A gender-sensitive security sector reform (SSR) approach is necessary because any successful security strategy needs to address the vulnerabilities of all citizens. SSR interventions that use a gender-sensitive approach are more targeted and responsive to people’s need, and thus more effective and sustainable. Moreover, security institutions that listen and respond to the needs of all parts of a community will be perceived as more legitimate and accountable.
This brief outlines learning from how the “Time is Now” programme incorporated international principles and resolutions related to gender into design and implementation and improved inclusive representation and participation in local-level conflict resolution mechanisms to address specific risks and vulnerabilities. It highlights how the programme worked closely with existing local networks and organisations, such as Somalia Legal Aid Network and others to address sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) by improving assistance to survivors, referral networks and local institutional capacity.
