Phnom Penh (FN), May 20 – Monita An, a distinguished young leader from Cambodia, had the opportunity to speak at a United Nations meeting on the topic of 'No Peace Without Women' and highlighted Cambodia's image and nation-building efforts at the summit.

Monita An, a Cambodian student who graduated from a prestigious university in Switzerland and earned numerous degrees and diplomas through her abilities, has participated in major international forums and conferences in the past. As one of Cambodia's prides, this remarkable young woman has demonstrated to world leaders the progress and leadership of the Cambodian government under the peace fostered by the Royal Government.

Once again, Monita An attended a UN meeting, where she stood before world leaders and relevant foreign officials. In her speech, this impressive young Cambodian woman underlined the crucial role of women in peacebuilding.

Monita An stated that the absence of women from peace talks weakens their sustainability. Including women isn't just about equality; it brings valuable perspectives and strategies.
The UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security marked a crucial step towards recognizing women's role.

Monita An underscored, "Peace begins at home,". In this phrase, she highlighted that peace begins not just with global leaders, but within the hearts of families. Imagine peace not as a distant dream, but as a seed planted within the heart of every family. This seed is nurtured by the unwavering love and compassion of a mother. Mothers are the architects of our values, the weavers of strong family bonds, and the inspiring role models who teach us empathy and cooperation. From this foundation of love, peaceful relationships blossom, and a sense of social responsibility takes root. Empowering mothers isn't just about fairness, it's about empowering the very foundation of peace itself. When we invest in mothers, we cultivate a generation of peacemakers, one nurturing family at a time. Let peace begin with the woman who holds the future in her arms – our mother."

She continued that the Cambodian women who endured the Khmer Rouge era are leading the charge in reconciliation efforts. Organizations like Cambodia Women Crisis Center are vital in advocating for women's participation in peacebuilding. Cambodian women have taken on critical roles, fostering economic development, community healing, and advocating for justice.

"Women's involvement in peacebuilding helps prevent future conflicts by fostering a culture of peace and understanding. Cambodia ranks first among ASEAN countries and 13th out of 120 countries in sending women soldiers on UN peacekeeping operations," Monita An further underscored.

At the same time, Monita An also raised that the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals provide a framework to address global issues like poverty, inequality, and climate change. By aligning our efforts with the SDGs, we can create a more just and sustainable world

As for empowering young women, she shared that cultural norms often confine young women to domestic roles, limiting their potential. We must break free from these stereotypes and empower them. Young women possess unique perspectives, experiences, and the potential to drive positive change. Their voices are vital for inclusive policies, social cohesion, and addressing the root causes of conflict.

"By encouraging young women to participate in peacebuilding, we unlock a wealth of creativity and resilience needed for a peaceful and prosperous Cambodia," she stated.

At the end of her speech,​​ Monita An also underlined that true peace encompasses social, economic, and political aspects, requiring diverse voices to be fully realized. Young women, with their passion and vision for a brighter future, are key agents of change. By empowering them through education, activism, and leadership roles, we can champion gender equality, create a society where peace flourishes, and ensure opportunities for all.

Monita An underscored, "My presence here, and the countless young women actively shaping a better future, serve as a reminder: there can be no peace without women. Each of us has the power to contribute to this collective effort. Let's engage in open dialogue with people of different backgrounds and beliefs. Advocate for peaceful solutions in our communities and support organizations working towards peace. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to a more peaceful world. Remember, you are not alone. Countless individuals and organizations, including young women around the world, are actively working for peace. Together, through collaboration and action, we can make a difference. Let us carry this momentum forward, continuing to work collaboratively for a more peaceful future."

It should be noted that on 28 March 2024, Monita An, a distinguished young leader from Cambodia, has been appointed as a Youth Ambassador for Peace and attended discussions during the Human Rights Council meeting at the United Nations in Geneva.

Monita An's selection marks a historic milestone for Cambodia as she becomes the first youth representative from the nation to participate in a Human Rights Council meeting at the United Nations. Her involvement underscores the international community's recognition of the valuable perspectives young voices bring to global dialogues on peace, development, and human rights.
=FRESH NEWS