Partner News

The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), together with the Community of Democracies and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), will launch the Inter-Regional Report on Gender Equality and Political Empowerment of Women on 5 December 2017, in Brussels, Belgium.

Gender Equality and the Political Empowerment of Women are key elements for the consolidation of sustainable democracies worldwide, and global and regional organizations play a key role in the development of legal and policy frameworks, as well as in the design of effective action plans that incorporate inputs from key stakeholders, to better support their membership in the advancement of the gender-equality agenda at the global, regional, national and global levels.

This report highlights the role of regional organizations in supporting their membership on the operationalization and follow-up of key instruments such as, among others, the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW); the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action; African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights; European Convention on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms; the Inter-American Convention on the Prevention, Punishment, and Eradication of Violence against Women; and, more recently, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and the Sustainable Development Goals, which has the overall objective within Goal 5 to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.

This publication has the aim of gathering and analyzing the main instruments that are currently in place at the global and regional levels, highlighting the challenges, opportunities and successes that each organization has encounter in the implementation within their respective regions. This report also offers policy recommendations based on the overall analysis at the institutional level, but also recommendations that resulted from a multidimensional regional consultation process that gathered governments, civil society organizations, specialized agencies, experts and citizens.

International IDEA, jointly with the partner organizations, proposes this report as an instrument to inform policymakers and relevant actors in the field on what is the current situation of gender equality, what has been done in terms of the political empowerment of women, and what is expected from the global community in order to successfully advance and achieve Goal 5 by 2030, and ultimately guarantee democratic, inclusive, safe and stable societies worldwide.

This initiative has been developed as part of the Inter-Regional Dialogue on Democracy (IRDD) of International IDEA, which is a unique platform that gathers the main regional organizations to discuss issues related to democracy, exchange best practices and develop synergies for further cooperation. Currently, member of the IRDD are the African Union Commission, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, the Council of Europe, the European Union, the League of Arab States, the Organization of American States, the Pacific Islands Forum, and the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation. The Community of Democracies and the United Nations are global partners of the IRDD.

The production and the launch of this publication is made possible, thanks to a generous contribution from the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR) of the European Commission.

PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS/COLLABORATORS: 

The Community of Democracies, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR) of the European Commission

RSVP/CONTACTS: 

Please send an email to EEPRES.CFSP.permrep@mfa.ee by Friday, 1 December 2017, 17:00.

Source: International IDEA

The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), together with the Community of Democracies and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), will launch the Inter-Regional Report on Gender Equality and Political Empowerment of Women on 5 December 2017, in Brussels, Belgium.

Gender Equality and the Political Empowerment of Women are key elements for the consolidation of sustainable democracies worldwide, and global and regional organizations play a key role in the development of legal and policy frameworks, as well as in the design of effective action plans that incorporate inputs from key stakeholders, to better support their membership in the advancement of the gender-equality agenda at the global, regional, national and global levels.

This report highlights the role of regional organizations in supporting their membership on the operationalization and follow-up of key instruments such as, among others, the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW); the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action; African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights; European Convention on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms; the Inter-American Convention on the Prevention, Punishment, and Eradication of Violence against Women; and, more recently, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and the Sustainable Development Goals, which has the overall objective within Goal 5 to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.

This publication has the aim of gathering and analyzing the main instruments that are currently in place at the global and regional levels, highlighting the challenges, opportunities and successes that each organization has encounter in the implementation within their respective regions. This report also offers policy recommendations based on the overall analysis at the institutional level, but also recommendations that resulted from a multidimensional regional consultation process that gathered governments, civil society organizations, specialized agencies, experts and citizens.

International IDEA, jointly with the partner organizations, proposes this report as an instrument to inform policymakers and relevant actors in the field on what is the current situation of gender equality, what has been done in terms of the political empowerment of women, and what is expected from the global community in order to successfully advance and achieve Goal 5 by 2030, and ultimately guarantee democratic, inclusive, safe and stable societies worldwide.

This initiative has been developed as part of the Inter-Regional Dialogue on Democracy (IRDD) of International IDEA, which is a unique platform that gathers the main regional organizations to discuss issues related to democracy, exchange best practices and develop synergies for further cooperation. Currently, member of the IRDD are the African Union Commission, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, the Council of Europe, the European Union, the League of Arab States, the Organization of American States, the Pacific Islands Forum, and the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation. The Community of Democracies and the United Nations are global partners of the IRDD.

The production and the launch of this publication is made possible, thanks to a generous contribution from the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR) of the European Commission.

PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS/COLLABORATORS: 

The Community of Democracies, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR) of the European Commission

RSVP/CONTACTS: 

Please send an email to EEPRES.CFSP.permrep@mfa.ee by Friday, 1 December 2017, 17:00.

Source: International IDEA

The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), together with the Community of Democracies and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), will launch the Inter-Regional Report on Gender Equality and Political Empowerment of Women on 5 December 2017, in Brussels, Belgium.

Gender Equality and the Political Empowerment of Women are key elements for the consolidation of sustainable democracies worldwide, and global and regional organizations play a key role in the development of legal and policy frameworks, as well as in the design of effective action plans that incorporate inputs from key stakeholders, to better support their membership in the advancement of the gender-equality agenda at the global, regional, national and global levels.

This report highlights the role of regional organizations in supporting their membership on the operationalization and follow-up of key instruments such as, among others, the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW); the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action; African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights; European Convention on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms; the Inter-American Convention on the Prevention, Punishment, and Eradication of Violence against Women; and, more recently, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and the Sustainable Development Goals, which has the overall objective within Goal 5 to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.

This publication has the aim of gathering and analyzing the main instruments that are currently in place at the global and regional levels, highlighting the challenges, opportunities and successes that each organization has encounter in the implementation within their respective regions. This report also offers policy recommendations based on the overall analysis at the institutional level, but also recommendations that resulted from a multidimensional regional consultation process that gathered governments, civil society organizations, specialized agencies, experts and citizens.

International IDEA, jointly with the partner organizations, proposes this report as an instrument to inform policymakers and relevant actors in the field on what is the current situation of gender equality, what has been done in terms of the political empowerment of women, and what is expected from the global community in order to successfully advance and achieve Goal 5 by 2030, and ultimately guarantee democratic, inclusive, safe and stable societies worldwide.

This initiative has been developed as part of the Inter-Regional Dialogue on Democracy (IRDD) of International IDEA, which is a unique platform that gathers the main regional organizations to discuss issues related to democracy, exchange best practices and develop synergies for further cooperation. Currently, member of the IRDD are the African Union Commission, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, the Council of Europe, the European Union, the League of Arab States, the Organization of American States, the Pacific Islands Forum, and the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation. The Community of Democracies and the United Nations are global partners of the IRDD.

