Assessment on the Role of Women in Peace and Reconciliation in Oromia and Somali Regional States

Although women are the most affected during conflict, they are in many cases neglected from efforts and decisions made to resolve conflicts. Thus, providing concrete evidence on the role and experience of women in conflict resolution and peacebuilding efforts is timely and crucial to practically engage women in the process, protect them from the consequences of violent conflict, and empower them to contribute to quality and durable peacebuilding efforts in the country. In response to recurring conflicts in Ethiopia, UNDP has initiated a project emphasizing how to increase the role of senior women leaders in conflict prevention, management and mediation processes as a means to contribute to sustained peace and stability in the country. As part of the exercise, assessment of women’s role in peace and reconciliation in Oromia and Somali Regional States is being given urgent priority to generate evidence-based knowledge that supports further interventions.