India's Commitment to Gender Parity

Mains Marks Booster 27th July 2023

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Introduction: India recently deployed a platoon of women peacekeepers in Abyei, bordering Sudan and South Sudan, as part of the Indian Battalion in the United Nations Interim Security Force.

UN Mandate and Role of Female Engagement Teams (FETs)

The United Nations has called upon member states to deploy female engagement teams (FETs) with infantry battalion groups in UN Missions.
The objective is to address the specific needs of women and children who suffer the most in conflict situations.
FETs undertake various tasks, including joint patrols, engaging in dialogue with local women and girls, providing assistance during humanitarian crises, gathering information, and managing perceptions.

India's Commitment to Gender Parity

The United Nations aims for at least 19% women officers in the total vacancies released to the Army.
India has surpassed this goal by sending 21% women officers to the peacekeeping mission.
Women peacekeepers complement the roles of police and paramilitary contingents, ensuring law enforcement and empowerment of the local population.

UN Security Council Resolution 1325 (UNSCR1325)

UNSCR1325, along with subsequent resolutions and the Action for Peacekeeping (A4P) Declaration of Shared Commitments, highlights the need for expanding the role of women in UN operations.
Promoting women's participation in peace processes and enhancing gender-responsive peacekeeping operations are at the center of the UN's efforts.

Action for Peacekeeping (A4P) Initiative

The A4P initiative recognizes the critical role of the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda in improving peacekeeping operations.

Conclusion: By showcasing "Nari Shakti" (women power) in peacekeeping missions, India contributes to the UN's efforts towards gender parity and the empowerment of women in peace and security.