Masculinities, Conflict, and Peacebuilding: Presentation and Discussion of a New Handbook
On March 13, the Center for International Peace Operations (ZIF) hosted the virtual launch of the newly published handbook Masculinities, Conflict and Peacebuilding. Edited by Philipp Schulz, Henri Myrttinen, Chloé Lewis, and Heleen Touquet, the book provides in-depth analyses and practical insights into the significance of masculinities in peace and security.
Following the book presentation, participants engaged in an intensive exchange of experiences. Among them were ZIF’s civilian experts currently deployed in multilateral missions and operations across the Balkans, the South Caucasus, Central Asia, and Africa, as well as representatives of international organizations. The discussion focused on how concepts of masculinity and traditional gender roles can be more effectively integrated into peace and security efforts to prevent violence and promote sustainable peace.
Philipp Schulz, one of the editors, highlighted:
"As editors, we have gained immensely from this discussion on the role of masculinities in global politics, conflicts, and peacebuilding—particularly with such an engaged, insightful, and experienced group of experts and practitioners. It is clear that we must expand our approaches to gender in peace and security, and recognizing the diverse and complex roles of masculinities is crucial to our shared efforts in ending violence, preventing conflicts, and building lasting peace."
The discussion underscored two key points:
- Masculinities are not a peripheral issue in the context of conflict and peace; they are deeply embedded in the structures of violence, power, and societal transformation.
- For gender-responsive approaches to effectively foster sustainable peace, they must acknowledge and address masculinities as an integral part of the gendered dynamics of conflict and peace.
By bridging theoretical insights with practical experiences, Masculinities, Conflict and Peacebuilding makes a valuable contribution to the field, offering actionable recommendations for peacebuilding professionals.