China's peacekeepers, the largest contingent from the permanent UN Security Council members, began a landmark training program in Beijing on Wednesday to better protect women and children in countries torn apart by conflict.

China's Peacekeeping Affairs Office and UN Women, a global organization dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women, are co-hosting the three-day program. Ten of the 35 trainees, mostly frontline peacekeepers and commanders, are women.

Women comprise 49 percent of refugees worldwide, and often face greater risks than men. "UN Women has made great contributions to the protection of civilians via peacekeeping cooperation, notably in addressing sexual exploitation and abuse," said Zhang Li, vice-director of the Peacekeeping Affairs Office.