India recently hosted the Conference on Women Peacekeepers from the Global South at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi on February 24-25, 2025. This significant event brought together women peacekeepers from 35 nations, with the primary focus on enhancing participation and redefining the roles of women in UN peacekeeping missions. The conference was organized collaboratively by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
A highlight of the first day was a meeting with Hon’ble President Smt. Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan, followed by a keynote address delivered by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar.
The involvement of three women officers from the Assam Rifles enriched the discussions, as they shared their personal experiences regarding the challenges and opportunities faced by women in peacekeeping.
The conference featured extensive dialogues on the integration of technology into modern peacekeeping operations. Key topics included:
– The application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for proactive conflict prediction and management
– The significance of telemedicine in supporting remote operations and addressing medical emergencies
– A demonstration of ‘Unite Aware,’ a technological platform aimed at enhancing the safety and security of UN peacekeepers
Through these discussions, the conference emphasized the critical nature of innovation, comprehensive training, and enhanced collaboration in empowering women to take on peacekeeping roles.
It also served as a valuable platform for sharing experiences and underscoring the essential contributions of women in conflict resolution, humanitarian assistance, and security operations.
By hosting this international gathering, India has reinforced its dedication to bolstering global peacekeeping initiatives and promoting greater gender inclusivity.
The event aimed to equip women peacekeepers with the necessary skills and technological tools to navigate and operate effectively in complex conflict zones, thereby enhancing their contribution to peacekeeping efforts worldwide.