The production and the launch of this publication is made possible, thanks to a generous contribution from the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR) of the European Commission.

PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS/COLLABORATORS: 

The Community of Democracies, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR) of the European Commission

RSVP/CONTACTS: 

Please send an email to EEPRES.CFSP.permrep@mfa.ee by Friday, 1 December 2017, 17:00.

Source: International IDEA

The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), together with the Community of Democracies and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), will launch the Inter-Regional Report on Gender Equality and Political Empowerment of Women on 5 December 2017, in Brussels, Belgium.

Gender Equality and the Political Empowerment of Women are key elements for the consolidation of sustainable democracies worldwide, and global and regional organizations play a key role in the development of legal and policy frameworks, as well as in the design of effective action plans that incorporate inputs from key stakeholders, to better support their membership in the advancement of the gender-equality agenda at the global, regional, national and global levels.

This report highlights the role of regional organizations in supporting their membership on the operationalization and follow-up of key instruments such as, among others, the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW); the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action; African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights; European Convention on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms; the Inter-American Convention on the Prevention, Punishment, and Eradication of Violence against Women; and, more recently, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and the Sustainable Development Goals, which has the overall objective within Goal 5 to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.

This publication has the aim of gathering and analyzing the main instruments that are currently in place at the global and regional levels, highlighting the challenges, opportunities and successes that each organization has encounter in the implementation within their respective regions. This report also offers policy recommendations based on the overall analysis at the institutional level, but also recommendations that resulted from a multidimensional regional consultation process that gathered governments, civil society organizations, specialized agencies, experts and citizens.

International IDEA, jointly with the partner organizations, proposes this report as an instrument to inform policymakers and relevant actors in the field on what is the current situation of gender equality, what has been done in terms of the political empowerment of women, and what is expected from the global community in order to successfully advance and achieve Goal 5 by 2030, and ultimately guarantee democratic, inclusive, safe and stable societies worldwide.

This initiative has been developed as part of the Inter-Regional Dialogue on Democracy (IRDD) of International IDEA, which is a unique platform that gathers the main regional organizations to discuss issues related to democracy, exchange best practices and develop synergies for further cooperation. Currently, member of the IRDD are the African Union Commission, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, the Council of Europe, the European Union, the League of Arab States, the Organization of American States, the Pacific Islands Forum, and the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation. The Community of Democracies and the United Nations are global partners of the IRDD.

The production and the launch of this publication is made possible, thanks to a generous contribution from the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR) of the European Commission.

PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS/COLLABORATORS: 

The Community of Democracies, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR) of the European Commission

RSVP/CONTACTS: 

Please send an email to EEPRES.CFSP.permrep@mfa.ee by Friday, 1 December 2017, 17:00.

Source: International IDEA

The IPU hails the appointment of four women as members of the Shura Council of Qatar, the country’s Parliament. This is the first time that women will sit on the Shura Council, which is responsible for examining government policy, drafting laws and reviewing the state budget. 

However, it is not the first time that Qatari women have entered politics. Two women were elected at the municipal council level: Shaikha Al Jufairi was the first in 2003 and was joined in 2015 by Fatima Al Kuwari. 

The four women were among 28 new members appointed by Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. They are Hind Abdul Rahman al-Muftah, Hessa Sultan al-Jaber, Reem al-Mansoori and Aisha Yousef al-Mannai. Ms. Al-Jaber, who was the third woman to be appointed to the cabinet, has served as Minister of Information and Communications Technology since 2013. 

“The IPU feels strongly that involving women in decision-making is vital to democracy and development,” said IPU Secretary General Martin Chungong. He added that the admission of women to Qatar’s Parliament was a big step towards more inclusive decision-making.

Source: IPU

The IPU hails the appointment of four women as members of the Shura Council of Qatar, the country’s Parliament. This is the first time that women will sit on the Shura Council, which is responsible for examining government policy, drafting laws and reviewing the state budget. 

However, it is not the first time that Qatari women have entered politics. Two women were elected at the municipal council level: Shaikha Al Jufairi was the first in 2003 and was joined in 2015 by Fatima Al Kuwari. 

The four women were among 28 new members appointed by Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. They are Hind Abdul Rahman al-Muftah, Hessa Sultan al-Jaber, Reem al-Mansoori and Aisha Yousef al-Mannai. Ms. Al-Jaber, who was the third woman to be appointed to the cabinet, has served as Minister of Information and Communications Technology since 2013. 

“The IPU feels strongly that involving women in decision-making is vital to democracy and development,” said IPU Secretary General Martin Chungong. He added that the admission of women to Qatar’s Parliament was a big step towards more inclusive decision-making.

Source: IPU

The IPU hails the appointment of four women as members of the Shura Council of Qatar, the country’s Parliament. This is the first time that women will sit on the Shura Council, which is responsible for examining government policy, drafting laws and reviewing the state budget. 

However, it is not the first time that Qatari women have entered politics. Two women were elected at the municipal council level: Shaikha Al Jufairi was the first in 2003 and was joined in 2015 by Fatima Al Kuwari. 

The four women were among 28 new members appointed by Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. They are Hind Abdul Rahman al-Muftah, Hessa Sultan al-Jaber, Reem al-Mansoori and Aisha Yousef al-Mannai. Ms. Al-Jaber, who was the third woman to be appointed to the cabinet, has served as Minister of Information and Communications Technology since 2013. 

“The IPU feels strongly that involving women in decision-making is vital to democracy and development,” said IPU Secretary General Martin Chungong. He added that the admission of women to Qatar’s Parliament was a big step towards more inclusive decision-making.

Source: IPU

The IPU hails the appointment of four women as members of the Shura Council of Qatar, the country’s Parliament. This is the first time that women will sit on the Shura Council, which is responsible for examining government policy, drafting laws and reviewing the state budget. 

However, it is not the first time that Qatari women have entered politics. Two women were elected at the municipal council level: Shaikha Al Jufairi was the first in 2003 and was joined in 2015 by Fatima Al Kuwari. 

The four women were among 28 new members appointed by Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. They are Hind Abdul Rahman al-Muftah, Hessa Sultan al-Jaber, Reem al-Mansoori and Aisha Yousef al-Mannai. Ms. Al-Jaber, who was the third woman to be appointed to the cabinet, has served as Minister of Information and Communications Technology since 2013. 

“The IPU feels strongly that involving women in decision-making is vital to democracy and development,” said IPU Secretary General Martin Chungong. He added that the admission of women to Qatar’s Parliament was a big step towards more inclusive decision-making.

Source: IPU

The IPU hails the appointment of four women as members of the Shura Council of Qatar, the country’s Parliament. This is the first time that women will sit on the Shura Council, which is responsible for examining government policy, drafting laws and reviewing the state budget. 

However, it is not the first time that Qatari women have entered politics. Two women were elected at the municipal council level: Shaikha Al Jufairi was the first in 2003 and was joined in 2015 by Fatima Al Kuwari. 

