A resolution is a formal expression of the opinion or will of a UN organ. Generally, they include two clearly defined parts: a preamble that recites considerations on which the organ is acting and an operative part that outlines a specific course of action to be taken.
Resolutions are the primary tools for discussing issues at the United Nations. They are the only document that can bind Member States by providing a mandate to take a specific set of steps. Resolutions can also establish sanctions, authorize peacekeeping operations and authorize the use of force by the United Nations.
This resolution called for an international civil and security presence in Kosovo, authorized the Secretary-General to delegate tasks to this international presence and requested the Secretary-General to keep the Council informed on its progress. It also welcomed the Rambouillet Agreement and reaffirmed calls for a political solution to Kosovo’s status based on the will of the people, substantial autonomy and meaningful self-administration.
This resolution endorsed the Women, Peace and Security agenda of the United Nations and requested that all UN agencies and entities incorporate gender perspectives into their work, including integrating a human rights perspective into all programmes and activities. It was the first resolution adopted by the Security Council in the context of 1325 and established a series of indicators for monitoring progress towards the achievement of the agenda. The indicators remain in place and are reported on annually in the Secretary-General’s annual report on the implementation of 1325.
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