Part of our International Women’s Day series on women, peace and security.

Women’s meaningful participation in political and peace processes is fundamental to sustainable justice. This International Women’s Day draws attention to the reality that peace negotiations and community mediation efforts often exclude women’s voices, despite the fact that inclusive processes produce more durable outcomes. In post-conflict environments, weak institutions frequently limit women’s access to political platforms just when their perspectives are most needed.

In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) has supported networks of women mediators across multiple provinces for nearly a decade. These networks engage in land dispute resolution, community dialogue and early warning systems. In Bunia, local mediation supported by the mission helped reopen the Mandro market after years of closure due to conflict, demonstrating how women’s participation can directly contribute to economic recovery and social cohesion.

At the national level, a Women’s Advocacy Task Force launched in January 2025 brought together more than 80 women leaders to influence ongoing peace processes. Their work produced a reference framework for regional actors, reinforcing that women’s participation is not optional but integral to legitimate and effective peacebuilding. International Women’s Day serves as a reminder that strengthening women’s political agency strengthens justice systems and long-term stability.

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