Gender Concerns Aid in the Understanding of Peace and Conflict

Abstract

Centred on United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, this study provides insights into the role of gender in peace and conflict, including but not limited to advocating for gender equality, preventing sexual violence, protecting women who are victims of conflict, and promoting women's participation in international peace-related activities. This study highlights the different roles that women play in conflict and challenges the traditional view of women as mere victims of conflict through three cases. While Turkey's national culture contributes to the challenges faced by women in the military, such as sexual harassment. At the same time, there has been a lack of progress in empowering women and integrating them into peace and security institutions. In the case of the African Union, for example, despite a series of documents advocating for women's advancement and gender equality, little progress has been made in two decades when it comes to implementation at the country level. Nepal is an example of women's empowerment in conflict. The transformation of widowhood practices is one of the most noteworthy aspects of the conflict, in which women were able to get what they wanted. The research indicates that though resolution 1325 may not fully increase the social positions of women, women could defend their rights and enhance their powers on their own through conflicts.