The four women were among 28 new members appointed by Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. They are Hind Abdul Rahman al-Muftah, Hessa Sultan al-Jaber, Reem al-Mansoori and Aisha Yousef al-Mannai. Ms. Al-Jaber, who was the third woman to be appointed to the cabinet, has served as Minister of Information and Communications Technology since 2013. 

“The IPU feels strongly that involving women in decision-making is vital to democracy and development,” said IPU Secretary General Martin Chungong. He added that the admission of women to Qatar’s Parliament was a big step towards more inclusive decision-making.

Source: IPU

The IPU hails the appointment of four women as members of the Shura Council of Qatar, the country’s Parliament. This is the first time that women will sit on the Shura Council, which is responsible for examining government policy, drafting laws and reviewing the state budget. 

However, it is not the first time that Qatari women have entered politics. Two women were elected at the municipal council level: Shaikha Al Jufairi was the first in 2003 and was joined in 2015 by Fatima Al Kuwari. 

The four women were among 28 new members appointed by Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. They are Hind Abdul Rahman al-Muftah, Hessa Sultan al-Jaber, Reem al-Mansoori and Aisha Yousef al-Mannai. Ms. Al-Jaber, who was the third woman to be appointed to the cabinet, has served as Minister of Information and Communications Technology since 2013. 

“The IPU feels strongly that involving women in decision-making is vital to democracy and development,” said IPU Secretary General Martin Chungong. He added that the admission of women to Qatar’s Parliament was a big step towards more inclusive decision-making.

Source: IPU

The IPU hails the appointment of four women as members of the Shura Council of Qatar, the country’s Parliament. This is the first time that women will sit on the Shura Council, which is responsible for examining government policy, drafting laws and reviewing the state budget. 

However, it is not the first time that Qatari women have entered politics. Two women were elected at the municipal council level: Shaikha Al Jufairi was the first in 2003 and was joined in 2015 by Fatima Al Kuwari. 

The four women were among 28 new members appointed by Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. They are Hind Abdul Rahman al-Muftah, Hessa Sultan al-Jaber, Reem al-Mansoori and Aisha Yousef al-Mannai. Ms. Al-Jaber, who was the third woman to be appointed to the cabinet, has served as Minister of Information and Communications Technology since 2013. 

“The IPU feels strongly that involving women in decision-making is vital to democracy and development,” said IPU Secretary General Martin Chungong. He added that the admission of women to Qatar’s Parliament was a big step towards more inclusive decision-making.

Source: IPU

The IPU hails the appointment of four women as members of the Shura Council of Qatar, the country’s Parliament. This is the first time that women will sit on the Shura Council, which is responsible for examining government policy, drafting laws and reviewing the state budget. 

However, it is not the first time that Qatari women have entered politics. Two women were elected at the municipal council level: Shaikha Al Jufairi was the first in 2003 and was joined in 2015 by Fatima Al Kuwari. 

The four women were among 28 new members appointed by Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. They are Hind Abdul Rahman al-Muftah, Hessa Sultan al-Jaber, Reem al-Mansoori and Aisha Yousef al-Mannai. Ms. Al-Jaber, who was the third woman to be appointed to the cabinet, has served as Minister of Information and Communications Technology since 2013. 

“The IPU feels strongly that involving women in decision-making is vital to democracy and development,” said IPU Secretary General Martin Chungong. He added that the admission of women to Qatar’s Parliament was a big step towards more inclusive decision-making.

Source: IPU

The IPU hails the appointment of four women as members of the Shura Council of Qatar, the country’s Parliament. This is the first time that women will sit on the Shura Council, which is responsible for examining government policy, drafting laws and reviewing the state budget. 

However, it is not the first time that Qatari women have entered politics. Two women were elected at the municipal council level: Shaikha Al Jufairi was the first in 2003 and was joined in 2015 by Fatima Al Kuwari. 

The four women were among 28 new members appointed by Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. They are Hind Abdul Rahman al-Muftah, Hessa Sultan al-Jaber, Reem al-Mansoori and Aisha Yousef al-Mannai. Ms. Al-Jaber, who was the third woman to be appointed to the cabinet, has served as Minister of Information and Communications Technology since 2013. 

“The IPU feels strongly that involving women in decision-making is vital to democracy and development,” said IPU Secretary General Martin Chungong. He added that the admission of women to Qatar’s Parliament was a big step towards more inclusive decision-making.

Source: IPU

The IPU hails the appointment of four women as members of the Shura Council of Qatar, the country’s Parliament. This is the first time that women will sit on the Shura Council, which is responsible for examining government policy, drafting laws and reviewing the state budget. 

However, it is not the first time that Qatari women have entered politics. Two women were elected at the municipal council level: Shaikha Al Jufairi was the first in 2003 and was joined in 2015 by Fatima Al Kuwari. 

The four women were among 28 new members appointed by Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. They are Hind Abdul Rahman al-Muftah, Hessa Sultan al-Jaber, Reem al-Mansoori and Aisha Yousef al-Mannai. Ms. Al-Jaber, who was the third woman to be appointed to the cabinet, has served as Minister of Information and Communications Technology since 2013. 

“The IPU feels strongly that involving women in decision-making is vital to democracy and development,” said IPU Secretary General Martin Chungong. He added that the admission of women to Qatar’s Parliament was a big step towards more inclusive decision-making.

Source: IPU

The IPU hails the appointment of four women as members of the Shura Council of Qatar, the country’s Parliament. This is the first time that women will sit on the Shura Council, which is responsible for examining government policy, drafting laws and reviewing the state budget. 

However, it is not the first time that Qatari women have entered politics. Two women were elected at the municipal council level: Shaikha Al Jufairi was the first in 2003 and was joined in 2015 by Fatima Al Kuwari. 

The four women were among 28 new members appointed by Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. They are Hind Abdul Rahman al-Muftah, Hessa Sultan al-Jaber, Reem al-Mansoori and Aisha Yousef al-Mannai. Ms. Al-Jaber, who was the third woman to be appointed to the cabinet, has served as Minister of Information and Communications Technology since 2013. 

“The IPU feels strongly that involving women in decision-making is vital to democracy and development,” said IPU Secretary General Martin Chungong. He added that the admission of women to Qatar’s Parliament was a big step towards more inclusive decision-making.

Source: IPU

The IPU hails the appointment of four women as members of the Shura Council of Qatar, the country’s Parliament. This is the first time that women will sit on the Shura Council, which is responsible for examining government policy, drafting laws and reviewing the state budget. 

However, it is not the first time that Qatari women have entered politics. Two women were elected at the municipal council level: Shaikha Al Jufairi was the first in 2003 and was joined in 2015 by Fatima Al Kuwari. 

