THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN ENSURING PEACE AND DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

Contemporary international politics is increasingly characterized by state actors adopting pragmatic approaches, prioritizing the pursuit of national interests over adherence to the principles of equality and justice. It is an undeniable fact that women and children are among the most affected by the increasingly tense and complex global situation, which is driven by geopolitical rivalries, unconventional threats, and the consequences of climate change. Three-quarters of the world’s population living in extreme poverty reside either in Sub-Saharan Africa or in fragile, conflict-affected countries. In 2023, nearly 612 million women and girls lived within 50 kilometers of 170 active armed conflicts—a 41% increase since 2015. According to the United Nations, conflictrelated sexual violence has risen by 50% since 2022, with women and girls accounting for 95% of the victims. This represents yet another form of violence and discrimination faced by women and children already living in poverty. In today’s era, when every region of the world is confronted with varying degrees of economic and political challenges, protecting the rights and interests of women, enabling them to realize their potential, and ensuring their contribution to societal development have become more urgent than ever. In this context, the article is dedicated to examining the role of women in decision-making processes, their participation in conflict resolution, and aspects of gender equality related to achieving sustainable development, as well as the international legal dimensions of the principle of gender equality. The author present her scientific conclusions by analyzing these issues through specific case studies