Policy briefs for “Women4Peace” GIZ project

In light of the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, particularly in countries such as Iraq, Yemen, Libya, and Syria, there is a pressing need to strengthen peacebuilding efforts and promote inclusive decision-making processes.

Recognizing the disproportionate impact of conflicts on women and the critical role they play in peacebuilding at local levels, the GIZ regional project “Enhancing Women’s Leadership for Sustainable Peace in Fragile Contexts in the MENA Region” (“Women4Peace”) is committed to increasing women’s participation in peacebuilding and political decision-making in Iraq, Yemen, Libya, and Syria, and beyond in the MENA region as well as at the global level. The goal is to empower women and feminist groups, enhancing their ability to engage effectively in political decision-making and peace processes. This involves creating opportunities and building capacities for participation. The project includes a networking and exchange program among focus countries, considering their unique potentials and dynamics for transformation.

A key focus is on strengthening civil society organisations, particularly those advocating for women’s rights, involved at various levels of peace processes and political engagement. The project is being implemented in close partnership with UN Women as the leading UN organization for women’s rights and empowerment. The module objective is women are increasingly involved in peace and political decision-making processes in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Through fostering partnerships among diverse stakeholders and cultivating an environment conducive to women’s engagement, the project aims to stimulate positive transformations and contribute to the region’s sustainable peace and development.

Elbarlament was contracted to prepare four policy briefs for the countries Iraq, Yemen, Syria and Libya, informing policy makers and partners alike about certain gaps in the implementation of the UN Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 (Women, Peace and Security Agenda). The four country briefs are supposed to inform the project as well as national and regional stakeholders about gaps between different peacebuilding tracks as well as capacity needs on all levels and across different groups of peace actors.

*Photo by Nathan J Hilton: https://www.pexels.com/photo/graffiti-art-in-berlin-a-message-of-peace-28961590/