Assessment of the evidence of links between gender equality, peacebuilding and statebuilding. Literature review.

Abstract

This report offers an overview of the literature on gender, peacebuilding and statebuilding. It is part of a broader study commissioned by the UK Department for International Development (DFID) to review existing evidence, and to develop a practice-oriented analytical framework to guide the more effective integration of a gender perspective into peacebuilding and statebuilding efforts and programmes. The report presents the findings from the first phase of the study, (i) to assess the evidence on gender-sensitive approaches to peacebuilding and statebuilding in order to achieve gender equality outcomes in fragile and conflict-affected situations (FCAS) and on how such approaches add value to peacebuilding and statebuilding processes; and (ii) to identify knowledge gaps.

The report comprises five main sections. Section 1 provides an overview of the extent to which the general international policy and academic literature on peacebuilding and statebuilding incorporates gender issues and develops gender-sensitive approaches. Section 2 examines the literature on the experiences of women in FCAS. It looks specifically at gender inequality, discrimination, changing gender roles and responsibilities and gender-based violence (GBV). Section 3 reviews the evidence on women’s political settlements and political voice in peacebuilding and statebuilding processes, examining peace agreements and first post-conflict constitutions; post-conflict governance, focusing on first elections and political participation; and transitional justice. Section 4 reviews the literature on gender-responsive support to the building of core state functions and services and responsive state action, focusing on justice and security, basic service delivery and women’s economic empowerment. Section 5 provides analytical conclusions and a summary of key gaps in the literature and recommends areas for further research.

Citation

Domingo, P.; Holmes, R.; Rocha Menocal, A.; Jones, N.; Bhuvanendra, D.; Wood, J. Assessment of the evidence of links between gender equality, peacebuilding and statebuilding. Literature review. ODI, London, UK (2013) vii + 76 pp. [ODI Report, December 2013]

Assessment of the evidence of links between gender equality, peacebuilding and statebuilding. Literature review.

Published 1 January 2013