OSCE meeting in Baden, Austria, explores how to better utilize the nexus between effective peace processes and the inclusion of women

The link between effective peace processes and the inclusion of women was the focus of a meeting organized by the OSCE Chairmanship and the OSCE Secretariat on 25 and 26 April 2017 in Baden, Austria.

The meeting brought together around 20 participants: senior representatives from the OSCE Chairmanship, field operations, Institutions and the Secretariat as well as from the OSCE “Group of Friends of Mediation”, to exchange experiences on how to strengthen the role of women in the prevention and resolution of conflicts, women’s inclusion in mediation processes, and in peacebuilding.

They also explored the challenges in implementing the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 (2000) on Women, Peace and Security and the OSCE Ministerial Council Decision on “Elements of the Conflict Cycle” (2011), which underscore the importance of women’s full participation and increased representation in conflict resolution and peace processes.

Austrian Ambassador to Switzerland and former Austrian Foreign Minister Ursula Plassnik set the scene for the meeting and stressed in her opening remarks “Women change peace negotiations by raising the issues society needs for the future.”

“We are strongly convinced that sustainable peace and security can only be achieved when women are fully involved as active participants at all stages of the prevention, management and resolution of conflict,” said Ambassador Clemens Koja, Chairperson of the OSCE Permanent Council, in his statement.

Ambassador Paul Bekkers, Director of the Office of the Secretary General, added: “It is not enough to increase the numbers of women in peace processes – women’s participation must be genuine and meaningful.”

During the discussion participants shared evidence-based insights on the link between the effectiveness of peace processes and the inclusion of women. The meeting concluded with a review of the findings and the identification of ways forward.