Statement by H.E. Ambassador YAMAZAKI Kazuyuki, Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the Security Council Open Debate on Women, Peace and Security (WPS)

Thank you, Madam President,

While this year marks the 25th anniversary of the adoption of Security Council Resolution 1325, Japan is deeply concerned by the growing backlash against women’s rights, as highlighted in the Secretary-General’s 2025 report on WPS.　

Women continue to face structural barriers to full, equal, meaningful and safe participation in peacebuilding, conflict prevention, and post-conflict recovery efforts. In this regard, we recognize the importance of the Peacebuilding Commission’s written advice, which offers concrete recommendations to advance the WPS agenda.

Madam President,

In 2025, Japan is honored to serve alongside Norway as co-chair of the WPS Focal Points Network.  In this capacity, Japan co-hosted three meetings, including a side event during the recent High-level Week that demonstrated ministerial-level commitments from all regions. Japan will continue to engage with the Network to foster inclusive dialogue, share best practices, and strengthen international cooperation.

Japan also highlights the importance of addressing emerging challenges such as post-disaster social instability and cybersecurity within the WPS framework. Under Japan’s Third National Action Plan on WPS, women’s participation in disaster preparedness and response is being strengthened in an across-the-government approach and in participation with civil society.　

Furthermore, Japan contributes to enhancing the efforts of WPS national action plans in the Asia-Pacific region. In 2025, Japan has allocated approximately 2 million USD to support the formulation of such plans in the region.

Japan also contributes to the acceleration of the WPS agenda in Africa. Japan supports the AU Commission in enhancing women's engagement in strategic peace platforms and analyzing WPS-related data, with the goal of empowering women in peacebuilding efforts.

Madam President,

Japan has begun implementing initiatives to foster youth leadership in championing WPS. This December, Japan will host the “Gender Next Generation Forum” in Tokyo, contributing to the development of young leaders who will advance the WPS agenda over the next 25 years.

Japan remains deeply committed to ensuring women’s active participation and leadership in all areas of peace and security.

I thank you.