Mediation in Sudan and Ethiopia : lessons learnt from the Gambia Track III mediation process

Abstract

In October 2000, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) passed a landmark Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security (WPS). Many African countries have developed the NAPs with few that seem to be implementing the NAP, including South Africa. The Gambia developed its first NAP in 2012. The Gambia has successfully prevented armed conflict by engaging women at the grassroots level to address the root causes of conflict. Women in Gambia have contributed to resolving conflicts using different strategies. Sudan developed its first NAP on implementing UNSC Resolution 1325 in March 2020 after decades of armed conflicts. With the ongoing armed conflict and the limited active participation of women in mediation leadership, it is difficult to notice the implementation of the NAP. Ethiopia does not have a NAP on implementing UNSC Resolution 1325 despite the ongoing armed conflict. Like in Sudan, women in Ethiopia remain underrepresented in efforts to resolve the conflict. The Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) does not seem convincing that it has the capacity, resources and political will to ensure meaningful inclusion of women in resolving conflicts in Ethiopia and Sudan. The IGAD seems to be overwhelmed with armed conflict and civil unrest in different countries in the region. This paper uses qualitative research and desktop literature to analyse the role of women in mediation leadership in both Ethiopia and Sudan and to interrogate lessons that could be learnt from Gambia.