Abu dhabi: The General Women’s Union (GWU) has launched the fifth training programme under the Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Women, Peace and Security Initiative. It is held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the GWU, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation.
According to Emirates News Agency, the programme is organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and in coordination with the UN Women Liaison Office for the GCC in Abu Dhabi. Participants from 18 countries, including the UAE, Egypt, Kenya, and others, are taking part in the programme. This initiative aims to strengthen women’s capacities and prepare them to play roles in advancing peace, security, and development in their countries and regions.
The initiative reflects the UAE’s vision to enhance women’s participation in national development and peacebuilding, reaffirming the country’s commitment to gender equality at various levels. This session coincides with the 25th anniversary of Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, adopted by the Council in October 2000.
Noura Khalifa Al Suwaidi, GWU Secretary-General, stated that the launch of the fifth cohort marks a milestone in the journey of empowerment led by H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak. Since 2019, the initiative has evolved into a platform for capacity building and enhancing women’s participation in peace processes. Through this new cohort, participants are expected to contribute to stability and promote peace and sustainable development worldwide.
The programme spans nine weeks, with seven weeks of intensive military training followed by two weeks focused on peacebuilding and peacekeeping. Participants will learn about cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, diplomacy, and foreign policy, equipping them with leadership skills in peace and security.
Training activities are held at the Khawla bint Al Azwar Military School for Women in Abu Dhabi, under the supervision of the Ministry of Defence. This setting allows participants to gain practical experience and specialised knowledge for effective engagement in peace and security fields.
Dr. Mouza Al Shehhi, Director of the UN Women Liaison Office for the GCC, highlighted the strength of the strategic partnership between the UAE and UN Women and their shared commitment to enabling women to play leading roles in their communities. The initiative has become a platform for developing women leaders and advancing their expertise in peacebuilding and sustainable development.
Dr. Al Shehhi added that the launch of the new Strategic Partnership Framework (2024-2027) between the UAE and UN Women reaffirms this commitment and opens new avenues for cooperation to advance women’s empowerment globally.
The UAE is recognised internationally for promoting women’s participation in peace and security. The nation continues to train and qualify women, supporting international efforts to implement UN Security Council Resolution 1325 and reinforcing the role of women in conflict prevention and peacekeeping.
To date, more than 600 women have graduated from the initiative’s previous four cohorts.