5th ISA Forum of Sociology (6-11 July 2025)

The critical role of women in conflict resolution and peacebuilding was recognized by UN Security Council Resolution 1325 in 2000. Despite some progress, women's involvement in peace processes remains limited. Conflict-related violence against women has intensified, with civilians increasingly targeted by groups using terror as a war tactic. While men and boys are also victims, women and girls disproportionately face gender-based violence, their bodies often becoming battlegrounds in conflicts.

Women in conflict scenarios are not only victims but also agents of change, actively working to improve their situations and support various factions. Many women participate in combat, offer medical aid, and support armed groups, motivated by a desire for transformation and resilience in overcoming victimization. Their ability to survive atrocities and rebuild war-torn communities through innovative methods is remarkable.

As mothers, wives, sisters, and daughters, women can influence family members to reintegrate into society, helping to mitigate conflict. This session will delve into the pivotal role of women in achieving lasting peace and enhancing their participation in peacebuilding. It will examine the intersection of gender, conflict, and peace, underscoring the transformative potential of women's contributions. Additionally, it will assess the progress and challenges of implementing Resolution 1325, emphasizing the need for greater inclusion of women in peace processes.

We invite scholars, practitioners, policymakers, and activists to discuss women's roles in peacebuilding, aiming for a more inclusive approach to conflict resolution that acknowledges and utilizes the unique contributions of women. Let's ensure women are leaders in shaping a peaceful, just world.