Gender: governance, peace & security

Governance, peace and security

“The Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that everyone has the right to take part in the Government of his/her country…..Women's equal participation in decision-making is not only a demand for simple justice or democracy but can also be seen as a necessary condition for women's interests to be taken into account. Without the active participation of women and the incorporation of women's perspective at all levels of decision-making, the goals of equality, development and peace cannot be achieved.”

Beijing Platform for Action 1995

Political representation

Women’s political participation is essential to ensure that women’s issues are addressed. However, women’s participation is still limited – particularly in times of conflict. Women occupy only 15.7% of parliamentary seats around the world (Inter-Parliamentary Union 2006).

Women and armed conflict

While whole communities are affected by armed conflict and terrorism, women and girls are especially impacted.

In times of conflict investment in basic services may be reduced as money is spent on arms and warfare. Women living in poverty – especially rural women - will be particularly at risk.

Women and children make up some 80% of  the world’s refugees and other displaced persons. As well as facing the deprivation of property, security and the loss of close relatives they are often victims of sexual violence. Not only is this frightening and traumatic it can also result in unwanted pregnancies and infection with HIV.

The presence of national security and peace is an important factor to allow economic growth and development and the empowerment of women. Women should participate in conflict resolution and peace activities at all levels – including internationally – to work towards these ends.

Women and returning home

When peace returns and refugees return home they are often in danger from the risk of old landmines and challenged to work land that has become wild, often with no tools and few seeds. Women are especially affected as they tend to be the farmers and ones collecting water. Not only do they have to rebuild their lives but it is often within the context of a country that has minimal resources and infrastructure, making them particularly vulnerable to the effects of poverty. They need support to help them cope with these especial challenges.