Fifth Training Programme Under Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Women, Peace And Security Initiative Aims To Empower Women Globally

The General Women’s Union (GWU) has introduced the fifth training programme under the Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Women, Peace and Security Initiative. This programme is supported by H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, who holds several leadership roles, including Chairwoman of the GWU. The initiative is organised with the Ministry of Defence and the UN Women Liaison Office for the GCC in Abu Dhabi.

Participants from 18 nations, including the UAE, Egypt, Kenya, Angola, Yemen, and others, are involved in this comprehensive programme. It aims to enhance women's skills for effective roles in peace, security, and development within their countries and regions. This initiative aligns with the UAE's vision to boost women's involvement in national development and peacebuilding efforts.

The launch coincides with the 25th anniversary of Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security. Adopted in October 2000, this resolution underscores the importance of women in peace processes. Noura Khalifa Al Suwaidi, GWU Secretary-General, stated that this new cohort marks a significant step in empowerment led by H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak.

Since its start in 2019, the initiative has grown into a global platform for building capacity and enhancing women's participation in decision-making processes related to peace. Through this cohort, participants are expected to contribute to stability in their countries while promoting a culture of peace globally.

The nine-week programme includes seven weeks of intensive military training followed by two weeks focused on peacebuilding and peacekeeping. Participants will also learn about cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, diplomacy, international decision-making, and foreign policy. This equips them with leadership skills necessary for roles in peace and security.

All training activities occur at Khawla bint Al Azwar Military School for Women in Abu Dhabi under the Ministry of Defence's supervision. This integrated environment allows participants to gain practical experience and specialised knowledge essential for effective engagement in peace and security fields.

Strategic Partnerships

Dr. Mouza Al Shehhi from the UN Women Liaison Office for the GCC highlighted that successive cohorts demonstrate strong strategic partnerships between the UAE and UN Women. These partnerships reflect a shared commitment to enabling women to lead within their communities and contribute significantly to global peace efforts.

The initiative has become an international platform for developing women leaders in peacebuilding and sustainable development. Its success showcases the UAE’s vision that empowering women is crucial for achieving security and prosperity worldwide.

Global Recognition

The UAE is internationally acknowledged as a leader in promoting women's participation in peace and security sectors. The nation continues to train women extensively within military sectors while supporting international efforts aligned with UN Security Council Resolution 1325.

This ongoing commitment reinforces women's roles in conflict prevention, peacekeeping initiatives, and building safer societies globally. To date, over 600 women have graduated from previous cohorts of this initiative.

With inputs from WAM