Women in peacekeeping

Women have regularly participated in global peacekeeping efforts, including through the United Nations.^[1] Although participation greatly increased in the last decade of the twentieth century and the first two decades of the twenty-first century, women remained significantly underrepresented in peacekeeping operations in 2023.^[2] The participation of women in peacekeeping operations differs significantly between military contingents, military observers, staff officers versus police units.^[3] Gender stereotypes and discrimination often limit women's opportunities for advancement and leadership roles within international organizations and military institutions.^[4] Additionally, women often face discrimination and harassment in male-dominated peacekeeping environment.^[5]

The inclusion of women in peacekeeping operations provides access to places and people inaccessible to men and improves communication quality with civilian communities.^[6] Studies have shown that peacekeeping missions with a higher percentage of female personnel are more effective in reducing violence and achieving long-lasting peace agreements.^{[7][8][9][10]} Women peacekeepers have been instrumental in addressing issues such as sexual violence, human trafficking, and gender-based discrimination, which are prevalent in conflict-affected areas.^[11] Women peacekeepers also serve as role models for women and girls in these areas, showing them that women can be powerful and influential agents of change.^[12]

In October 2000, United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 (S/RES/1325) on women, peace, and security was adopted unanimously by the UN Security Council, after recalling resolutions 1261 (1999), 1265 (1999), 1296 (2000), and 1314 (2000). The resolution acknowledged the disproportionate and unique impact of armed conflict on women and girls. It calls for the adoption of a gender perspective to consider the special needs of women and girls during conflict, repatriation and resettlement, rehabilitation, reintegration, and post-conflict reconstruction.^[13][14][15]