SDG 16 calls for responsive, inclusive, participatory and representative decision-making at all levels, and highlights the role of parliament to promote gender-responsive decision-making (indicator 16.7.1(a)), as a way of promoting peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development. This approach recognizes that women’s peace and security is inseparable from society’s peace and security, and that parliaments have an instrumental role in ensuring that laws concerning peace, justice and inclusion, including issues related to WPS, are discussed and adopted.
Recognizing the value of the UNSCR 1325 to ongoing efforts to protect and promote women’s rights and gender equality, this Handbook provides guidance to parliamentarians on their role in supporting the WPS agenda. It is intended to equip them and those interested in working with MPs with tools to progress the WPS agenda with ideas for action, by showcasing real-life examples from other countries. The Handbook consolidates the lessons learned from UNDP’s Global Project on Parliaments and Civil Society as Partners Supporting the WPS Agenda and complements them with international best practice and evidence on the ways in which parliaments can support women’s participation in peacebuilding and security.
