Engaging Women`s Leadership
In Peace and Security in Africa
Betty Sharon
Grace Yeanay
Ilenyo Omiat Esther
Joy 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 persists
Therefore 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 peace
Inspires 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)
Thank you
Questions?