Amplifying the Voices of Young Women in Peacebuilding in “Africa” in honour of International Women’s Day

By allcitynews.ng 

Although the programme have come and gone, but the takeaway lessons will take long time to be forgotten by the participants.

As the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda in Africa traced its roots to the 2000 Windhoek Declaration, which led to the adoption of the UN Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325, a resolution that recognized the impact of conflict on women and girls and emphasized the role that women play in conflict prevention, resolution, and peacebuilding.

Since then, Africa has made notable progress in advancing the agenda, including the development of legal and policy frameworks, the development of National Action Plans, and the creation of continental networks of women leaders and mediators. Despite these efforts, challenges persist regarding the participation of young women in peacebuilding processes. Women’s representation in peace negotiations remains disproportionately low, often symbolic, and subject to resistance due to cultural and structural barriers. Young women, particularly those from conflict-affected regions face systemic obstacles and their voices are often unheard in policy formulation and peace negotiations. Digital spaces, which offer a platform for advocacy and engagement have become increasingly hostile due to online harassment and the increasing restrictions on digital activism by African governments.

March is globally recognized as Women’s Month, a time to celebrate the achievements of women in various fields and advocate for gender equality. In Africa, where conflict and insecurity persist in multiple regions, young women have played crucial roles in peacebuilding and promoting inclusion within communities. Despite their significant contributions, these efforts often remain underrepresented in policy discussions and mainstream narratives.

Global Rights held a webinar titled “Amplifying the Voices of Young Women in Peacebuilding in Africa” in honour of International Women’s Day, celebrated globally on 8th March. The webinar provided an opportunity to reflect on the progress made toward gender equality and inclusion in Africa while acknowledging the work that remains to be done. It was aimed to bridge the gap between policy and practice by examining the barriers that limit young women’s participation and exploring strategies for overcoming them.

Our mailing address is: Global Rights Offices