An analysis of women participation in peacekeeping missions since the implementation of UNSCR 1325: A case study of the Namibian Defence Force
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Date
2019
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Publisher
University of Namibia
Abstract
This study was undertaken to assess women participation in peacekeeping missions since the implementation of the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325. The aim of the study was to explore the challenges that hinder women participation in peacekeeping whilst at the same time rejuvenate gender equality as espoused in UNSCR 1325. The UNSCR 1325 calls for an increased role of women in the prevention and resolution of conflicts and in peace-building operations. Therefore, participation of women in peacekeeping missions
remains an important area of research to the discipline of security as it lessens threat to human security. The study was guided by liberal feminism which focus on primary achieving gender equality through security sector transformation whereby both men and women are given equal rights and opportunities for peacekeeping missions. In addition, some aspects of radical feminist theory were also supported which encourages the involvement of women in peacekeeping missions because of their unique skills which them better peacekeepers. This study employed a mixed research design, consisting of both quantitative and qualitative methods to provide a better understanding and explanation on the arguments of women participation in
peacekeeping missions and also to provide better reliability. The sample size of 25 NDF employees was used in the study. The study found that to some extent the NDF has complied with UNSCR 1325 in terms of responsiveness to policy requirements but lacked practical implementation, adherence and commitment. Further, the study found that from the statistics of males and females who
participated in peacekeeping missions from 2014-2018 showed a decrease in women deployments. The study therefore, recommended that the NDF to increase the training slots for potential women to enhance the possibility of having more qualified women to select from and most importantly, encourage women to participate in peacekeeping missions in large numbers.
Description
A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Arts in Security and Strategic Studies
Keywords
Women participation, Peacekeeping