Policy Recommendation: Applying Global Tools to Improve National Action Plans on UNSCR 1325

National action plans (NAPs) are one of the key strategies for realizing the objectives of UN Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325. Despite increased emphasis on the importance of NAPs in recent years, major challenges remain. NAPs are typically implemented over the course of three to five years, making it difficult to sustain impact over the long term. Fortunately, in 2015, new global policy tools have emerged that can increase the effectiveness of national action plans, such as UNSCR 2242, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Convention to End All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) General Recommendation 30. This policy recommendation aims to help policymakers and practitioners leverage these international frameworks to increase women’s inclusion in decision making about peace and security.