Inputs for the Report on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity and Peace and Security: Submission from UN Women to the UN Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity

Abstract

The ten Security Council resolutions on WPS make clear that gender equality is inextricably linked with peace and security. Although the Security Council resolutions do not directly address people with diverse SOGIESC, they emphasize, among other issues, protection for all from SGBV in conflict, and the importance of addressing gender inequality as a means to advance peace and security.

Evidence, including that detailed in section 2 of this submission, demonstrates the ways in which gender-based violence is used in conflict to target and silence those who break gender norms and stereotypes,
whether that is because they work as peacebuilders or human rights defenders, or simply because they seek to participate in public life as women, girls, or lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex or queer (LGBTIQ+) people.

Through UN Women’s work to implement the WPS agenda, the organization supports efforts to prevent and respond to human rights violations that have a disproportionate or targeted impact on people because of their gender – particularly, women, girls and people with diverse genders – using a survivor-centered approach. UN Women also supports the meaningful participation of women, girls and people with diverse SOGIESC in public life, including in decision-making on peace and security issues. UN Women’s work also takes into consideration that women and girls who identify as LGBTIQ+ experience multiple forms of discrimination based on their gender and their SOGIESC, and it supports efforts to address their rights, needs and priorities through in intersectional approach.