PIN Brief 15/08
PIN Policy Brief on Gender and Peace Negotiations by Élise Féron
This policy brief argues that the inclusion of women and of gender issues in peace negotiations is key to the success of any subsequent process of reconciliation, because it is likely to lead to more encompassing and inclusive peace agreements. Involving female negotiators can also possibly help to prevent a relapse into conflict, by giving a voice to players with a significant experience and expertise in peacebuilding at the local level, like some women’s organisations, which are usually excluded from the political and security fields.
Recent initiatives spearheaded by the UN, like the publication in 2014 of Guidelines for Addressing Conflict-Related Sexual Violence in Ceasefire and Peace Agreements, signal an increased international interest in the issue. This policy brief explores the reasons why gender has so far been largely neglected in peace processes, and proposes strategies for increasing the gender-sensitivity of peace negotiations.
