Finding Gender Equality in the Women, Peace, and Security Agenda: From Global Promises to National Accountability

Gender equality is a critical concept in UNSCR 1325 on WPS, but it has been underexplored in international WPS research. This book bridges epistemic siloes between International Relations and Gender Studies to explore the complexity of gender equality in operation with the WPS agenda in nested case studies. It exposes multiple paradoxes embedded in gender equality politics and sheds light on opportunities and challenges for meaningful change in peace and security.

Format: Hardback
Length: 174 pages
Publication date: 06 April 2022
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

Gender equality has emerged as a pivotal political objective in the realm of peace and security, with the adoption of United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS). While it is widely acknowledged as one of the most critical concepts to understand the transformative potential of UNSCR 1325 in bringing about structural and tangible changes in peace and security, gender equality has remained relatively under-explored in international WPS research. This book aims to bridge the epistemic gaps between International Relations and Gender Studies by delving into the intricate complexities of gender equality in the context of the WPS agenda through a series of nested case studies.

At the global level, the book examines the role of the United Nations Security Council in promoting gender equality. It explores how the Council has addressed issues such as women's participation in peacekeeping operations, the protection of women and girls from violence, and the mainstreaming of gender perspectives in peace and security policies. The analysis draws on expert insights from nearly 70 UN, government, international, and local civil society representatives.

At the regional level, the book focuses on the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF). It examines how these regional organizations have promoted gender equality in their respective regions and how they have collaborated with the United Nations and other international actors to address gender-based violence and promote women's empowerment. The case studies include the Philippines and Australia, which have been active participants in ASEAN and PIF initiatives.

The interrogation of gender equality in the WPS agenda is guided by a feminist methodology, which emphasizes the importance of gender perspectives and the need to challenge patriarchal norms and power structures. The book sheds light on multiple paradoxes embedded in gender equality politics of the WPS agenda, highlighting both opportunities and challenges for meaningful change in peace and security at the intersection of the global and the local.

Overall, this book contributes to the growing body of literature on gender equality and WPS by providing a comprehensive and nuanced analysis of the challenges and opportunities faced by women and girls in the pursuit of peace and security. It offers valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers interested in advancing gender equality and promoting sustainable peace and security.

Weight: 431g
Dimension: 227 x 161 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538159088