The Oxford Handbook of Gender and Conflict

The Oxford Handbook of Gender and Conflict emphasizes the multidimensionality of gender in conflict and prioritizes the experience of women, given the changing nature of war and the historical de-emphasis on women's experiences. It is organized into seven core sections, including theoretical foundations, sources, conflicts, post-conflict process, institutions and actors, challenges, and case studies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 672 pages
Publication date: 13 March 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

The study of war and conflict has traditionally been dominated by the perspective of men, with men often portrayed as soldiers, commanders, casualties, and civilians. Women, on the other hand, have been largely invisible as combatants, and when they are depicted, they are typically portrayed as victims. However, the field of war and conflict studies is evolving, with scholars increasingly recognizing the gendered dimensions of conflict and paying greater attention to the diverse roles that women play in conflict and post-conflict settings.

The Oxford Handbook of Gender and Conflict is a comprehensive resource that explores the multifaceted nature of gender in conflict. While it acknowledges the importance of gender as a category, it also prioritizes the experiences of women, recognizing the changing nature of war and the historical de-emphasis on women's experiences. Today's wars are not limited to traditional encounters between formal armies but rather encompass societal conflicts that operate at various levels, from the household to the village to the city. Women are inherently involved at all these levels.

The Handbook is organized into seven core sections:

Theoretical Foundations of the Role of Gender in Violent Conflicts: This section provides an overview of the theoretical frameworks and concepts that underpin the study of gender and conflict. It explores the ways in which gender norms, power dynamics, and social structures shape the experiences of women and men in conflict.

Sources for Studying Contemporary Conflict: This section provides an extensive list of sources and references for researchers interested in studying contemporary conflict. It includes books, articles, reports, and other materials that provide insights into the various aspects of conflict, including its causes, dynamics, and consequences.

Conflicts Themselves: This section examines the various conflicts that have occurred throughout history and the roles that women have played in them. It explores the different types of conflicts, such as civil wars, interstate wars, and conflicts within societies, and the ways in which gender norms, power dynamics, and social structures influence the experiences of women and men in these conflicts.

Post-Conflict Process: This section explores the processes and mechanisms that are involved in post-conflict reconstruction and peacebuilding. It examines the role of women in these processes, including their participation in decision-making, their leadership roles, and their challenges in rebuilding their communities.

Institutions and Actors: This section examines the institutions and actors that play a role in conflict, including governments, armed groups, international organizations, and civil society. It explores the ways in which gender norms, power dynamics, and social structures influence the behavior and actions of these institutions and actors and the impact that this has on the experiences of women and men in conflict.

Challenges Presented by the Evolving Nature of War: This section examines the challenges that are posed by the evolving nature of war, including the use of technology, the rise of non-state actors, and the increasing complexity of conflicts. It explores the ways in which these challenges affect the experiences of women and men in conflict and the strategies that can be adopted to address them.

Case Studies from Across the Globe: This section presents a substantial set of case studies from across the globe that illustrate the diverse roles that women play in conflict and post-conflict settings. These case studies provide insights into the experiences of women from different regions, cultures, and backgrounds and the challenges that they face in their efforts to promote peace and stability.

In conclusion, the Oxford Handbook of Gender and Conflict is a groundbreaking resource that provides a comprehensive and authoritative overview of the multifaceted nature of gender in conflict. By prioritizing the experiences of women and recognizing the changing nature of war, it sets the research agenda for years to come. This Handbook will be invaluable to scholars, policymakers, and practitioners working in the field of conflict and peacebuilding, as it offers a wealth of insights and perspectives that can help to inform their work and promote gender equality in conflict-affected societies.

Weight: 1070g
Dimension: 172 x 249 x 44 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197624418