19 September 2023
Women and girls have often been portrayed as passive victims of terrorism and violent extremism. However, recently shifts in views are identifying distinct ways women and girls are involved in and affected by terrorism and violent extremism, but also the constructive role they play in driving peace.
On the margins of the 22nd Coordinating Committee Meeting and the 13th Ministerial Meeting in New York, the GCTF Co-Chairs held a side event held under the auspices of EU High Representative/Vice President and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Egypt. The side event highlighted the extraordinary efforts of women and ushered for more collaboration on multidimensional approaches.
First line practitioners from the Philippines, Kenya, Albania, North Macedonia and Tunisia shared powerful insights, success stories, and engaged in interactive discussions that underscored the indispensable role of women in counterterrorism and in the prevention and countering of violent extremism (P/CVE).
As part of their strategic priorities for a more inclusive, action-oriented GCTF that is responsive to changing needs on the ground, Co-Chairs Egypt and the European Union are focused on promoting women’s participation across the criminal justice chain, as well as promoting gender-sensitive policies in these spaces.
Furthermore, the GCTF Co-Chairs place renewed emphasis on cooperation with the three GCTF Inspired Institutions: The Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund (GCERF), Hedayah, and the International Institute for Justice and the Rule of Law (IIJ).
Watch the video on inspirational women driving peace and security within their local communities.
Learn on more about our good practices: Good Practices on Women and Countering Violent Extremism