Aug
18
2010
From the Better World Campaign:
Demand for peacekeeping has risen dramatically in recent years. As the UN steps up to meet the growing need for building and sustaining peace in conflict zones around the world, women are taking on increasingly important roles as UN peacekeepers.
The very first all-female peacekeeping force arrived in Liberia in 2007. Since then, scores of women have helped to disengage armed forces, protect civilians and promote human rights – all while serving as positive role models to women and girls in Liberia. What’s more, the UN notes that the presence of women peacekeepers in Liberia is reducing the incidence of sexual exploitation.
The very first all-female peacekeeping force arrived in Liberia in 2007. Since then, scores of women have helped to disengage armed forces, protect civilians and promote human rights – all while serving as positive role models to women and girls in Liberia. What’s more, the UN notes that the presence of women peacekeepers in Liberia is reducing the incidence of sexual exploitation.
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon spoke in March on the positive impact of women in peacekeeping:
“Whether interviewing victims of sexual violence working in women’s prisons, assisting female ex-combatants reintegrate into civilian life, or mentoring female police cadets, women personnel have a clear advantage. They can help empower women to rebuild their war-torn countries and act as role models.”
Women are playing an important part in helping to build lasting peace in many nations. They add to UN peacekeeping missions by drawing on a powerful and previously underused set of skills. Including women among peacekeeping ranks is enabling UN missions to foster a safer, more empowering in-country presence.
Join me in thanking the women from around the world who serve as UN peacekeepers.
Sincerely,
About Emily
