Published:
March 28, 2025
Exploring networks for women peacebuilders: Findings
We are delighted to publish two new reports from a project that explored interest in international networking among women peacebuilders in Northern Ireland, Iraq and Colombia. Findings highlight that there is strong interest in building networks, which participants in this early feasibility study felt would support information sharing, solidarity and developing effective action. However, findings also show that women working within peacebuilding are already at capacity, and developing networks requires resourcing, in terms of time, resources and funding.
Women’s Platform was delighted to work with Gender Action in Peace and Security, who supported engagement with women peacebuilders in Iraq and Colombia. This project identifed clear recommendations for next steps, and there was also significant learning on effective, inclusive and supportive models for engaging with women peacebuilders across (post)conflict regions. The next stage will involve exploring opportunities to develop further work based on project recommendations.
The project included commissioning research into the extent of international networking of women peacebuilders in Northern Ireland, which shows that there has been extensive networking in some areas, but that networks have developed organically and built on key relationships. The evidence base report, produced by Dr Avila Kilmurray through the Social Change Initiative, also sets out clear recommendations supporting resourcing and effective structuring of further networks.
This project was developed and delivered in collaboration with the Northern Ireland Office and supported by the Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office through the UK National Action Plan for women, peace and security.
