Author(s) :

VICTORIA Nkechi Azu, PhD.

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Abstract :

This paper explored the intricate relationship between gender and peacebuilding and its impact on national development. The study was necessitated by the consideration that women's participation in decision-making and peace negotiations is essential for a more inclusive and durable agreements. However significant challenges such as gender norms, inequalities, and power dynamics intersect to influence peace processes, hindering full inclusion of women and the promotion of gender equality in peacebuilding efforts. Excluding women from peace effort denies the society the benefits derivable from exploring women’s unique potentials in establishing social justice which is indispensable for development. The objectives of the study include among others to examine the dynamics of gendered approaches to peace building; interrogate the specific role of women in peace building, assess the challenges to gender-inclusive peacebuilding in Nigeria, as well as its impact on national development. The Feminist Peace and Conflict theory was adopted. Data was sourced basically from secondary sources through desk research; while employing qualitative method based on content analysis to interpret and analyse data. Findings showed that women are effective in grassroot mobilization, identifying early warning signs, advocate for inclusive peace agenda, psychologically restore and re-integrate victims, while implication for development include higher rate of negociation success, effective intervention, greater political legitimacy, sustainable recovery etc. Recommendations include: peace building programmes to be planned and implemented on the basis of gender; stakeholders should prioritise conflict-sensitive gender work to enable both women and men meet their needs; provide adequate security for women peace builders and whistle blowers. Keywords: Gender, Peace building, Development, War, Conflict

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