GENDER MAINSTREAMING AND THE EFFECTIVENESS OF PEACE AGREEMENTS: EVIDENCE FROM SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA

Abstract

This study examines the extent to which gender mainstreaming in peace agreementsinfluences their durability in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The analysis is grounded in Feminist PeaceTheory and draws on empirical data derived from the PA-X Peace Agreements Database, UnitedNations Women reports, National Action Plans (NAPs), and key informant interviews. A datasetcomprising peace agreements across SSA (2000–2025) was constructed using systematic documentcoding and triangulated with institutional indicators, including state capacity, conflict intensity, andthird-party involvement. Descriptive, correlational, and multivariate regression analyses reveal thathigher levels of gender mainstreaming operationalized through the Gender Mainstreaming Index(GMI) are significantly associated with increased peace agreement durability. State capacity andcredible third-party guarantees also exert strong positive effects, while conflict intensitydemonstrates a negative relationship with sustainability. The findings provide robust empiricalsupport for the argument that inclusive peace processes enhance legitimacy, implementation quality,and long-term stability. The study contributes to the growing body of literature linking genderinclusion to peace outcomes by offering region-specific quantitative evidence and identifying keymediating and moderating factors. It further provides actionable policy insights for governments,regional organizations, and international actors seeking to operationalize UNSCR 1325 andstrengthen sustainable peace-building in SSA.