Women with disabilities to build peace

Women all over the world are opposing political exclusion. More needs to be done to ensure that a gender-sensitive approach is used, that all women have the opportunity to participate in rebuilding, building the rule of law, strengthening democracy and post-conflict decision-making. Sustainable peace requires the inclusion of all conflict-affected groups at all stages.

Some progress they were made through a series of United Nations Security Council resolutions, starting with resolution 1325 of 2000, to give women a place at the table of peacebuilding and post-conflict reconciliation. (1) However, women with disabilities have not played a role in these processes, either in practice or formally, through the various resolutions and political documents of the United Nations. (2)

Women with disabilities they face unique challenges, offer unique perspectives and have the ability to make important contributions to the peace-building and reconstruction process. They need to be included to ensure that they are effectively represented and that their needs and concerns are addressed. A gender emancipatory policy must consider disability along with other identities.

The groups who have traditionally been excluded, like women with disabilities, therefore deserve special attention, bringing their different background,, perspectives and skills. They can play an important role in formulating and implementing policies that will affect society as a whole moving forward after the conflict.

Lilian Dibo Eyong, Cameroon

Note

(1) United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 on women, peace and security was unanimously adopted by the United Nations Security Council on 31.10.2000. The resolution specifically addresses how women and girls are disproportionately affected by violent conflict and warfare and recognizes the critical role women can and already play in peacebuilding efforts.

UNSCR 1325 states that peace and security efforts are most sustainable when women are equal partners in preventing violent conflict, providing aid and recovery efforts, and building lasting peace

(2) Stephanie Ortoleva. (2010). Women with Disabilities - The Forgotten Peace Builders. https://womenenabled.org/pdfs/StephanieOrtoleva,WomenwithDisabilities-TheForgottenPeaceBuilders,33LOYLAINT’L&COMPLREV83(2010)Final.pdf

Lillian Dibo Eyong

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