The Challenges of Women in Peace-building Initiatives in Enugu State, Nigeria

Abstract

The importance of Peace-building and its effective operation shows the need to involve women in peace practices as an agent of transformation. Women's involvement in peace continuum, conflict resolution and Peace-building initiatives have gained international recognition, their inclusion has been a global discourse due to the impact of violent conflict on women and their resilience in advocating for Peace-building efforts. Therefore, there is a need to tackle obstacles towards their active inclusion as fundamental in arresting and curbing a relapse into violent conflict and social disorder in society. This study examines the challenges confronting women in their inclusion moves. It employs desk review and Key Informant Interviews (KII) using a qualitative and quantitative approach and secondary sources. Content and descriptive analysis were used for data analysis and interpretation. The study adopts intersectionality theory as its theoretical framework establishing other factors exacerbating men’s dominance, inequality and underrepresentation typified by women’s low engagement in Peace-building initiatives. The study concludes that integrating gender-responsive policies targeting identified challenges can inform policy frameworks in curbing these challenges and foster inclusive processes, social and sustainable development, and Peace-building initiatives. Thus, it submits that women should be allowed to form part of governance and decision-making processes to inform inclusive policies to their advantage and enhance their active engagement in governance to impact Peace-building initiatives in the state. Women’s low involvement in Peace-building initiatives has adverse political, social and economic implications on social cohesion. The study recommends inclusive Peace-building initiatives of equitable women’s representation to address low women’s input in Peace-building.