The role of women in reconciliation and peace building process in Somalia

Since Siad Barre's rule fell in 1991, Somalia has been at war. It has impacts which are both general and gender specific. In general, there have been deaths, loss of livelihoods, relocations, physical harm, erosion of trust, and loss of social security provided by clan structures, among other things. Women, however, have been disproportionately affected by the conflict due to their gender, and they are often shown as victims alongside children. In addition, women have actively participated in peacebuilding activities to solve these disparities, even if their contributions are largely ignored at the informal level; moreover, even though their contributions are mostly disregarded at an informal level, women have actively contributed to peacebuilding initiatives to overcome these discrepancies. Gender perspective, which includes women's perspectives and needs, not only improves the fulfillment of the wants and interests of the wider population but also responds to women's fundamental human rights as equal participants in those processes. Institutions and people in charge of peace processes and talks become more inclusive and effective when women participate; without a gender perspective, peace processes and negotiations lack substance, which may jeopardize their sustainability. Nevertheless, Women's unique demands and the importance of their contributions to peacebuilding in post-war societies have not been adequately acknowledged by efforts to promote peace. This study aimed to investigate how Somali women contribute to peacebuilding to understand the public's perceptions of this important matter. This research examines how women have experienced war and peacebuilding and gives further insight and critical lessons for international and national organizations working to promote democratic change and peacebuilding. Somali Women's opportunities to take part in peacemaking are quite limited because the country has experienced civil wars, high levels of violence, and a lack of government since the collapse of Said Barre's central government, which has resulted in Somali women losing their legal status and equal rights. However, Although the patriarchal structure of politics-centered clans prevents women from fully participating in peace negotiations, women have actively participated in peacebuilding projects. This study investigates the role of Somali women as peacemakers, proving their unique power and ability to impact societal change through case studies. It claims that if Somali women are given a chance to engage in the country's peacebuilding efforts, they will be able to rebuild peace and prosperity.