Rep. Schakowsky Statement on The Role of Women in Conflict Resolution

House Foreign Affairs Committee

Hearing on Women Fighting for Peace: Lessons for Today’s Conflicts

March 22, 2016

Jan Schakowsky submitted the following statement for the record to the House Foreign Affairs Committee on the important role that women must play as stake holders in conflict resolution around the world:

"Thank you, Mr. Chairman and Ranking Member for allowing me to provide a statement for this hearing.

The United States is currently working to end conflicts all over the world, including the effort to end the current crisis in Syria. However, in recent history, peace agreements and peace processes have fallen apart at an astounding rate. Part of the reason for these failures is the failure to include a broad range of stakeholders, particularly women, at the negotiating table. In the Democratic Republic of Congo and in South Sudan, ongoing violations of human rights, particularly affecting women, undermine all efforts to bring about a lasting peace.

We also know the opposite is true. I am thrilled that Ms. Bigome and Ms. McWilliams can speak to the successes that they have seen with the inclusion of women in the peace processes in Uganda and Northern Ireland.

Women and girls are disproportionate victims of war and violence. As we move forward with efforts to prevent violent conflict, it is crucial to ensure that women are also partners and decision makers. We know that the more women are able to have a voice in the political process, the more we are able to counter the spread of violent extremism and work against the propaganda forces of groups like ISIS.

In 2011, the President announced the National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security. The National Action Plan makes clear that the meaningful inclusion of women in peace and security processes is imperative for our national and global security. Research and experience has shown that when women and girls are partners in all aspects of decisionmaking – whether it be at the peace table or in government – countries are more likely to experience peace and prosperity. The National Action Plan also provides the foundation for trainings conducted by Foreign Service Officers as well as conflict and violence prevention efforts.

However, the actions from the Administration are not enough. I plan to introduce legislation to further support the meaningful inclusion of women in political and peace processes, and I hope to gain the support of many members of this committee. My bill will enable Congress to exercise oversight over full implementation of the National Action Plan, including requiring the Administration to report annually to Congress on efforts to encourage women to take roles as mediators and negotiators.

I thank the Committee again for bringing attention to this important subject, and I look forward to working with you to advance the meaningful inclusion of women in efforts to create peace and security."