A gender-responsive approach for addressing the impact of terrorism and violent extremism in Africa

Across Africa, ongoing terrorist threats intersect with complex insecurity challenges, socio-economic instability, and climate-related crises that disproportionately impact women and girls. Despite extensive regional and global commitments emphasizing the essential role of women in peace and security efforts, their participation in counterterrorism (CT) and prevention of violent extremism (PVE) decision-making processes remains limited.

Recognizing this gap and building on previous global and regional convenings on the gendered dimensions of CT/PVE, UN Women organized an interregional symposium in Nairobi from 7–9 October 2024. The purpose of the symposium was to discuss the situation of women in CT/PVE governance, policy, and practice in Africa, and it brought together over 40 representatives of civil society and women’s rights organizations from the Sahel, East Africa, the Horn of Africa, and Central and Southern Africa.

The symposium aimed to enhance interregional dialogue, facilitate knowledge exchange, and consolidate partnerships and networks to increase inclusive, gender-responsive approaches to security service provision in general and to counter terrorism and PVE, given Africa’s specific context. It also sought to assist participants in identifying joint priorities and strengthening their capacity to engage effectively in security sector discussions in contexts impacted by terrorism and violent extremism, and to contribute to CT/PVE processes and mechanisms at all levels.

The event culminated in a joint public statement urging regional actors and the international community to consolidate efforts to uphold WPS commitments and to ensure a gender-sensitive approach to increasing human security through CT/PVE efforts.