The four women were among 28 new members appointed by Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. They are Hind Abdul Rahman al-Muftah, Hessa Sultan al-Jaber, Reem al-Mansoori and Aisha Yousef al-Mannai. Ms. Al-Jaber, who was the third woman to be appointed to the cabinet, has served as Minister of Information and Communications Technology since 2013. 

“The IPU feels strongly that involving women in decision-making is vital to democracy and development,” said IPU Secretary General Martin Chungong. He added that the admission of women to Qatar’s Parliament was a big step towards more inclusive decision-making.

Source: IPU

On 25 October, women leaders and experts gathered at the UN Headquarters to discuss issues of masculinities, violence against women, and women’s participation in peace and justice in transitional societies. With 2 billion people across 35 countries and territories affected by fragility, conflict and violence, women’s active participation and leadership in preventing conflict and sustaining peace is critical.

The side event, co-organized by UN Women, Impunity Watch and Oxfam IBIS, with the support of the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the United Nations, marked the 17thanniversary of the adoption of the UN Security Council resolution 1325, which recognized for the first time the role of women’s leadership in international peace and security.

Panellists reflected on women’s exclusion from leadership and the role of masculinities in perpetuating gender-based violence against women, drawing upon case studies from Burundi and Guatemala.

“When we talk about gender equality, and women, peace and security, the engagement of boys and men is crucial and without their engagement we cannot implement the 1325 agenda” shared Lise Gregoire-van Haaren, Netherlands Ambassador to the United Nations.

"It is very important to protect women leaders who protect human rights," added Paivi Kannisto, Chief of Peace and Security of UN Women, kicking off the panel discussion. “Men must listen to stories of women leaders to understand how to work in solidarity with them, they must be front and center of the work we do around the world.”

Systematic sexual and gender-based violence against women during conflicts leave lasting impacts on societies in transition, where patterns of such violence continue to be reproduced, and women’s leadership is constantly undermined.

In both Guatemala and Burundi, armed conflicts have left a legacy of impunity for gender-based violence. Panellists presented findings from recent research on the status of women’s leadership in both countries and the challenges that women leaders grapple with.

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In Guatemala, women make up only 38 per cent of the judiciary and they routinely face discrimination. Some have even experienced attacks. Yassmin Barrios, Presiding judge in the landmark Guatemala genocide and Sepur Zarco cases, is a prime example.

“Judges, both men and women, should be leaders in our workplaces and agents of change to strengthen the rule of law and guarantee the rights of all other citizens,” said Barrios. “No power should interfere in the exercise of justice.”

More than two decades after the signing of the historic 1996 Peace Accords, violence against women is still normalized and leadership is associated with men. “Women are not expected to occupy important positions,” added Judge Barrios, who has been threatened with violence and intimidation multiple times. “Even when they don’t threaten you physically, they try to undermine women’s authority by saying that we are not qualified or capable. After the genocide and Sepur Zarco cases, the work load in my court diminished…these are subtle ways of undermining our work.”

Similarly, in Burundi, where women pushed for inclusion in the peace process, the promises of gender equality have not translated into women having real influence on decision-making. Although the law sets a 30 per cent female participation quota in elected and nominated public bodies, women are not considered key political partners.

“It means that in terms of presence, even though women get into negotiations, the influence of women is limited by socio-economic constraints,” said Messina Lauretta Manirakisa from Impunity Watch, Burundi. Since men are perceived as leaders, while women are expected to focus at home or on social issues, even when women participate in politics, they have challenges finding resources for campaigning or balancing their role at work and at home. Without addressing masculinities, it is impossible to secure meaningful participation of women, suggested Manirakiza.

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“Women must understand their political role in society,” said Goretti Ndacayisaba, who leads the organization Dushirehamwe in Burundi. “We try to make sure that both men and women learn about the laws and talk to each other—it’s the best way to fight negative masculinities.”

“Once women are economically powerful, have the space to express themselves and a social and political role in the community, there is no doubt that the issues of peace and security will be effected,” Goretti added.

The experiences shared at the event resonate with the findings of the Global Study on the Implementation of UNSCR 1325 (2015), which highlighted strategies to enhance women’s participation and leadership within public institutions and peace processes, as well as investment in engaging men to foster non-violent expressions of masculinity.

For peace to be meaningful for women and men alike, a transformative approach that tackles underlying drivers, rather than symptoms, is needed. “If we are not protecting women and their rights, we’re not addressing the obstacles to their participation,” said Nahla Valji, Senior Gender Adviser to the UN Secretary-General, in conclusion.

“We cannot abandon the spaces [that] women have fought to gain,” added Judge Yassmin Barrios.

Source: UN Women

On 25 October, women leaders and experts gathered at the UN Headquarters to discuss issues of masculinities, violence against women, and women’s participation in peace and justice in transitional societies. With 2 billion people across 35 countries and territories affected by fragility, conflict and violence, women’s active participation and leadership in preventing conflict and sustaining peace is critical.

The side event, co-organized by UN Women, Impunity Watch and Oxfam IBIS, with the support of the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the United Nations, marked the 17thanniversary of the adoption of the UN Security Council resolution 1325, which recognized for the first time the role of women’s leadership in international peace and security.

Panellists reflected on women’s exclusion from leadership and the role of masculinities in perpetuating gender-based violence against women, drawing upon case studies from Burundi and Guatemala.

“When we talk about gender equality, and women, peace and security, the engagement of boys and men is crucial and without their engagement we cannot implement the 1325 agenda” shared Lise Gregoire-van Haaren, Netherlands Ambassador to the United Nations.

"It is very important to protect women leaders who protect human rights," added Paivi Kannisto, Chief of Peace and Security of UN Women, kicking off the panel discussion. “Men must listen to stories of women leaders to understand how to work in solidarity with them, they must be front and center of the work we do around the world.”

Systematic sexual and gender-based violence against women during conflicts leave lasting impacts on societies in transition, where patterns of such violence continue to be reproduced, and women’s leadership is constantly undermined.

In both Guatemala and Burundi, armed conflicts have left a legacy of impunity for gender-based violence. Panellists presented findings from recent research on the status of women’s leadership in both countries and the challenges that women leaders grapple with.

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In Guatemala, women make up only 38 per cent of the judiciary and they routinely face discrimination. Some have even experienced attacks. Yassmin Barrios, Presiding judge in the landmark Guatemala genocide and Sepur Zarco cases, is a prime example.

“Judges, both men and women, should be leaders in our workplaces and agents of change to strengthen the rule of law and guarantee the rights of all other citizens,” said Barrios. “No power should interfere in the exercise of justice.”

More than two decades after the signing of the historic 1996 Peace Accords, violence against women is still normalized and leadership is associated with men. “Women are not expected to occupy important positions,” added Judge Barrios, who has been threatened with violence and intimidation multiple times. “Even when they don’t threaten you physically, they try to undermine women’s authority by saying that we are not qualified or capable. After the genocide and Sepur Zarco cases, the work load in my court diminished…these are subtle ways of undermining our work.”

