The United States Government is deeply committed to the participation of women in advancing peace and security around the world. Consistent with this commitment, in December 2011, President Obama released the inaugural United States National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS)—a document that has helped chart a course for the United States Government to accelerate, institutionalize, and better coordinate efforts to advance women’s inclusion in peace negotiations, peacebuilding activities, and conflict prevention and response; to protect women and girls from gender-based violence; and to ensure safe, equitable access to relief and recovery assistance in areas of conflict and insecurity. The 2016 updated United States National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security will help the United States Government continue building on this strong foundation.