ABSTRACT
The impact of conflicts and wars has been catastrophic for the people of South Sudan although the experiences cannot be homogenised due to gender differences. The chapter aims to demonstrate that the experiences of women during conflicts are fundamental and should be recognised and included in the peace-building processes.
The chapter argues that peace-building initiatives in South Sudan are unlikely to achieve the intended objectives without the integration of women's views. Whereas women have been portrayed as passive and victims of war, they are resilient, and have used their agency and social capital to keep the human spirit alive during difficult times. Limited legal and political power has not hindered them from contributing symbolically to the wars, families and conflict resolution initiatives at home and in the diaspora (Arabi 2011). In the case of South Sudan, the research points out that gender stereotyping convoluted with femininity and masculinity continues to obstruct their chances of sitting at the peace negotiating tables. The chapter concludes that the mainstreaming of women's inclusion in peace processes will promote gender equity; advance their position in society, tackle sexism and strengthen all pillars of peace-building in South Sudan.
