A three-day workshop focused on integrating gender perspectives into preventing violent extremism (PVE) strategies concluded successfully in Nouakchott, Mauritania. Hosted from May 20th to 22nd, the event, facilitated by the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI), brought together representatives from not-for-profit and civil society organizations, and women and youth-led groups, showcasing a strong commitment to adopting gender-responsive PVE approaches.
Civil society actors can facilitate and enhance the impact of practical, innovative and sustainable measures due to their ability to connect with all communities and translate global strategies into local and regional realities.
Participants were selected through an open call for expression of interest, which brought together a diverse group of change-makers working in the area of gender equality, prevention of gender-based violence, prevention of violent extremism, conflict prevention and mitigation.
Workshop Highlights
The workshop discussions centered around:
- Barriers to Gender Equality and Combatting Gender-Based Violence (GBV):
- Participants explored systemic barriers hindering gender equality and perpetuating gender-based violence. They identified effective strategies to dismantle these barriers and protect vulnerable populations.
- Gender-responsive PVE Efforts:
- The workshop examined how PVE initiatives can be tailored to be more gender-responsive, recognizing the unique roles and impacts of women and men in preventing violent extremism and ensuring that relevant strategies are inclusive and effective.
- Community Engagement in PVE Initiatives:
- Emphasizing community involvement, this session highlighted successful approaches for engaging local communities in PVE efforts. Participants shared best practices and innovative methods to foster community resilience and collaboration.
Key Recommendations:
The workshop generated several key recommendations to enhance the integration of gender perspectives in PVE initiatives, including:
- Implementing income-generating activities and professional reintegration initiatives, and facilitating access to land.
- Conducting awareness campaigns focused on rural and pastoral populations.
- Establishing rehabilitation and reintegration programs in prisons, along with targeted training for staff, prisoners, legislators, and imams.
- Enhancing social protection policies and improving coordination among civil society organizations, technical and financial partners, and the government.
These recommendations will be further elaborated in a comprehensive document to guide future initiatives and collaborations.
UNICRI extends its gratitude to all participating organizations and partners for their invaluable contributions to this impactful event. Stay tuned for updates and insights as UNICRI continues to empower and support initiatives aimed at fostering a safer and more inclusive world.
Additional Information:
