In a resounding display of unity and determination, over 200 South Sudanese women leaders, alongside representatives from diverse sectors, gathered on October 25-26, 2023 in Juba for the 3rd Annual National Conference on Women, Peace, and Security. Against the backdrop of the conference’s theme, “Building Inclusive Democracy: Women’s Leadership and Political Participation,” the women articulated a powerful vision for a more democratic and inclusive South Sudan.
The conference, organized in partnership with a coalition of organizations including Eve Organization, the National Ministry of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare, Cordaid, Plan International and Christian Aid, showcased the collective strength of South Sudanese women in championing their cause.
The event was attended by officials from the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) and representatives from civil society, youth groups, academia, and the media, symbolizing the widespread support for women’s issues in the nation.
Amidst an atmosphere charged with fervor and hope, the conference participants delved deep into the challenges hindering women’s political engagement.
Discussions revolved around pivotal issues such as Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, the lack of understanding of electoral laws, and the alarming low levels of women’s political participation in the country. Notably, the women leaders emphasized the pressing need to break down language barriers by translating essential policy documents into popular versions and local languages, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of crucial information at the grassroots level.
From these earnest deliberations emerged a set of strategic recommendations that are poised to reshape the landscape of women’s involvement in South Sudanese politics. The conference participants directed these recommendations toward the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU), International donors, UN agencies, INGOs, Civil Society Organizations, and women-led groups.
Among the key points highlighted were urgent calls for the RTGoNU to expedite the implementation of transitional security arrangements, reconstitute vital bodies, adopt cooperative federalism, and pass critical bills aimed at empowering women.
Donors and international organizations were urged to provide financial support to women’s initiatives, establish specific funds for elections, and empower women candidates at grassroots levels.
This conference and the resulting recommendations signify a groundbreaking stride towards a more inclusive democracy in South Sudan. By tackling the systemic challenges that have hindered women’s political participation head-on and by presenting tangible, strategic solutions, these women leaders continue to set powerful precedents.
NOTE: The event yielded a joint communiqué outlining pivotal recommendations and initiatives aimed at empowering women in the political sphere.
Donload Communique:Final-Communique-Annual Women’s Conference-Oct-2023
