1. Global PVE workshop Gender and PVE: Focus on women Fauziya Ali

2. Gender and CVE Women and CVE Women Organisation/Network Lessons Learnt Conclusion Overview

3. Gender and PVE/CVE Understanding the gendered dimensions of VE especially in policies concerned with PVE/CVE has fallen short More greater attention is required to the impact of gender on identities roles and relationships between men and women in society Gender roles of men and women in any given society are not static and change over time- Globalization, violent conflict and periods of transition often alter prescribed gender roles Gender is a critical entry point for engaging communities in dealing with and preventing VE

4. Women and PVE Men and boys are assumed to be the key targets of CVE/PVE efforts Women considered as victims or mothers of violent extremists Female violent extremist is a pressing issue ; number increased of women perpetrators, active supporters or encouragers of extremists within communities Working with women in prevention is still largely under supported Addressing the complexities of gender can helps us understand VE better

5. Platform that brings together women working in CVE at community, regional and national level. Formed 2014 out of deep concerns of the effects of violent extremism on communities in Kenya The consortium was a result of the women in preventing extremism project supported by the USIP gender and peace building unit. “Together we are stronger”, each organization has its own strengths from Arts and culture, religious education to advocacy Women organizations are seen to some extent as non polarizing and address grievances that may arise in communities. Have deeper relationships. Sisters without borders

6. Dialogue on security especially advocating for more women to engage on security at the community and national level for example ensuring the national counter radicalization strategy includes the role of women. Working towards women involvement in community policing : Trust building Tapping into women local informal networks(“table banking activities”) to provide alternative narratives and create awareness. Female religious education Role models Provide support groups for women while considered the relevant support that might be required based on the individual needs of the women (focus on women whose child/spouse has joined an extremist group) What we do

7. Building trust amongst stakeholders: This is will take time as the level of trust between communities and law enforcement is very low. Fear of who you could be engaging with Lack of a predefined national policy/strategy of engaging with returnees Little or lack of support groups for women Women lacking confidence to speak up. This is also attributed to fear of being investigated. Few women at the “table” supporting/ making decision on security. Challenges

8. Space to dialogue is available Empower women on community policing and PVE Use of social programs to bridge the gap and promote trust between security actors and community Using female Ulamaas provided space for the women to share their stories and seek counseling. Exchange programs to foster learning and knowledge sharing across the region Lessons

9. All: Stop auxiliary positioning or assumptions around role of women as part of the solution or part of the problem State Actors: Involve women and women organizations in policy or strategy formulation. Women Organization are part of national, regional and community actors and can provide practical examples and promote buy in. Development Partners: Gender lens matters especially when designing PVE programs. Gender lens upholds the Do no Harm principles! Women: Your voice counts so please speak!. Conclusion