WUNRN
http://www.iss.europa.eu/publications/detail/article/gender-in-conflict/
Via ISN – International Relations & Security Network
Direct Link to
Full 4-Page Document: http://www.iss.europa.eu/uploads/media/Brief_33_Gender_in_conflict.pdf
Gender In Conflict
Christian Dietrich, Clodagh Quain
27 November
2014 - Violent conflict benefits few and tends to exacerbate the negative
consequences of inequalities and marginalisation. The abduction of Nigerian
girls by jihadi militia Boko Haram, the systematic rape carried out during the
Syrian civil war, and the scores of Yezidi girls married off against their will
by Islamic State (IS) in Iraq are some recent arresting examples of violence
affecting girls and women.
Women, men and
children experience and act differently in the context of violence and
post-conflict reconstruction. In order to understand and address the
gender-related consequences of conflict, an exclusive focus on sexual violence
and the portrayal of girls and women primarily as targets has to be overcome.
Such a narrative not only underestimates women’s capabilities for self-help, it
can also hinder their empowerment. Just as men can be more than combatants,
women can be more than just victims. In conflict, they can be civilians,
breadwinners, peacebuilders and, at times, also combatants. By grasping the
broad spectrum of women’s roles, a more nuanced understanding can be gained
about gender in conflict; and more suitable policy responses adopted
accordingly.