Abu dhabi: The Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy (AGDA) and the Emirates Centre for Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR), in collaboration with key regional and global partners, concluded the fourth meeting of the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Working Group for the Arab States region.
According to Emirates News Agency, the meeting, held in Abu Dhabi from 10th to 12th September, brought together over 20 women peace actors, policy experts, and practitioners from across the region. The dialogue advanced efforts to align Arab priorities with the global WPS agenda, especially as its 25th anniversary at the United Nations approaches in 2025.
One of the significant outcomes of the meeting was the finalization of a regional White Policy Paper. This document, developed through a series of consultations throughout 2024 and 2025, outlines shared priorities and practical recommendations to strengthen the implementation of the WPS agenda. It is set to be presented during the United Nations Security Council Open Debate on Women, Peace and Security in October 2025.
Dr. Mohammed Al Dhaheri, Deputy Director General of AGDA, emphasized the importance of the meeting in ensuring Arab women's voices are central to peacebuilding efforts. He highlighted the region's wealth of experiences and insights that can contribute to effective and lasting peacebuilding solutions. Dr. Ebtesam Al Teneiji, Advisor for Strategic Affairs at ECSSR, noted the UAE's role as a model in empowering women in peace efforts.
The White Paper assesses the current landscape of WPS implementation in the region, identifying gaps and areas requiring urgent attention. It stresses the need for locally relevant approaches to address the impact of conflict and occupation on women and girls.
Dr. Moez Doraid, Regional Director for UN Women in Arab States, described the adoption of the White Policy Paper as a landmark achievement for the Arab region. He noted that it reflects the voices of women peacebuilders and policy leaders, providing a path toward more inclusive peace processes.
Karma Ekmekji, Lead Advisor for the WPS Regional Hub at the Issam Fares Institute in Beirut, stated the importance of centering women's leadership and forging regional partnerships to ensure the WPS agenda remains dynamic and responsive to the region's realities.