THE ROLE AND IMPACT OF WOMEN ON PEACE BUILDING ISSIUES IN POST CONFLICT SOCIETIES

Abstract

Considering the devastating situation of women in the post-conflict societies, this research is analyzing the role and impact of women in peace Building issues in post- conflict societies. The main research question driving this thesis is: what is the impact of women participation during peace building on the outcome of the process. Women in post conflict societies- including Iraq (Kurdistan), Sudan and Afghanistan- have been vulnerable to the fatal effects of war and continual conflicts. As a result of these calamities, constructive role of women in the societies have been underestimated and thus, largely women have been marginalized to participate in public and social events in their related societies. Women are considered as Pacific’s groups who don’t incline to start wars, but to make peace. This is why mostly women are excluded to take part in peace negotiations and other important national decision-makings. Despite all of such discriminations, my thesis explores the local women initiatives in different post conflict societies aimed to shift the exclusive role of male -dominated decision makings into a more inclusive program where women can freely represent and fight for their rights too. In this regard, the thesis presents the local initiatives perpetrated by the women activists in Iraq (mostly Kurdistan), Sudan and Afghanistan, which improved women status in peacemaking issues and political participation. A great success by woman gain is lobbying for application of SCR 1325, provides basis for women participation and a foundation for peace, and conventions like CEDAW which supports for women empowerment and prevent any type of discrimination against women in these societies. Nonetheless, incredible barriers and obstacles stand on the way to women empowerment in post conflict societies. To mention some, insecurity, low level of economy, corruption, traditionalism of societies all prevent women to take an effective part in peace making issues and participate in governance. Therefore, the role of women in peace building is still contested and women still struggle to fight for their rights in post conflict societies, despite of the heavy rhetoric of international community for supporting women empowerment.