Speaking out against injustice is a political act. And when women speak out for peace and social justice, they can improve everyone’s security. The positive effect of amplifying women's voices is a phenomenon recognized across the globe. Research shows that societies thrive when women are part of policy dialogues, from local communities to developed and developing countries. This principle is ingrained in the mission of Our Secure Future (OSF), founded by Cynda Collins Arsenault and led by Vice President Sahana Dharmapuri. Since its inception, OSF has dedicated itself to advancing the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda, emphasizing the role of women in conflict prevention, resolution, and peacebuilding.
This initiative, deeply rooted in the principles of United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325, aims to reshape the international approach to peace and security by ensuring women's participation and decision-making in these critical areas.
Amplifying Women's Voices in Peacebuilding
OSF's mission is fueled by the belief that society cannot achieve sustainable peace without gender equality.
"The involvement of women in peace processes is not just a moral or ethical choice but a pragmatic one," Dharmapuri asserts. "Statistics and case studies from around the globe unequivocally show that when women are involved, peace agreements are more durable and societies are more resilient."
The organization's initiatives include practical steps to integrate gender perspectives into peace and security frameworks. Through strategic collaborations and thought leadership, OSF is making significant strides in influencing global policies and practices.
“Our Secure Future is committed to supporting the systemic integration of women’s unique perspectives and skillsets in policy settings. With our growing team and expanding work on WPS National Action Plans, OSF is resolved to continue its work at the forefront of strengthening the Women, Peace and Security agenda,” affirms Arsenault.
To showcase this commitment, OSF and the Atlantic Council hosted a significant discussion late last year titled "Assessing the 2023 U.S. Strategy on Women, Peace and Security." The event highlighted the new U.S. Strategy and National Action Plan on WPS, focusing on integrating women into the evolving geopolitical landscape, a massive step toward advancing their representation in peace and security roles. With over 100 people attending, it underscored the organization's role in facilitating critical conversations that aim to broaden the WPS agenda's impact.
This stance is reinforced by 2023 data indicating that peace agreements with female signatories are 35% more likely to last at least 15 years. Despite these compelling statistics, women remain underrepresented in peace and security roles, a gap OSF is determined to close.
The Impact of Inclusivity on Global Peace
However, this quest is not without its challenges. Critics argue that women’s experiences in conflict are not central to peace negotiations or security policy, a viewpoint Dharmapuri is ready to counter: "Incorporating gender perspectives enriches the dialogue with more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of security matters, and it improves security outcomes for everyone. When women’s voices are heard, policy solutions are more effective because they tend to account for the needs of all segments of society."
Our Secure Future is focused on expanding the WPS agenda's reach and impact. With the 25th anniversary of UNSCR 1325 in 2025, Dharmapuri and her team are gearing up for a global push further to cement women's role in peace and security. With each initiative, OSF continues to provide tangible solutions that have begun to reshape the landscape of international peace efforts.
As Sahana Dharmapuri concludes, "The future of peace and security is inseparable from women's equality with men."
Our Secure Future proves the impact of dedicated advocacy and action on Women, Peace, and Security. Cynda Collins Arsenault and Sahana Dharmapuri's leadership and the OSF team's utmost commitment pave the way for a more inclusive world. The journey ahead is still long, but with organizations like OSF putting in the work, the possibility of a world where peace is crafted by all, for all, becomes increasingly attainable.
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