Analyzing The Dimension of Women’s Participation in Conflict Resolution in South Sudan

Based on the prevalent under-representation of women in peace processes, this study analyses why women’s participation in conflict resolution is crucial particularly in South Sudan. South Sudan as one of the youngest nations in the world, is experiencing a period of civil war where the level of women’s participation in conflict resolution has been very low in past years. The Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (ARCISS) offers an opportunity for women’s participation in peace processes and peacebuilding efforts. As such, South Sudan offers a vivid picture of the necessity to include women in conflict resolution processes. This study examines the different ways in which women participate in conflict resolution processes by exploring the dimensions of their participation. It does this by analyzing three dimensions of participation which include; the political dimension, which explores the rights of women to participate in policy formulation and governance. This dimension examines women’s role in the political, civil and family life in relation to conflict resolution and the legal protection as a method of encouraging conflict resolution. The social dimension mainly focuses on women’s maternal role in peace negotiations particularly the role of women in mobilizing and organizing of women for peace activities as peace ambassadors, and their involvement in matters of health and civic education through projects that empower them. The final dimension is the economic dimension which looks at the inclusion of women’s economic rights and the availability of economic opportunities for women that aid in the rebuilding of South Sudan’s economy. The study also presents the challenges faced by women during conflict resolution processes especially in South Sudan and concludes by providing viable recommendations on how to empower, increase and encourage women’s participation in conflict resolution processes.