Sierra Leone Calls for Bold Action on Women, Peace, and Security at UN Security Council Debate.

At the United Nations Security Council Open Debate on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS), held under the theme “Women Building Peace in a Changing Environment,” the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, delivered a compelling statement on behalf of the Government of Sierra Leone.

She urged the global community to move beyond symbolic gestures and commit to transformative action that meaningfully advances the WPS agenda.

As the world commemorates the 25th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325, Dr. Mahoi underscored that, despite notable progress, women continue to bear the disproportionate impacts of conflict and restrictive policies. Their participation in peace processes she added, is essential for achieving lasting peace remains limited..

“Sierra Leone believes our actions must go beyond symbolism,” she stated. “We must confront the structural barriers that exclude women and perpetuate cycles of violence.” Dr Mahoi went on to state.

Dr. Mahoi outlined three strategic priorities for strengthening the Women, Peace, and Security agenda; these she said are:

Centering Protection in Peacekeeping: The protection of women and girls from violence, particularly sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), must remain central to peacekeeping mandates. This includes integrating WPS principles across all peacekeeping operations, political missions, and transitional processes.

 Inclusive Peace Processes: Sustainable peace requires inclusive solutions. Women’s meaningful participation must be embedded at every stage of peacebuilding, informed by a deep understanding of conflict dynamics and local realities;

Accountability and Survivors’ Rights: The Security Council must continue to champion the WPS agenda by strengthening accountability mechanisms for survivors. This entails reinforcing legal frameworks and ensuring justice systems are both responsive and survivor-centered.

Highlighting Sierra Leone’s leadership, Dr. Mahoi noted that the country is the first African nation to co-chair the Security Council Informal Expert Group on WPS.

She reaffirmed government’s unwavering commitment to gender equality as a cornerstone of peace and development, citing the adoption of three National Action Plans on WPS and ongoing legislative reforms.

“Our journey is one of resilience and resolve,” she concluded. “We are investing in women not just as beneficiaries of peace, but as architects of it.”

Dr. Mahoi’s address received strong support from member states and civil society representatives, further reinforcing Sierra Leone’s position as a regional leader in promoting inclusive peace and gender-responsive governance.

MoGCA Communications Unit

Mkelson367@gmail.com