing European NAPs (last updated: 10 September 2009) please click here. The table is a work in progress, so the lack of any document does not always signify the lack of a NAP. If you have a copy of an adopted NAP that is not yet on this site, please contact Sanne Tielemans (EPLO Policy Officer).

The table has been adapted by EPLO from Sherriff, A. and K. Barnes. 2008. Enhancing the EU response to women and armed conflict with particular reference to Development Policy (ECDPM Discussion Paper 84). Maastricht: ECDPM. (pp. 109-111). For the report, please go here.

National Action Plans in Europe:
Currently, 12 National Action Plans (NAPs) for implementation of SCR 1325 have been developed in Europe, of which 9 in EU Member States.

Austria

Belgium (also available in Dutch and in French)

Denmark (1st version: English Summary)

Finland

Iceland

Netherlands

Norway

Portugal  

Spain (in Spanish and French)

Sweden (1st version)

Switzerland

United Kingdom

Additional Information on National Action Plans and 1325
The United Nations International Research and Training Institute for the Advancement of Women (INSTRAW) published "Securing Equality, Engendering Peace: A guide to policy and planning on women, peace and security (UNSCR 1325)" in 2006.