ABSTRACT
Peace is an environment allowing for the growth of a civil society that provides personal security for all. The expanded definition of security inherently changes the purpose of peacemaking. Regarding security and protection, women often petition that gender-based violence be considered a violation of any ceasefire or cessation of hostilities and treated as such. Violence and threats not just against women generally, but those who support women’s rights in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have been of special concern there. The spectrum of avenues available for women’s participation in peace actions ranges from acting as mediators and direct participation at the peace process negotiating table as delegates, to observer status, consultations, inclusive commissions, problem-solving workshops, public decision-making and mass action. Consultations are the most broadly used form of inclusionary participation in peace processes. Women were largely excluded from political and other decision-making bodies in Northern Ireland during “the Troubles.”
