As the United Nations assistant secretary-general for Africa, I know all too well the immense challenges women face in conflict situations, but I also have firm belief and appreciation of the important role they play in conflict prevention, conflict resolution and securing lasting peace.
From sexual and gender-based violence to a lack of access to education, healthcare, and jobs, women and girls are often disproportionately impacted by conflict. However, when it comes to access to the negotiating table in political and peace processes, it is more often men who take the seats. It is time to make sure that women’s participation in peace and security processes becomes the norm, not a token effort.
