Engaging Women`s Leadership In Peace and Security in Africa

Betty SharonGrace YeanayIlenyo Omiat EstherJoy Nayiga

Key Issue

“Allowing men who plan wars, to plan peace is a bad habit.”

Christina Posa and Swanee Hunt (2001: 38)

Overview

Many international protocols call for women’s participation:

CEDAW (1979)Beijing Platforms for Action (1995)

UNSCR 1325 (2000) is unique 3 pillars: Prevention, protection and Participation But abysmally low levels of women’s representation in peace processes persistsTherefore the main focus of our policy is on the pillar of Participation

Outcomes of engaging women in Peace and security

Opportunity to become organized that has follow- on effects in other aspects of post-war reconstruction.Increased recognition (among women) that they have unique contributions to make for sustainable peaceInspires women awareness of the political dimensions of conflicts and their own political potential.

Recommendations

UN Women to advocate for all African countries to draft and implement National Action Plans (NAPs) on UNSCR 1325 The African Union’s Executive Council as well as the Peace and Security Council should mandate 30% representation of women in these bodies.At the country level the Ministry responsible for gender must ensure a balanced NAP on USCR is developed, implemented and monitored

Recommendation Continue

Proactive engagement of civil society actors in all phases of drafting, implementation and monitoring of NAPs.

Civil society actors should create public awareness

on 1325

Conclusion

“The principle of gender equality and inclusion are fundamental building blocks for democracy and peace building. Women bring to the peace table their practical understanding of the issues confronting them and their communities. But even more women’s participation in peace processes enhances the legitimacy and sustainability of the processes themselves.”

Dr. Theo-Ben Gurirab, Namibia’s Foreign Affairs Minister (and President of the UN security Council in 2000)

Questions?

Thank you