ASIAN WOMEN FEEL POWERLESS IN PEACE, SECURITY DISCUSSIONS - OSF POLL

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 20 (Bernama) -- Our Secure Future (OSF) in its new findings on women’s perspectives on security, found that 82 per cent of the women surveyed said that security discussions in their country do not represent them, and 80 per cent do not feel adequately represented among security actors.

Conducted with the Women’s Alliance for Security Leadership/International Civil Society Action Network, the poll revealed that in countries like South Korea, Japan, and China, women often face significant barriers to participating in peace and security efforts, despite their critical perspectives and contributions in the workplace, political spaces, and even at the home front.

However, across Asia, societies are paving the way for a more equitable future for everyone, according to a statement.

One significant development is the growing number of Asian countries adopting National Action Plans (NAPs) on Women, Peace and Security (WPS), with at least 16 Asian nations, including Japan, the Philippines, Indonesia, and South Korea, have developed NAPs to integrate gender perspectives into their peace and security policies, as of 2023.

NAPs serve as crucial roadmaps for governments to address the unique challenges faced by women in conflict and post-conflict situations and to promote their meaningful participation in security and peacebuilding processes.

Currently, Japan has taken a leading role in advancing the WPS agenda in Asia, in which the country’s new WPS framework was inspired by the WPS Caucus model originated by the United States Congress.

Adoption of a similar "WPS Caucus Model" across other national legislatures can ensure accountability in implementing WPS National Action Plans and policies, while Japan's proactive approach to the WPS agenda can inspire other Asian countries, particularly those in the ASEAN region.

ASEAN countries can prioritise the appointment of women in key leadership positions within their governments, especially in ministries and agencies related to peace and security. This step promotes gender equality and ensures that diverse perspectives are considered in decision-making processes.

ASEAN nations can also establish cross-ministerial task forces or working groups dedicated to the WPS agenda, similar to Japan's Taskforce on WPS. These entities can facilitate better coordination and collaboration among various government bodies, organisations, and external experts, leading to the implementation of more effective WPS policies and initiatives.

Moreover, establishing a regional WPS network within ASEAN could enhance collaboration and support sharing resources and expertise. This network would also serve as a platform for advocacy to raise awareness of the WPS agenda.

Asia has a unique opportunity to become a champion in advancing the WPS agenda. As the region faces various security threats, from armed conflicts to climate change-related disasters, prioritising women's participation and leadership in decision-making is more crucial than ever.

-- BERNAMA