Similarly, in Burundi, where women pushed for inclusion in the peace process, the promises of gender equality have not translated into women having real influence on decision-making. Although the law sets a 30 per cent female participation quota in elected and nominated public bodies, women are not considered key political partners.

“It means that in terms of presence, even though women get into negotiations, the influence of women is limited by socio-economic constraints,” said Messina Lauretta Manirakisa from Impunity Watch, Burundi. Since men are perceived as leaders, while women are expected to focus at home or on social issues, even when women participate in politics, they have challenges finding resources for campaigning or balancing their role at work and at home. Without addressing masculinities, it is impossible to secure meaningful participation of women, suggested Manirakiza.

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“Women must understand their political role in society,” said Goretti Ndacayisaba, who leads the organization Dushirehamwe in Burundi. “We try to make sure that both men and women learn about the laws and talk to each other—it’s the best way to fight negative masculinities.”

“Once women are economically powerful, have the space to express themselves and a social and political role in the community, there is no doubt that the issues of peace and security will be effected,” Goretti added.

The experiences shared at the event resonate with the findings of the Global Study on the Implementation of UNSCR 1325 (2015), which highlighted strategies to enhance women’s participation and leadership within public institutions and peace processes, as well as investment in engaging men to foster non-violent expressions of masculinity.

For peace to be meaningful for women and men alike, a transformative approach that tackles underlying drivers, rather than symptoms, is needed. “If we are not protecting women and their rights, we’re not addressing the obstacles to their participation,” said Nahla Valji, Senior Gender Adviser to the UN Secretary-General, in conclusion.

“We cannot abandon the spaces [that] women have fought to gain,” added Judge Yassmin Barrios.

Source: UN Women

On 25 October, women leaders and experts gathered at the UN Headquarters to discuss issues of masculinities, violence against women, and women’s participation in peace and justice in transitional societies. With 2 billion people across 35 countries and territories affected by fragility, conflict and violence, women’s active participation and leadership in preventing conflict and sustaining peace is critical.

The side event, co-organized by UN Women, Impunity Watch and Oxfam IBIS, with the support of the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the United Nations, marked the 17thanniversary of the adoption of the UN Security Council resolution 1325, which recognized for the first time the role of women’s leadership in international peace and security.

Panellists reflected on women’s exclusion from leadership and the role of masculinities in perpetuating gender-based violence against women, drawing upon case studies from Burundi and Guatemala.

“When we talk about gender equality, and women, peace and security, the engagement of boys and men is crucial and without their engagement we cannot implement the 1325 agenda” shared Lise Gregoire-van Haaren, Netherlands Ambassador to the United Nations.

"It is very important to protect women leaders who protect human rights," added Paivi Kannisto, Chief of Peace and Security of UN Women, kicking off the panel discussion. “Men must listen to stories of women leaders to understand how to work in solidarity with them, they must be front and center of the work we do around the world.”

Systematic sexual and gender-based violence against women during conflicts leave lasting impacts on societies in transition, where patterns of such violence continue to be reproduced, and women’s leadership is constantly undermined.

In both Guatemala and Burundi, armed conflicts have left a legacy of impunity for gender-based violence. Panellists presented findings from recent research on the status of women’s leadership in both countries and the challenges that women leaders grapple with.

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In Guatemala, women make up only 38 per cent of the judiciary and they routinely face discrimination. Some have even experienced attacks. Yassmin Barrios, Presiding judge in the landmark Guatemala genocide and Sepur Zarco cases, is a prime example.

“Judges, both men and women, should be leaders in our workplaces and agents of change to strengthen the rule of law and guarantee the rights of all other citizens,” said Barrios. “No power should interfere in the exercise of justice.”

More than two decades after the signing of the historic 1996 Peace Accords, violence against women is still normalized and leadership is associated with men. “Women are not expected to occupy important positions,” added Judge Barrios, who has been threatened with violence and intimidation multiple times. “Even when they don’t threaten you physically, they try to undermine women’s authority by saying that we are not qualified or capable. After the genocide and Sepur Zarco cases, the work load in my court diminished…these are subtle ways of undermining our work.”

Similarly, in Burundi, where women pushed for inclusion in the peace process, the promises of gender equality have not translated into women having real influence on decision-making. Although the law sets a 30 per cent female participation quota in elected and nominated public bodies, women are not considered key political partners.

“It means that in terms of presence, even though women get into negotiations, the influence of women is limited by socio-economic constraints,” said Messina Lauretta Manirakisa from Impunity Watch, Burundi. Since men are perceived as leaders, while women are expected to focus at home or on social issues, even when women participate in politics, they have challenges finding resources for campaigning or balancing their role at work and at home. Without addressing masculinities, it is impossible to secure meaningful participation of women, suggested Manirakiza.

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“Women must understand their political role in society,” said Goretti Ndacayisaba, who leads the organization Dushirehamwe in Burundi. “We try to make sure that both men and women learn about the laws and talk to each other—it’s the best way to fight negative masculinities.”

“Once women are economically powerful, have the space to express themselves and a social and political role in the community, there is no doubt that the issues of peace and security will be effected,” Goretti added.

The experiences shared at the event resonate with the findings of the Global Study on the Implementation of UNSCR 1325 (2015), which highlighted strategies to enhance women’s participation and leadership within public institutions and peace processes, as well as investment in engaging men to foster non-violent expressions of masculinity.

For peace to be meaningful for women and men alike, a transformative approach that tackles underlying drivers, rather than symptoms, is needed. “If we are not protecting women and their rights, we’re not addressing the obstacles to their participation,” said Nahla Valji, Senior Gender Adviser to the UN Secretary-General, in conclusion.

“We cannot abandon the spaces [that] women have fought to gain,” added Judge Yassmin Barrios.

Source: UN Women

On 25 October, women leaders and experts gathered at the UN Headquarters to discuss issues of masculinities, violence against women, and women’s participation in peace and justice in transitional societies. With 2 billion people across 35 countries and territories affected by fragility, conflict and violence, women’s active participation and leadership in preventing conflict and sustaining peace is critical.

The side event, co-organized by UN Women, Impunity Watch and Oxfam IBIS, with the support of the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the United Nations, marked the 17thanniversary of the adoption of the UN Security Council resolution 1325, which recognized for the first time the role of women’s leadership in international peace and security.

Panellists reflected on women’s exclusion from leadership and the role of masculinities in perpetuating gender-based violence against women, drawing upon case studies from Burundi and Guatemala.

“When we talk about gender equality, and women, peace and security, the engagement of boys and men is crucial and without their engagement we cannot implement the 1325 agenda” shared Lise Gregoire-van Haaren, Netherlands Ambassador to the United Nations.

