[REFRACT Conflict Café] Negotiating Gender in Fragile and Conflict-Affected Settings

Ms. Esther Borauzima Beza, UMons

Last month’s UN Security Council annual open debate on implementing the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda highlighted the growing resistance to women’s rights and gender equality in many regions worldwide, along with the prioritization of military actions and spending over inclusive political processes to resolve conflicts. Against this backdrop, the Conflict Café discussion will delve into the complexities of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in the DRC, the often overlooked roles of women combatants and local « fixers » in the Great Lakes region, and the influence of religious leaders in peace negotiations in the Sahel.

Participants will present insights based on groundbreaking research on how gender dynamics shape both conflict and peace processes. The conversation will include an examination of recent international initiatives to address SGBV, the integration of women in peacebuilding roles, and the involvement of religious and community leaders in fostering dialogue and conflict resolution.

Together, they will underscore the importance of local and gendered perspectives in implementing the WPS agenda, offering a coherent narrative on how inclusive approaches are vital for sustainable peace and security.