Press Release June 13, 2014
NEW WIIS publication on:
Women, Peace and Security: Practical Guidance on Using Law to Empower Women in Post-Conflict Systems
By Julie L. Arostegui and Veronica Eragu Bichetero
Two international human rights lawyers examine practical measures on how to integrate international principles on gender equality and women's rights into post-conflict legal systems with a focus on the Great Lakes region. Arostegui and Eragu Bichetero clarify and demystify international legal principles and national obligations; identify legal tools that can help operationalize principles of gender equality and women's rights in post-conflict processes; provide guidance on how to ensure that equality principles are included in constitutions, national legal frameworks and justice systems; offer strategies how to work with local groups to further gender equality; and share best practices and lessons learned from the Great Lakes region.
The volume is accompanied by two detailed case studies of the legal and institutional framework in Uganda and Rwanda. This publication is an essential read for all practitioners and civil society advocates of gender equality at both a policy and grass roots level. It is chock-full of practical and concrete guidance. It can be accessed at wiisglobal.org
Julie L. Arostegui, J.D., M.A. is a lawyer and international human rights and gender expert with a focus on rule of law, access to justice and peace building. She has over 18 years of experience managing programs related to women's rights and the rule of law in Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe and Latin America. She was a non-resident SIPRI North America/Women In International Security Fellow from 2012- 2013 and is currently director of the Women, Peace and Security Program at WAND (Women's Action for New Directions).
Veronica Eragu Bichetero is a lawyer and advocate of the Courts of Judicature of Uganda. She is Director of EDG Venture Consult in Kampala and is deeply involved in Human Rights in Africa. She has consulted the South Sudan government on post conflict issues.
About WIIS: Women In International Security is the premier global network of women and men dedicated to advancing the leadership and professional development of women in international peace and security. WIIS (pronounced "wise") also supports research, analysis, and policy engagement on the critical nexus between gender and international security. Since its establishment in 1987, WIIS has played an important role in peace and security debates in the United States and abroad and has advanced women's leadership at all levels.