"It is very important to protect women leaders who protect human rights," added Paivi Kannisto, Chief of Peace and Security of UN Women, kicking off the panel discussion. “Men must listen to stories of women leaders to understand how to work in solidarity with them, they must be front and center of the work we do around the world.”

Systematic sexual and gender-based violence against women during conflicts leave lasting impacts on societies in transition, where patterns of such violence continue to be reproduced, and women’s leadership is constantly undermined.

In both Guatemala and Burundi, armed conflicts have left a legacy of impunity for gender-based violence. Panellists presented findings from recent research on the status of women’s leadership in both countries and the challenges that women leaders grapple with.

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In Guatemala, women make up only 38 per cent of the judiciary and they routinely face discrimination. Some have even experienced attacks. Yassmin Barrios, Presiding judge in the landmark Guatemala genocide and Sepur Zarco cases, is a prime example.

“Judges, both men and women, should be leaders in our workplaces and agents of change to strengthen the rule of law and guarantee the rights of all other citizens,” said Barrios. “No power should interfere in the exercise of justice.”

More than two decades after the signing of the historic 1996 Peace Accords, violence against women is still normalized and leadership is associated with men. “Women are not expected to occupy important positions,” added Judge Barrios, who has been threatened with violence and intimidation multiple times. “Even when they don’t threaten you physically, they try to undermine women’s authority by saying that we are not qualified or capable. After the genocide and Sepur Zarco cases, the work load in my court diminished…these are subtle ways of undermining our work.”

Similarly, in Burundi, where women pushed for inclusion in the peace process, the promises of gender equality have not translated into women having real influence on decision-making. Although the law sets a 30 per cent female participation quota in elected and nominated public bodies, women are not considered key political partners.

“It means that in terms of presence, even though women get into negotiations, the influence of women is limited by socio-economic constraints,” said Messina Lauretta Manirakisa from Impunity Watch, Burundi. Since men are perceived as leaders, while women are expected to focus at home or on social issues, even when women participate in politics, they have challenges finding resources for campaigning or balancing their role at work and at home. Without addressing masculinities, it is impossible to secure meaningful participation of women, suggested Manirakiza.

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“Women must understand their political role in society,” said Goretti Ndacayisaba, who leads the organization Dushirehamwe in Burundi. “We try to make sure that both men and women learn about the laws and talk to each other—it’s the best way to fight negative masculinities.”

“Once women are economically powerful, have the space to express themselves and a social and political role in the community, there is no doubt that the issues of peace and security will be effected,” Goretti added.

The experiences shared at the event resonate with the findings of the Global Study on the Implementation of UNSCR 1325 (2015), which highlighted strategies to enhance women’s participation and leadership within public institutions and peace processes, as well as investment in engaging men to foster non-violent expressions of masculinity.

For peace to be meaningful for women and men alike, a transformative approach that tackles underlying drivers, rather than symptoms, is needed. “If we are not protecting women and their rights, we’re not addressing the obstacles to their participation,” said Nahla Valji, Senior Gender Adviser to the UN Secretary-General, in conclusion.

“We cannot abandon the spaces [that] women have fought to gain,” added Judge Yassmin Barrios.

Source: UN Women

On 25 October, women leaders and experts gathered at the UN Headquarters to discuss issues of masculinities, violence against women, and women’s participation in peace and justice in transitional societies. With 2 billion people across 35 countries and territories affected by fragility, conflict and violence, women’s active participation and leadership in preventing conflict and sustaining peace is critical.

The side event, co-organized by UN Women, Impunity Watch and Oxfam IBIS, with the support of the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the United Nations, marked the 17thanniversary of the adoption of the UN Security Council resolution 1325, which recognized for the first time the role of women’s leadership in international peace and security.

Panellists reflected on women’s exclusion from leadership and the role of masculinities in perpetuating gender-based violence against women, drawing upon case studies from Burundi and Guatemala.

“When we talk about gender equality, and women, peace and security, the engagement of boys and men is crucial and without their engagement we cannot implement the 1325 agenda” shared Lise Gregoire-van Haaren, Netherlands Ambassador to the United Nations.

"It is very important to protect women leaders who protect human rights," added Paivi Kannisto, Chief of Peace and Security of UN Women, kicking off the panel discussion. “Men must listen to stories of women leaders to understand how to work in solidarity with them, they must be front and center of the work we do around the world.”

Systematic sexual and gender-based violence against women during conflicts leave lasting impacts on societies in transition, where patterns of such violence continue to be reproduced, and women’s leadership is constantly undermined.

In both Guatemala and Burundi, armed conflicts have left a legacy of impunity for gender-based violence. Panellists presented findings from recent research on the status of women’s leadership in both countries and the challenges that women leaders grapple with.

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In Guatemala, women make up only 38 per cent of the judiciary and they routinely face discrimination. Some have even experienced attacks. Yassmin Barrios, Presiding judge in the landmark Guatemala genocide and Sepur Zarco cases, is a prime example.

“Judges, both men and women, should be leaders in our workplaces and agents of change to strengthen the rule of law and guarantee the rights of all other citizens,” said Barrios. “No power should interfere in the exercise of justice.”

More than two decades after the signing of the historic 1996 Peace Accords, violence against women is still normalized and leadership is associated with men. “Women are not expected to occupy important positions,” added Judge Barrios, who has been threatened with violence and intimidation multiple times. “Even when they don’t threaten you physically, they try to undermine women’s authority by saying that we are not qualified or capable. After the genocide and Sepur Zarco cases, the work load in my court diminished…these are subtle ways of undermining our work.”

Similarly, in Burundi, where women pushed for inclusion in the peace process, the promises of gender equality have not translated into women having real influence on decision-making. Although the law sets a 30 per cent female participation quota in elected and nominated public bodies, women are not considered key political partners.

“It means that in terms of presence, even though women get into negotiations, the influence of women is limited by socio-economic constraints,” said Messina Lauretta Manirakisa from Impunity Watch, Burundi. Since men are perceived as leaders, while women are expected to focus at home or on social issues, even when women participate in politics, they have challenges finding resources for campaigning or balancing their role at work and at home. Without addressing masculinities, it is impossible to secure meaningful participation of women, suggested Manirakiza.

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“Women must understand their political role in society,” said Goretti Ndacayisaba, who leads the organization Dushirehamwe in Burundi. “We try to make sure that both men and women learn about the laws and talk to each other—it’s the best way to fight negative masculinities.”

“Once women are economically powerful, have the space to express themselves and a social and political role in the community, there is no doubt that the issues of peace and security will be effected,” Goretti added.

The experiences shared at the event resonate with the findings of the Global Study on the Implementation of UNSCR 1325 (2015), which highlighted strategies to enhance women’s participation and leadership within public institutions and peace processes, as well as investment in engaging men to foster non-violent expressions of masculinity.

