Moving beyond the UNSCR 1325 framework: Women as economic participants during and after conflict

Conflict has a detrimental effect on the structures of local communities. Current research shows that the direct and indirect effects of conflict are especially destructive for women. Although the call for a gender focus in (post-)conflict countries has garnered international attention with the adoption of Women, Peace and Security Resolutions by the UN Security Council, the issue is still understudied. Often, the interlinkage between the political empowerment of women, violence against women and the economic position of women is overlooked. Yet, coping strategies related to the direct and indirect effects of conflict result in political and economic participation. This integrated effect stresses the importance of understanding the role of women in the post-conflict economy and its relationship to 'social services justice'. This research aims at addressing this issue by looking at the obstacles and opportunities faced by women in terms of economic participation during and after conflict. The theoretical framework is supported by a case study analysis on the recent conflict in Burundi using in-depth interviews and desk research.

Keywords: UNSCR1325; women empowerment; economic participation; Women, Peace and Security; economic development; conflict

JEL Classification code: F51; N47; Z18