ACCORD participated in the 10th annual United Nations (UN) High-Level Seminar on Gender and Inclusive Mediation Strategies that took place in Helsinki from 5 to 7 November 2019. The seminar was held in collaboration with the Finnish MFA and the Crisis Management Initiative (CMI).
The seminar sought to generate more consultative processes by promoting women’s active participation and building inclusive, gender-sensitive mediation capacity at international, regional and national levels. It also aimed to disclose the dilemmas of inclusivity and efficiency in mediation, such as how opportunities for women’s participation in mediated processes are affected by culture and local traditions. The seminar was also designed to apply the UN’s normative women, peace, and security frameworks as leverage for mediators as well as offering fresh perspectives.
The seminar provided participants with the opportunity to discuss challenges for inclusion in their work and offered concrete tools and strategies to overcome obstacles. It placed a premium on exchanging experiences, dealing with real mediation dilemmas and difficulties and exploring practical ways for applying international norms.
ACCORD’s participation and contribution during this seminar were in line with ACCORD’s strategic pillar three; on enhancing the role of women in peace processes. ACCORD remains committed to supporting Women, Peace and Security Agenda towards realising sustainable peace in Africa.