For peace to be meaningful for women and men alike, a transformative approach that tackles underlying drivers, rather than symptoms, is needed. “If we are not protecting women and their rights, we’re not addressing the obstacles to their participation,” said Nahla Valji, Senior Gender Adviser to the UN Secretary-General, in conclusion.

“We cannot abandon the spaces [that] women have fought to gain,” added Judge Yassmin Barrios.

Source: UN Women

On 25 October, women leaders and experts gathered at the UN Headquarters to discuss issues of masculinities, violence against women, and women’s participation in peace and justice in transitional societies. With 2 billion people across 35 countries and territories affected by fragility, conflict and violence, women’s active participation and leadership in preventing conflict and sustaining peace is critical.

The side event, co-organized by UN Women, Impunity Watch and Oxfam IBIS, with the support of the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the United Nations, marked the 17thanniversary of the adoption of the UN Security Council resolution 1325, which recognized for the first time the role of women’s leadership in international peace and security.

Panellists reflected on women’s exclusion from leadership and the role of masculinities in perpetuating gender-based violence against women, drawing upon case studies from Burundi and Guatemala.

“When we talk about gender equality, and women, peace and security, the engagement of boys and men is crucial and without their engagement we cannot implement the 1325 agenda” shared Lise Gregoire-van Haaren, Netherlands Ambassador to the United Nations.

"It is very important to protect women leaders who protect human rights," added Paivi Kannisto, Chief of Peace and Security of UN Women, kicking off the panel discussion. “Men must listen to stories of women leaders to understand how to work in solidarity with them, they must be front and center of the work we do around the world.”

Systematic sexual and gender-based violence against women during conflicts leave lasting impacts on societies in transition, where patterns of such violence continue to be reproduced, and women’s leadership is constantly undermined.

In both Guatemala and Burundi, armed conflicts have left a legacy of impunity for gender-based violence. Panellists presented findings from recent research on the status of women’s leadership in both countries and the challenges that women leaders grapple with.

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In Guatemala, women make up only 38 per cent of the judiciary and they routinely face discrimination. Some have even experienced attacks. Yassmin Barrios, Presiding judge in the landmark Guatemala genocide and Sepur Zarco cases, is a prime example.

“Judges, both men and women, should be leaders in our workplaces and agents of change to strengthen the rule of law and guarantee the rights of all other citizens,” said Barrios. “No power should interfere in the exercise of justice.”

More than two decades after the signing of the historic 1996 Peace Accords, violence against women is still normalized and leadership is associated with men. “Women are not expected to occupy important positions,” added Judge Barrios, who has been threatened with violence and intimidation multiple times. “Even when they don’t threaten you physically, they try to undermine women’s authority by saying that we are not qualified or capable. After the genocide and Sepur Zarco cases, the work load in my court diminished…these are subtle ways of undermining our work.”

Similarly, in Burundi, where women pushed for inclusion in the peace process, the promises of gender equality have not translated into women having real influence on decision-making. Although the law sets a 30 per cent female participation quota in elected and nominated public bodies, women are not considered key political partners.

“It means that in terms of presence, even though women get into negotiations, the influence of women is limited by socio-economic constraints,” said Messina Lauretta Manirakisa from Impunity Watch, Burundi. Since men are perceived as leaders, while women are expected to focus at home or on social issues, even when women participate in politics, they have challenges finding resources for campaigning or balancing their role at work and at home. Without addressing masculinities, it is impossible to secure meaningful participation of women, suggested Manirakiza.

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“Women must understand their political role in society,” said Goretti Ndacayisaba, who leads the organization Dushirehamwe in Burundi. “We try to make sure that both men and women learn about the laws and talk to each other—it’s the best way to fight negative masculinities.”

“Once women are economically powerful, have the space to express themselves and a social and political role in the community, there is no doubt that the issues of peace and security will be effected,” Goretti added.

The experiences shared at the event resonate with the findings of the Global Study on the Implementation of UNSCR 1325 (2015), which highlighted strategies to enhance women’s participation and leadership within public institutions and peace processes, as well as investment in engaging men to foster non-violent expressions of masculinity.

For peace to be meaningful for women and men alike, a transformative approach that tackles underlying drivers, rather than symptoms, is needed. “If we are not protecting women and their rights, we’re not addressing the obstacles to their participation,” said Nahla Valji, Senior Gender Adviser to the UN Secretary-General, in conclusion.

“We cannot abandon the spaces [that] women have fought to gain,” added Judge Yassmin Barrios.

Source: UN Women

On 25 October, women leaders and experts gathered at the UN Headquarters to discuss issues of masculinities, violence against women, and women’s participation in peace and justice in transitional societies. With 2 billion people across 35 countries and territories affected by fragility, conflict and violence, women’s active participation and leadership in preventing conflict and sustaining peace is critical.

The side event, co-organized by UN Women, Impunity Watch and Oxfam IBIS, with the support of the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the United Nations, marked the 17thanniversary of the adoption of the UN Security Council resolution 1325, which recognized for the first time the role of women’s leadership in international peace and security.

Panellists reflected on women’s exclusion from leadership and the role of masculinities in perpetuating gender-based violence against women, drawing upon case studies from Burundi and Guatemala.

“When we talk about gender equality, and women, peace and security, the engagement of boys and men is crucial and without their engagement we cannot implement the 1325 agenda” shared Lise Gregoire-van Haaren, Netherlands Ambassador to the United Nations.

"It is very important to protect women leaders who protect human rights," added Paivi Kannisto, Chief of Peace and Security of UN Women, kicking off the panel discussion. “Men must listen to stories of women leaders to understand how to work in solidarity with them, they must be front and center of the work we do around the world.”

Systematic sexual and gender-based violence against women during conflicts leave lasting impacts on societies in transition, where patterns of such violence continue to be reproduced, and women’s leadership is constantly undermined.

In both Guatemala and Burundi, armed conflicts have left a legacy of impunity for gender-based violence. Panellists presented findings from recent research on the status of women’s leadership in both countries and the challenges that women leaders grapple with.

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In Guatemala, women make up only 38 per cent of the judiciary and they routinely face discrimination. Some have even experienced attacks. Yassmin Barrios, Presiding judge in the landmark Guatemala genocide and Sepur Zarco cases, is a prime example.

“Judges, both men and women, should be leaders in our workplaces and agents of change to strengthen the rule of law and guarantee the rights of all other citizens,” said Barrios. “No power should interfere in the exercise of justice.”

More than two decades after the signing of the historic 1996 Peace Accords, violence against women is still normalized and leadership is associated with men. “Women are not expected to occupy important positions,” added Judge Barrios, who has been threatened with violence and intimidation multiple times. “Even when they don’t threaten you physically, they try to undermine women’s authority by saying that we are not qualified or capable. After the genocide and Sepur Zarco cases, the work load in my court diminished…these are subtle ways of undermining our work.”

