AbstractsWomens Studies

Only in the past decade has the international community begun to recognize the importance of studying women’s roles and experiences in civil wars, and to use their expertise and active participation in peace building and reconstruction efforts. This idea was formalized in the Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security that was adopted on 31 October 2000. This resolution recognizes the important contribution that women can make towards international peace and security, and acknowledges the specific issues that affect women in armed conflict such as sexual and gender-based violence. The aim of this study is to examine the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security in UN peacekeeping operations, with specific reference to Liberia as a case study. The study particularly focuses on the deployment of the all-female Indian Formed Police Unit in Liberia, which is considered a part of United Nations Mission in Liberia’s strategy of implementing UNSCR 1325. The study seeks to address two broad questions. First, how does the all-female Indian Formed Police Unit reflect UN efforts to implement UNSCR 1325 in Liberia? Secondly, what is the operational impact of the all-female Indian Formed Police Unit on the UN peacekeeping operation in Liberia? A key element of this case study is based on in depth interviews with the Force Commander of the all-female Indian Formed Police Unit in Liberia, Annie Abraham, and four of the women police officers in her contingent.