The situation in Mali continues to be unstable and insecure in both the north and south of the country. Reports continue of rape and abduction, particularly of women and girls, by armed groups in the north. Political instability and violence continues in the capital. In its discussions regarding the situation in Mali and during the briefing by the Secretary-General on the integrated UN strategy on the Sahel, the Security Council should ensure it supports and promotes the full engagement of women in ongoing efforts for peaceful resolution in both areas of the country, and should ensure it enquires into and takes action on the specific rights and protection concerns of women. The Council should urge all parties to the conflict to immediately issue orders prohibiting mistreatment of persons in custody and prohibiting rape, pillage, and other violations of international humanitarian law, and should support monitoring and investigation of all human rights abuses.