Is Human Security a Feminist Peacebuilding Tool?

Citation:

Porter, Elisabeth. 2008. “Is Human Security a Feminist Peacebuilding Tool?” Paper presented at the International Studies Association’s 49th Annual Convention, San Francisco, CA, March 26-29.

Author: Elisabeth Porter

Abstract:

Women are both victims of war and agents of peace as recognized by the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 (UNSCR 1325) on 'Women, Peace and Security' (2000). This paper has three aims. First, it offers a brief critical analysis of the broadening of security studies to encompass human security. Second, it gives a short outline of different ways that feminist scholars understand security, explaining the rationale for the gendering of human security. Third, I maintain that human security is a peacebuilding tool and offer reasons why it has particular appeal for feminists. By tool, I mean it provides an emancipatory framework within which to judge whether concrete goals further just peace with security. I suggest that feminist ethics affords an analytic tool through which to understand our responsibilities for human welfare by practicing political compassion. I assess the applicability of this tool in terms of UNSCR 1325.

Topics: Feminisms, Gender, Women, Security, Human Security, UN Security Council Resolutions on WPS, UNSCR 1325

Year: 2008