An Assessment of the Impact of Gender Equality on Nonviolence Change
Abstract
Peacebuilding is essential for ensuring survival and sustainability of the human race. Recent studies have come to show that peacebuilding processes through nonviolence initiatives are more likely to succeed in conflict prone societies. However, few studies have examined the link between nonviolence change and gender equality. Through systematic review of literature, this research study examines the impact of gender equality in nonviolence and peace building initiatives in conflict prone societies. Specifically, the paper examines the characteristic role women can play in reducing conflict through nonviolence means, and argues that due to their feminine qualities and caregiving nature women have the potentials for peacebuilding during or after communal conflicts. It analyzes the gender dimensions of conflict and highlights how gender relations and distinct notions of masculinity constrain the mobilization of women in nonviolent peacebuilding processes. The paper recommends the application of a theory of change and policy shift that will utilize data on the present informed roles of women in nonviolence processes. The paper also calls for a nuanced evaluation of ‘resistors’ or ‘resistant factors’- especially the impact of masculine cultures and dominance that hinder women’s active engagement in nonviolence and peace building processes in the grassroots.