Feminist Perspectives on Socio-Economic Post-Conflict Recovery and Peacebuilding
Publisher: CORDAID
Date: 2024
Topics: Climate Change, Economic Recovery, Gender
Post-conflict recovery and peacebuilding require innovative, diverse approaches to ensure sustainable peace and socioeconomic development. Despite frameworks like CEDAW and the Beijing Declaration, the gendered impacts of conflicts and women's roles in peace processes have long been overlooked. In response to advocacy by women's movements, the UN adopted Security Council Resolution 1325 on the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Agenda in 2000. Yet, the vulnerabilities and significant contributions of women in these processes remain underrecognised, underscoring the need to better integrate them for effective and lasting peacebuilding efforts.
Recognising and addressing the specific challenges that women face in post-conflict environments is not only a matter of equity but also a strategic necessity for achieving long-term peace and stability. Gender-transformative policies can mitigate the socio-economic vulnerabilities of women, thereby contributing to more resilient and prosperous communities.
Additionally, the meaningful participation of women in decision-making processes at all levels provides the conditions for a transition towards more just, equitable and prosperous societies. Their involvement leads to more comprehensive and inclusive solutions that reflect the needs of entire communities, not just a select few. Incorporating gender considerations promotes the leadership of women and gender equality. It recognises that women are not just victims of conflict but also agents of change, capable of driving development and peace when given the opportunity and resources.