The Pilot Network for Uniformed Women Peacekeepers, launched by the UN Department of Peace Operations in 2023, is enhancing collaboration among uniformed women in peacekeeping missions. It connects personnel from police, military, and justice and corrections sectors, fostering peer-learning and mutual support. Initially piloted in the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), the network has expanded to missions in Abyei (UNISFA) and Western Sahara (MINURSO), allowing women to share experiences across components, nationalities, and missions.

Participants emphasize the network’s role in building solidarity and boosting morale. Major Sonyia Devendra Newaskar from UNMISS notes its positive impact on happiness, while Corrections Officer Phaello Olivia Malataliana and Chief Superintendent Zainab Gbla highlight the importance of sharing success stories and challenges. The network brings women together, encouraging collective growth and support across peacekeeping environments.

Beyond connection and support, the network serves as a platform for elevating women's voices within missions and at UN Headquarters. It contributes to shaping policies affecting their work and well-being, and has facilitated discussions on issues like women’s health and sexual harassment. Coordinated by the DPPA-DPO Office for Coordination and Shared Services and supported by Germany, the network is a flagship initiative under the Uniformed Gender Parity Strategy, with plans to include all uniformed women peacekeepers in the near future.

Original story by the UN's Department of Peace Operations

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