An Evaluation of the role of women in peace-building diplomacy in Zimbabwe since the 2023 elections

Abstract

This study explored the role of women in peacebuilding diplomacy in Zimbabwe following the harmonised elections of 2023. The research was motivated by the growing recognition of women’s contributions to peacebuilding processes and the persistent challenges that limit their engagement in both formal and informal peacebuilding structures. Despite national, regional, and international commitments to gender equality, women continue to face barriers that constrain their meaningful participation in peacebuilding and decision-making processes. The study examined the roles women play in peacebuilding diplomacy, identified challenges to their participation, and assessed the effectiveness of institutional mechanisms supporting their involvement in Zimbabwe. Framed by Feminist International Relations Theory and Social Constructivism, the research provided a lens for understanding gendered power dynamics and the influence of social norms on engagement with peacebuilding processes. A qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory research design was adopted. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, open-ended questionnaires, and document analysis. Participants included a woman parliamentarian, representatives from civil society organisations, women’s rights activists, and youth leaders. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings show that women are critical actors in peacebuilding diplomacy through conflict prevention, mediation, civic education, advocacy, reconciliation initiatives, and community engagement programmes. The study also found that women parliamentarians, civil society organisations, women’s rights activists, and young women continue to advance peace, dialogue, and social cohesion in the post-2023 political environment. However, obstacles such as political intimidation, gender discrimination, cultural barriers, lack of funding, limited mentorship, and underrepresentation in decision-making structures continue to hinder their participation.. The study concludes that women remain critical actors in Zimbabwe’s peacebuilding efforts. It recommends strengthening policy implementation, increasing funding for women-led initiatives, expanding leadership development programmes, and enhancing women’s representation in decision-making and peacebuilding structures.