The Role of Women Combatants and Non Combatants in Peace and Security in Uganda

Abstract

This study examined the role of women combatants and noncombatants in international peace efforts using the case of Uganda. The study employs the gender perspective theory (Hooks 1984) and a maximalist approach to security. The study employed a documentary review, a secondary data collection method that entails engagement with books, magazines, newspaper reports, journals, and articles linked to the research (Creswell, 2014). Findings indicate that women combatants and non-combatants provide security in the areas of prevention and detection of crime, protection of life, property, and rights of the individual, enforcement of laws, ensuring public safety and security and community policing. Similarly, women have been involved in international peacekeeping, building & enforcement operations for United Nations and various regional bodies. Women are involved in preventive diplomacy and gender balance at the international, regional and national levels, and provide food and shelter to fight famine, disease and homelessness . Women are involved in the agricultural sector, providing income to families, communities and nations through informal sector investment. Women’s role and involvement in providing security is low compared to their male counterparts due to historical injustices, gender roles, and illiteracy, the traditional conceptualization of security, cultural beliefs, attitudes & stereotypes. The study recommends need for enhancement of sensitization, inclusion, and appreciation of women in providing security by increasing their participation in decision-making at all levels, improving the conditions of service, increasing women’s access to credit in the public and private sector to attract others, embracing security sector reforms and increasing government commitment to implementation of UNSCR 1325. Deliberate efforts should be made by states to increase the participation of women in providing security by minimizing structural, economic, and cultural hinderances at all levels because, without sustainable security cannot be achieved without their participation.