In many parts of Africa, structural inequality continues to shape who can take part in governance and peacebuilding, and who has real influence over decisions. Women play important roles in preventing conflict and building community cohesion, yet their participation in formal peace negotiations and political decision-making remains limited. This is the starting point for the event.
At the same time, a new generation of women leaders is emerging in parliaments, local government, mediation and civil society. Women are also underrepresented in political and senior decision-making in Japan, and the event stresses that Africa and Japan can learn from each other's experience.
Speakers include representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, UNDP, JICA, a university researcher and the Ambassador of Rwanda to Japan. A panel discussion and Q&A will explore practical approaches to strengthening women's leadership and building more inclusive, sustainable peacebuilding.
Key points
- A chance to consider the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda from both African and Japanese perspectives
- Attend in person in Kobe or online via Zoom, with interpretation in Japanese, English and French
- Free to join; register for in-person or online attendance on the JICA website
Why we recommend this event
How women take part in peace and political decision-making matters well beyond Africa, including in Japan. Opportunities to hear on-the-ground practice and international agencies' work together are rare.
For students, NGO staff and anyone interested in international cooperation, it is a good entry point to understanding Africa today and Japan's role.
Editor's comment
Peacebuilding can sound distant, but the question of who gets a seat at the table is close to home for many organizations and communities.
If your schedule allows, please join in person or online. Registration is on the official website.