Similarly, in Burundi, where women pushed for inclusion in the peace process, the promises of gender equality have not translated into women having real influence on decision-making. Although the law sets a 30 per cent female participation quota in elected and nominated public bodies, women are not considered key political partners.

“It means that in terms of presence, even though women get into negotiations, the influence of women is limited by socio-economic constraints,” said Messina Lauretta Manirakisa from Impunity Watch, Burundi. Since men are perceived as leaders, while women are expected to focus at home or on social issues, even when women participate in politics, they have challenges finding resources for campaigning or balancing their role at work and at home. Without addressing masculinities, it is impossible to secure meaningful participation of women, suggested Manirakiza.

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“Women must understand their political role in society,” said Goretti Ndacayisaba, who leads the organization Dushirehamwe in Burundi. “We try to make sure that both men and women learn about the laws and talk to each other—it’s the best way to fight negative masculinities.”

“Once women are economically powerful, have the space to express themselves and a social and political role in the community, there is no doubt that the issues of peace and security will be effected,” Goretti added.

The experiences shared at the event resonate with the findings of the Global Study on the Implementation of UNSCR 1325 (2015), which highlighted strategies to enhance women’s participation and leadership within public institutions and peace processes, as well as investment in engaging men to foster non-violent expressions of masculinity.

For peace to be meaningful for women and men alike, a transformative approach that tackles underlying drivers, rather than symptoms, is needed. “If we are not protecting women and their rights, we’re not addressing the obstacles to their participation,” said Nahla Valji, Senior Gender Adviser to the UN Secretary-General, in conclusion.

“We cannot abandon the spaces [that] women have fought to gain,” added Judge Yassmin Barrios.

Source: UN Women

On 25 October, women leaders and experts gathered at the UN Headquarters to discuss issues of masculinities, violence against women, and women’s participation in peace and justice in transitional societies. With 2 billion people across 35 countries and territories affected by fragility, conflict and violence, women’s active participation and leadership in preventing conflict and sustaining peace is critical.

The side event, co-organized by UN Women, Impunity Watch and Oxfam IBIS, with the support of the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the United Nations, marked the 17thanniversary of the adoption of the UN Security Council resolution 1325, which recognized for the first time the role of women’s leadership in international peace and security.

Panellists reflected on women’s exclusion from leadership and the role of masculinities in perpetuating gender-based violence against women, drawing upon case studies from Burundi and Guatemala.

“When we talk about gender equality, and women, peace and security, the engagement of boys and men is crucial and without their engagement we cannot implement the 1325 agenda” shared Lise Gregoire-van Haaren, Netherlands Ambassador to the United Nations.

"It is very important to protect women leaders who protect human rights," added Paivi Kannisto, Chief of Peace and Security of UN Women, kicking off the panel discussion. “Men must listen to stories of women leaders to understand how to work in solidarity with them, they must be front and center of the work we do around the world.”

Systematic sexual and gender-based violence against women during conflicts leave lasting impacts on societies in transition, where patterns of such violence continue to be reproduced, and women’s leadership is constantly undermined.

In both Guatemala and Burundi, armed conflicts have left a legacy of impunity for gender-based violence. Panellists presented findings from recent research on the status of women’s leadership in both countries and the challenges that women leaders grapple with.

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In Guatemala, women make up only 38 per cent of the judiciary and they routinely face discrimination. Some have even experienced attacks. Yassmin Barrios, Presiding judge in the landmark Guatemala genocide and Sepur Zarco cases, is a prime example.

“Judges, both men and women, should be leaders in our workplaces and agents of change to strengthen the rule of law and guarantee the rights of all other citizens,” said Barrios. “No power should interfere in the exercise of justice.”

More than two decades after the signing of the historic 1996 Peace Accords, violence against women is still normalized and leadership is associated with men. “Women are not expected to occupy important positions,” added Judge Barrios, who has been threatened with violence and intimidation multiple times. “Even when they don’t threaten you physically, they try to undermine women’s authority by saying that we are not qualified or capable. After the genocide and Sepur Zarco cases, the work load in my court diminished…these are subtle ways of undermining our work.”

Similarly, in Burundi, where women pushed for inclusion in the peace process, the promises of gender equality have not translated into women having real influence on decision-making. Although the law sets a 30 per cent female participation quota in elected and nominated public bodies, women are not considered key political partners.

“It means that in terms of presence, even though women get into negotiations, the influence of women is limited by socio-economic constraints,” said Messina Lauretta Manirakisa from Impunity Watch, Burundi. Since men are perceived as leaders, while women are expected to focus at home or on social issues, even when women participate in politics, they have challenges finding resources for campaigning or balancing their role at work and at home. Without addressing masculinities, it is impossible to secure meaningful participation of women, suggested Manirakiza.

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“Women must understand their political role in society,” said Goretti Ndacayisaba, who leads the organization Dushirehamwe in Burundi. “We try to make sure that both men and women learn about the laws and talk to each other—it’s the best way to fight negative masculinities.”

“Once women are economically powerful, have the space to express themselves and a social and political role in the community, there is no doubt that the issues of peace and security will be effected,” Goretti added.

The experiences shared at the event resonate with the findings of the Global Study on the Implementation of UNSCR 1325 (2015), which highlighted strategies to enhance women’s participation and leadership within public institutions and peace processes, as well as investment in engaging men to foster non-violent expressions of masculinity.

For peace to be meaningful for women and men alike, a transformative approach that tackles underlying drivers, rather than symptoms, is needed. “If we are not protecting women and their rights, we’re not addressing the obstacles to their participation,” said Nahla Valji, Senior Gender Adviser to the UN Secretary-General, in conclusion.

“We cannot abandon the spaces [that] women have fought to gain,” added Judge Yassmin Barrios.

Source: UN Women

Monrovia - UN Women Liberia country representative, Marie Goreth Nizigama has frowned the under representation of women across Liberia’s governance structure.

Madam Nizigama believes this participation can be impactful if priority is given to female participation, beginning with the pending 2017 presidential and general elections.

“We wish to emphasize that despite considerable investments in Liberia in the area of women’s political participation, the number of women in political leadership and the governance system is still far below global benchmarks,” Madam Nizigama said.

At the signing ceremony of an agreement of a project cooperation agreement on women’s political participation and elections between UN Women and partners in Monrovia, the UN Women Representatives emphasized the importance of working with civil society organizations in driving local ownership as well as enhancing national capacity that would deliver national priorities.

The agreement was signed between UN Women, the Women NGO Secretariat of Liberia, New Narratives and the Liberia Women National Political Forum.

Click here to read the full article published by Front Page Africa Online in September 2017.