[1] The security council noted reports from the Secretary-General Kofi Annan concerning the situation in Africa and the protection of civilians in armed conflict.

Women, children, refugees and internally displaced persons were particularly the target of violence and this impaired lasting peace and reconciliation.

The council stressed the importance of addressing the issues driving armed conflict around the world and the protection of civilians through economic growth, eradication of poverty, sustainable development, national reconciliation, good governance, democracy, rule of law and respect for human rights.

[5] The importance of safe, secure and unhindered access with freedom of movement for international humanitarian agencies during armed conflict was underlined.

The training of staff and presence of civilian police in peacekeeping operations was stressed, while the destabilising effect of the proliferation of weapons and ammunition was emphasised.