What is women’s role in conflict, peacebuilding and democratization? What are the consequences of women’s inclusion and exclusion from the peace process? These are some of the questions explored in Women in Conflict and Peace, International IDEA’s publication was launched on 26 January in Myitkyina, the capital of Kachin State the organisation said in a press release.
Drawing on four case studies from Myanmar, Afghanistan, Rwanda and the Philippines, Women in Conflict and Peace analyses the impact of women on conflict and peacebuilding, concluding with recommendations that international and local actors can implement to increase the participation of marginalized women in peace- and democracy-building initiatives.
Speaking at the launch event, Jenny Hedström, editor of the book and author of the Myanmar chapter, highlighted the low representation of women (only 52 women out of 700 participants) in the recent Union Peace Conference. “Women’s involvement in peacebuilding is essential for sustainable peace”, she said. “Peace negotiations must include the voices of women, or these negotiations will be flawed”.
The event was hosted by the Humanity Institute and generated a lively discussion on the importance of women’s participation in the ongoing peace process in Myanmar. Free copies of the book were distributed after the launch.
Originally published in English, International IDEA’s publication Women in Conflict and Peace (Selected Chapters) is now available in Myanmar language and will be distributed to key players in the Myanmar peace process. The book is also available for download.