Importance of the Implementation of Gender Perspective in Post-Conflict Peacebuilding in Liberia

Abstract

In the past few decades, the gender perspective of peacekeeping operations has attracted significant attention from researchers, policymakers and the media. Given that peacekeeping operations are one of the most effective instruments for conflict resolution, understanding the disproportionate impact of violent conflicts on women and girls is key to understanding the issue of a gender perspective in peacekeeping operations. Respecting their different experiences in conflicts is not just justfied, it is also essential for post-conflict peacebuilding. The United Nations peacekeeping operation in Liberia (UNMIL) is considered as one of the most successful and serves as an exceptional example of a peacekeeping operation in which the presence of female peacekeepers in the contingent, as well as the timely and adequate implementation of a gender perspective, inspired local women to participate in peace and security efforts. This has proved useful not only for the peacekeeping operation, but also for strengthening efforts to create a stable and inclusive post-conflict society. Therefore, the implementation of a gender perspective in peacekeeping operations is an imperative not just in theory, but also in practice, representing an essential element for the success of peacekeeping operations and successful post-conflict peacebuilding.