Women are often targeted in violent conflicts, as armed forces seek to demoralize their opponents, and they are often not included in negotiations to end these conflicts. This study guide examines both how women are affected by war and contribute to peace, as well as how the international community is addressing these issues.

This study guide series is designed to serve independent learners who want to find out more about international conflict and its resolution, as well as educators who want to introduce specifics topics in their courses. The main text of each guide briefly discusses the most important issues concerning the topic at hand, especially those issues that are related to the critical task of managing conflicts and building international peace.

Features of the study guide include:

  • Main text that discusses the role gender plays in conflict and how the international community is wrestling with this issue.
  • A glossary of terms.
  • Discussion questions and activities to encourage critical thinking and active learning.
  • A list of readings and multimedia resources for additional investigation and learning opportunities.

The study guide can be used by teachers and students to:

  • Increase understanding of the complex environment of conflict and the importance of bringing gender into peacebuilding.
  • Become familiar with strategies for conflict prevention, management, and resolution.
  • Develop students’ analytical reading, writing, and research skills.
  • Reinforce students’ abilities to produce a work product using traditional and electronic means of research, discussion, and document preparation.
  • Locate lessons, bibliographic sources, factual materials, and multimedia resources to assist students in writing essays for submission to the National Peace Essay Contest.

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