June 12, 2019–Washington, DC–The Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security (GIWPS) applauds the Trump Administration for the release of its Strategy on Women, Peace and Security, which recognizes women’s critical contributions to global peace and security.
GIWPS urges Departments of State, Defense, Homeland Security, and USAID to fully implement the strategy, and we call on Congress to ensure accountability in order to make this an effective mechanism for promoting stable and lasting peace.
The United States is the first country in the world with a comprehensive law on Women, Peace, and Security, and this strategy is designed to advance the U.S. leadership role in its diplomatic, defense, and development missions.
“Now, the world will be watching to see how seriously, purposefully, and effectively we implement this strategy—and how the strategy will address realties around the world,” said Amb. Melanne Verveer, GIWPS executive director.
The U.S. is engaged in mitigating many conflicts around the globe that call for an immediate application of the strategy.
“If implemented comprehensively this strategy presents the United States with an exceptional opportunity to end conflicts by leveraging the expertise and influence of women,” according to Carla Koppell, GIWPS distinguished fellow.
In Afghanistan, the U.S. must enable women’s ‘meaningful participation’ in ongoing peace talks and continue to bolster ‘women’s capacity, credibility, and professional development’ so they can be more effectively involved in future security decisions.
In Yemen, Ukraine, and DRC, the U.S. must prioritize the ‘inclusion of women leaders and women’s organizations in the prevention and resolution of conflict.’
From Sudan, to gang wars in Central America, to the Rohingya crisis Myanmar and Yazidi communities in Iraq, the U.S. must ‘promote the protection of women and girls’ human rights, access to aid, and safety from violence and abuse.’
In post-conflict communities from Colombia, to Liberia, to Bosnia and Herzegovina, the U.S. must ‘support local women’s peace-building organizations’ and ‘seek to ensure women and girls receive equal access to justice.’
“It is going to take political will at the highest levels to fully implement this strategy—and see positive returns for sustainable peace,” said Amb. Verveer.
The Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security seeks to promote a more stable, peaceful, and just world by focusing on the important role women play in preventing conflict and building peace, growing economies, and addressing global threats. We engage in rigorous research, host global convenings, and nurture the next generation of leaders at Georgetown.
Media Contact
Sarah Rutherford, Sarah.rutherford@georgetown.edu