On 20 November, more than 150 uniformed women joined an online event celebrating two years of the Pilot Network for Uniformed Women Peacekeepers in the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
It also marked one year in the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA), and for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO).
“The network gives us a sense of belonging…that we are not working in isolation,” says Major Swathi Shantakumar (UNMISS).
Since its launch in 2023, the network has connected more than 1300 uniformed women from the military, police, justice, and corrections components across the three missions.
Sharing successes and helping each other
The Pilot Network for Uniformed Women Peacekeepers is a useful platform for women to exchange lessons and support each other across missions. Major Melanie Zatloukal (MINURSO) says the network reminded her that “there are people I can reach out to for help.”
“We bring our success stories, and we help each other,” states Chief Superintendent of Police Zainab Gbla (UNISFA).
For Corrections Officer Phaello Olivia Malataliana (UNMISS), “The network event with former UNMISS Police Commissioner Christine Fossen inspired us to be ambitious and strengthen our leadership skills, while always upholding professionalism and integrity.”
The network elevates the voices of uniformed women, ensuring their perspectives inform peacekeeping strategies, such as the Uniformed Gender Parity Strategy for UN Peacekeeping.
In the words of Acting Military Adviser, Major General Cheryl Pearce, it “turns individual stories into collective insight, which is a powerful drive of change. These networks don't just support women, they strengthen peacekeeping.”
Impactful events
The network hosts events with Force Commanders, Police Commissioners, Sector Commanders, and Uniformed Chiefs of Staff.
This has helped uniformed leaders “connect with women under their command and hear their specific perspectives and challenges,” according to UNMISS Force Commander, Lieutenant General Mohan Subramanian.
“My wish it to maintain the network ... share good practices and experiences across missions, and work together toward a stronger female presence in peacekeeping,” shares Squadron Leader Adeline Asante-Kwabiah (UNISFA).
The Network for Uniformed Women Peacekeepers is coordinated by the DPPA-DPO Office for Coordination and Shared Services, in partnership with the Office of Military Affairs, the Police Division, and the Justice and Corrections Service, with support from Germany.
Questions? Contact dpo-womenpknetwork@un.org.
