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International Women’s Day, March 8, is different in Jordan. It’s a country surrounded by the region’s conflicts and instabilities, but yet is a safe haven for those fleeing wars and deteriorating situations in Iraq and Syria. The current crisis adds demands and considerations regarding women’s rights that are different from other countries in the world.

“Women, Peace and Security in Jordan: A resolution in Action” was an event held on March 8, 2016 under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Basma Bint Talal, in which United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCr) 1325 was the focus. The event was co-organized by UN Women and The Jordanian National Commission for Women (JNCW) and funded by the Government of Japan. Speakers highlighted the role of women in peace building. In addition to that, the role of Jordanian women in peacekeeping and security forces was discussed. Jordan’s National Action Plan was introduced. It aims to deliver the commitments of UNSCr 1325. This resolution doesn’t only address the impact of war on women, but requires women participation in peace and security decisions.

“Security and peace are two fundamentally indispensable elements for all mankind, men and women,” said Princess Basma in her keynote speech. Throughout her speech, Princess Basma reiterated the vital role of women in peace building. Prior to that, Salma Nims, Secretary General of JNCW said: “A woman isn’t only a victim; a woman is a peace builder.” Two short films were screened; one of them was about Jordanian women in peacekeeping forces. Gieuseppe Belsito, UN Women Country Representative, shared his remarks; and youth volunteers reflected on the importance of the National Action Plan.

The National Actions Plan will be adopted by the end of 2016 hoping that this will help in peace building and ending violence against women.   

This Project was carried out with the aid of a grant from the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), Ottawa, Canada.

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