On October 29th, over 80 Arab leaders and activists – most of them women – gathered in Jordan to discuss the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security. This landmark regional training was hosted by Karama, an organization working to end violence against women, in partnership with the UN Women Fund for Gender Equality and the UNDP.
The delegates called for the establishment of an Arab Regional Network on Women, Peace and Security. They also outlined four key areas of strategic focus, which include participation, protection, prevention and peace building.
It has been over 10 years since the adoption of Resolution 1325 and yet huge gaps remain in its implementation, especially in the Arab world. Uprisings and conservative leadership in the region have largely stagnated progress on women’s rights. The establishment of this Network is an important achievement, providing the opportunity for a greater inclusion of women in national and international dialogues.
“Governments across the world, and not just the Arab region, seem to have forgotten women provide a critical contribution to peace building,” Founder and CEO of Karama, Hibaaq Osman, said. “Over the past few days, an unprecedented regional network of women leaders and activists have learned from each others’ experiences. Our message to governments across the region is clear: women must be included in any dialogue on peace and stability.”
Learn More
Statement from the Association for Women’s Rights in Development
UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security