The African Union’s Peace and Security Council (PSC) recently highlighted the essential role of women in peacebuilding and security initiatives across Africa, stressing that women’s active involvement in peace processes is crucial at national, regional, and international levels.
In a statement following its October 31 meeting, the PSC urged for stronger female representation in Peace Support Operations (PSOs) and called for the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1325, which advocates for women’s leadership in conflict resolution and peace initiatives.
The PSC also condemned all forms of violence against women in conflict zones, calling for a “zero tolerance” policy towards gender-based violence and reinforcing the protection of women’s rights under international law, Morocco’s Press Agency (MAP) reported.
The PSC’s statement aligns with ongoing efforts within the African Union (AU) and individual member states, such as Morocco, to enhance the role of women in peace and security.
Morocco has been an active contributor to the AU’s peace initiatives, emphasizing women’s participation in diplomacy and security efforts. Morocco’s engagement in these areas includes training programs for women peacekeepers, supporting women’s leadership in conflict mediation, and implementing gender-focused reforms within its military and police forces deployed in peacekeeping missions.
This latest PSC meeting builds on a growing recognition of the gendered and intersectional dimensions of peace and conflict, a concept reinforced in Morocco’s policies.
Morocco actively promotes gender equality through national legislation and international partnerships and has participated in various initiatives to empower women in peacebuilding, both within its borders and in broader African contexts.
Official representatives from Morocco have long advocated for gender inclusivity within the African Union, helping advance policies that recognize women as key agents of stability and development.
Morocco’s contributions underscore a broader commitment to gender-responsive approaches to peace, aligned with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
Through these efforts, Morocco and other African states aim to build sustainable peace by ensuring women are integral to the design, implementation, and monitoring of peace agreements, fostering inclusive growth across the continent.