The Inclusion of Women in Post-Conflict Society

Abstract Chapter 6 illustrates how and why measures to include women in post-conflict society may contribute to the prevention of civil war recurrence, particularly in combination with UN leadership. Examining the peace process in Liberia (as a typical case study) and Burundi (as a deviant case study), we find that the incorporation of these provisions in peace agreements helps address the needs of previously marginalized constituencies. It also strengthens pre-existing women’s networks, involving them in implementing, monitoring, and adapting the peace settlement at the grassroots level. The UN can provide critical financial and logistical support and capacity building to strengthen women’s networks and amplify their demands. Therefore, measures to include women in post-conflict society, ensuring their participation in social, economic, and legal initiatives or structures are particularly effective in preventing civil war recurrence when combined with UN leadership of the broader peace process.