International Journal of Arts and Humanities

Global and Regional Normative Frameworks for Gender Equality, Women’s Empowerment and Women, Peace and Security in South Sudan

Executive summary

This policy paper examines the global and regional normative frameworks supporting gender equality, women’s empowerment, and women, peace and security commitments in South Sudan. It highlights key international and regional instruments, including CEDAW, the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 and related resolutions, the Maputo Protocol, and African Union frameworks. The paper analyzes South Sudan’s progress in domesticating these commitments through national policies, reporting mechanisms, and institutional frameworks. While significant progress has been made through ratification, reporting, and development of national action plans, gaps remain in implementation, financing, coordination, data availability, and enforcement. The paper recommends strengthening institutional capacity, improving accountability mechanisms, increasing financing for gender equality commitments, and ensuring alignment between international obligations and national development priorities.

Keywords: Women, Peace and Security (WPS), Gender Equality, International Normative Frameworks, Women’s Empowerment, South Sudan