This Conference includes an important emphasis on good governance, and support for human rights. Transparent and accountable political systems represent an important means by which citizens can manage tensions, and resolve difficulties peacefully, in accordance with established rules and procedures. Where institutions, including democratic government, a free press and transparent police and judicial systems, are absent or ineffective, or when states are plagued by corruption and impunity, there is a clear increased risk of political instability, and violence. When individuals lose confidence that they will get justice within the law, they are far more likely to take the law into their own hands. In my view, all of our objectives for peace and security should take into account the role of NGOs, trade unions, the media, women's and youth groups and religious organisations.
Women have a central role to play.
Women are not bystanders in conflict, and neither are they passive victims. When there are religious or ethnic divides, women are seldom neutral. They suffer as refugees, as victims of rape and other terrible abuses of their rights. From Burundi to Cambodia, and from Kosovo to Angola, women understand the need to restructure communities around a vision of peace. Tackling the spread of arms Finally the availability of arms, especially small arms, light weapons and ammunition, is a crucial factor to consider in this debate.