Oman affirmed that empowering women and ensuring their full, effective and safe participation in decision-making and peacebuilding are fundamental pillars for fostering a culture of peace based on justice, equality, dialogue and inclusive participation.

The statement was delivered by Omar Said Omar Alkathiri, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Sultanate of Oman to the United Nations, at a high-level forum on the implementation of the Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace, held under the theme “Women’s Leadership to Promote a Culture of Peace” at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

The Ambassador explained that empowering women in Oman is a national principle rooted in the Basic Statute of the State, which guarantees equality before the law and equal opportunities, as well as Oman Vision 2040 and national policies and plans aimed at enhancing women’s participation in various areas of development and decision-making.

He noted that the National Plan for Omani Women 2026–2030 was developed in partnership with the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA), with the aim of enhancing the alignment of national policies with development priorities and international commitments.

He added that in 2026, Oman took an additional step to strengthen women’s political participation by allocating 11 additional seats for women’s representation in the Shura Council. This will enhance women’s presence in elected councils and their role in shaping public policies and decision-making.

He affirmed that building a sustainable culture of peace requires ensuring women’s effective presence in leadership and decision-making positions. He noted that Oman will continue to support international efforts to empower women and girls and promote dialogue, tolerance and coexistence, based on its belief that sustainable peace is peace in which women participate in its making, protection and consolidation for future generations.