Since its adoption, the United Nations has been instrumental in advancing the Women, Peace and Secruty (WPS) Agenda worldwide, partnering with women and supporting implementation on the ground.
In peacekeeping missions, civilian and uniformed personnel have promoted women’s participation in political and peace processes, safeguarded women’s rights, engaged with women’s civil society organizations, and embedded gender-responsive approaches across operations.
The implementation of the WPS Agenda continues to challenge male-dominated structures in the fields of peace and security, as well as social and cultural norms in host countries, driving much-needed change in peacekeeping contexts.
Over the past 25 years, Member States, civil society, women leaders, grassroots networks, and think tanks have driven progress and achieved tangible impact in countries emerging from crisis.
Yet today, in the face of mounting global challenges, the WPS agenda stands at a pivotal crossroads.
To mark the 25th anniversary of the WPS Agenda and highlight the indispensable contributions of women peacebuilders, peacekeepers, and human rights defenders, the Department of Peace Operations and the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, in collaboration with UN Women and the Elsie Initiative Fund, have brought the “Through Her Lens: Women Rising for Peace” exhibition to the Visitors Lobby of UN Headquarters in New York.
The exhibit will provide a platform for advocacy and engagement with Member States, UN staff, and women leaders, spotlighting women’s leadership in advancing peace and security while underscoring the collective responsibility to sustain momentum on the WPS agenda.
Stop by to see the powerful photos and stories through 17 December.
