Strengthening Peacebuilding Efforts: The Indispensable Roles of Women, Youth, and Multilateralism
30/07/2024
By Cristina Gallach
To ensure that the European Union (EU) can effectively contribute to peacebuilding and peacemaking for future generations, several critical steps must be taken. These include the inclusion of women, the active involvement of youth, and adequate funding for multilateral efforts. Additionally, a more coherent approach to conflict prevention, conflict management, and peacebuilding is essential.
First and foremost, the absence of women in peacebuilding processes must be addressed. Women bring unique perspectives to the table, often focusing on those most impacted by conflicts, such as children and other vulnerable groups. Without their input, resolutions are incomplete and less effective. Women think differently about issues like war and famine, and their insights are crucial for comprehensive solutions.
The EU’s current foreign and security policy, including its Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda, has been notably weak. This needs to change. Next year marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration, which affirmed that women’s rights are human rights and laid the foundation for the WPS agenda. This anniversary presents an opportunity to strengthen the WPS agenda and integrate it more effectively into the EU’s policies.
Another significant event next year is the major conference on Financing for Development. This conference will address how the Global North finances the Global South, providing a crucial opportunity to link peacebuilding with development. Financing development in the Global South can create better opportunities for peace by addressing some of the root causes of conflict.
Multilateralism also requires substantial funding. Effective multilateral efforts are underfunded, which hampers their ability to manage and prevent conflicts. The EU has a responsibility to ensure that multilateral initiatives receive the necessary financial support to make a meaningful impact.
Furthermore, coherence in the EU’s approach to conflict is vital. The EU must adopt a consistent strategy across different conflicts, considering the perspectives of various groups affected by violence. For example, the experiences of the mothers of Ukraine, Srebrenica, and Gaza highlight the need for a more unified and compassionate approach to conflict resolution.
The organisation I represent has launched a campaign called “Madame Secretary-General,” advocating for a woman to lead the United Nations after nine consecutive male secretaries-general. Bringing women into key decision-making positions can significantly alter the dynamics of conflict resolution. For instance, women’s participation in the Colombian peace negotiations was pivotal. In contrast, the Dayton Peace Agreement, which marked the end of the Bosnian War, made no reference to women or gender-based violence, resulting in a lack of comprehensive strategies to address these critical issues.
In addition to including women, it is essential to listen to young people. Youth often have fresh ideas and innovative solutions, yet they are frequently unheard. The EU must engage with young people and take their contributions seriously. Moreover, ensuring adequate funding for multilateralism is crucial for the success of peacebuilding efforts.
Taking action is more important than mere messaging. While social media campaigns can raise awareness, they often lack the depth and effectiveness needed for real change. However, social media can be used strategically, such as implementing digital ceasefires in conflict zones where online narratives exacerbate local tensions. The European Institute of Peace could explore these innovative approaches to conflict resolution.
Engaging younger generations in the political process is also vital. Encouraging youth to transition from activism to voting is challenging but necessary. Voting is a powerful tool for change, and young people need to recognise its importance in shaping their future.
The EU has an important role to play in global peacebuilding. To fulfil this role, it must ensure the inclusion of women, actively listen to youth, and provide adequate funding for multilateral efforts. A coherent and comprehensive approach to conflict prevention, management, and resolution is essential. By taking these steps, the EU can help create a more peaceful and just world for future generations.
Cristina Gallach is Secretary of the Board, Global Women Leaders-Voices for change and inclusion (GWL-voices). Former UN-Under-secretary-general and former Spanish State Secretary for Foreign Affairs.