Goma, September 13, 2024 – The issue of the under-representation of women in local peace processes in the Democratic Republic of Congo remains a worrying and complex subject. While women constitute 52% of the population, their participation in conflict resolution bodies in North Kivu is still largely limited, deplores Blandine Masemo Zaina, expert in gender and development.
This alarming reality raises profound questions about the place of women in building sustainable peace. Despite the numerous resolutions adopted by the Congolese government, such as the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on women, peace and security, women remain largely excluded from decision-making processes related to peace and security.
It is essential to deconstruct the stereotypes and prejudices that limit women’s participation in these processes. Women must be seen not only as victims of conflict, but above all as potential actors of peace. Their exclusion hinders the quality and sustainability of peace agreements, as women’s concerns and priorities often differ from those of men.
Therefore, it is imperative to actively involve rural women in peace initiatives. Their exclusion not only compromises the effectiveness of peace agreements, but also harms the construction of an inclusive and sustainable peace. Past experiences have shown that peace agreements that include women’s voices are more likely to be accepted and respected by the entire population.
In a province like North Kivu, marked by recurrent conflicts and persistent violence, the inclusion of women is an essential component to achieve a truly sustainable peace. The efforts of women’s rights advocates and groups are vital to raise awareness of the importance of including women in peace processes and to promote a more just and equal society.
In short, the under-representation of women in peacemaking bodies in North Kivu is a major obstacle that must be overcome to ensure a peaceful and prosperous future for the entire population. The inclusion of women is not only a matter of justice, but also a necessity to build sustainable and inclusive peace in this region ravaged by conflict and violence.