This policy framework outlines UN Women’s gender-responsive and human rights-based approach to engagement in counter-terrorism (CT) and prevention of violent extremism (PVE). Grounded in international human rights law, the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda, and UNSCR 1325 and 2242, the framework articulates principles for ensuring that CT/PVE interventions promote women’s rights and avoid reinforcing structural inequalities.
The framework identifies risks associated with securitised approaches, including shrinking civic space and harm to women human rights defenders, and emphasises conflict sensitivity, inclusion, and accountability. It outlines UN Women’s added value through capacity-building, institutional gender mainstreaming, and support for women’s participation in security decision-making platforms.
The framework concludes by providing risk-aware decision-making principles to ensure CT/PVE programming strengthens gender equality and human rights rather than undermining them.