An Examination Of The Role Of Women In Conflict Management: Sierra Leone A Case Study

This paper examines the role of women in conflict management, using Sierra Leone as a case study. It argues that despite the traditional challenges women faced they were able to contribute significantly to the conclusion of the 11-year civil war in Sierra Leone, and have since earned a position of respect in society that has given them a larger role to play in government, politics and the private sector. Major barriers remain, but a brighter future has been created. Furthermore, this paper recommends constructive actions that should be taken to assure that the productive involvement of women continues. Introduction:  1)the aims and objectives of the study  2)the justification of the research  3)a statement of the problem  4)the significance of the study  5)the scope and limitations of the study  6)methodology. Chapter One will deal with the history of Sierra Leone before, during and after the Civil War, including: A brief history of the rebel war—1991-2002; the interventional roles played by various local, regional and international forces; the First Intervention: Executive Outcomes and Women’s Roles; the Second Intervention: The Economic Community of West African States; and the Third and Fourth Interventions: United Nations and British Forces. Chapter Two incorporates a literature review of the role of women before, during and after the war: the role of women played in managing the conflict during the war; the role women in resolving the conflict in Sierra Leone; the contribution of FEMMES Africa Solidarity (FAS) to women’s movements in Sierra Leone; women’s roles in the negotiation of the Lomé Peace Accord and the consolidation of peace; the increased role of women in politics; and women and the implementation of UN Resolutions 1325 and 1820 in Sierra Leone. Chapter Three discusses the role of women in the intervention of various regional and international forces: understanding the critical role played by women and women’s groups in the UN and British interventions. Chapter Four: Conclusion and Recommendations.