Sustainable Peace! What Peace Without Women?

Sustainable peace is a concept that has become increasingly important in recent years. It refers to a state of peace that is enduring, stable, and long-lasting. The UN Security Council Resolution 2282 adopted on April 27, 2016 emphasized the importance of sustaining peace as a goal and recognized that achieving sustainable peace requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of conflicts. This resolution highlighted the need for collaboration among all stakeholders, including governments, civil society, regional organizations, and the United Nations system, to build and sustain peaceful societies. Therefore, achieving sustainable peace requires the participation and cooperation of all members of society, including women. Women have a critical role to play in the peacebuilding process, and without their involvement, sustainable peace may be elusive.

Women's Participation in Peacebuilding

The participation of women in peacebuilding is essential for several reasons. Firstly, women are often the primary victims of conflict and violence. They are disproportionately affected by displacement, sexual violence, and other forms of harm. As such, they have a unique perspective on the impact of conflict and the needs of those affected by it.

Secondly, women bring a different set of skills and experiences to peacebuilding. They are often adept at building relationships and fostering trust, which are critical elements of successful peacebuilding efforts. They are also more likely to prioritize issues such as human rights, justice, and social equality, which are crucial for sustainable peace. During Liberia's civil war, which lasted from 1989 to 2003, women played a crucial role in bringing an end to the conflict. In 2003, a group of women organized a peace march in Monrovia, the capital of Liberia, calling for an end to the war and the inclusion of women in the peace process. The women, who came to be known as the Women of Liberia Mass Action for Peace, marched to the Presidential Palace and camped outside until their demands were heard.

Finally, women's participation in peacebuilding can lead to more inclusive and representative decision-making processes. When women are involved in peace negotiations and other peacebuilding efforts, they bring diverse perspectives and priorities to the table. This can help to ensure that the needs and interests of all members of society are taken into account, rather than just those of a particular group or faction.

Challenges to Women's Participation in Peacebuilding

Despite the critical role that women play in peacebuilding, they often face significant barriers to participation. In many societies, women are excluded from decision-making processes, and their voices are not heard. They may also face violence and harassment if they speak out or try to take a leadership role.

In addition, women's participation in peacebuilding can be limited by structural barriers such as poverty, illiteracy, and lack of access to resources. These factors can make it difficult for women to participate fully in peacebuilding efforts, even if they are willing and able to do so.

The Importance of Gender-Sensitive Approaches to Peacebuilding

To ensure that women can participate fully in peacebuilding efforts, it is essential to adopt gender-sensitive approaches. This means recognizing and addressing the specific needs and priorities of women in conflict-affected communities. It also means creating spaces and opportunities for women to participate in decision-making processes and peacebuilding efforts.

Gender-sensitive approaches to peacebuilding should also address the root causes of gender inequality and violence against women. This includes promoting women's economic empowerment, addressing harmful gender norms and stereotypes, and providing support and services for survivors of gender-based violence.

Conclusion

In conclusion sustainable peace is a goal that requires the participation and cooperation of all members of society, including women. Women's participation in peacebuilding is critical for ensuring that peace is enduring, stable, and long-lasting. However, women often face significant barriers to participation, including violence, harassment, and structural inequalities. To overcome these challenges, it is essential to adopt gender-sensitive approaches to peacebuilding that address the specific needs and priorities of women in conflict-affected communities. Only by working together and ensuring that all voices are heard can we achieve sustainable peace for all.

 

By Agnes Mashonganyika

MA International Relations

 

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this writing are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent.