Our Approach

Including women in peace and security efforts is not just a moral imperative—it is smart and strategic. Our research underscores how women’s engagement contributes to positive outcomes around the world. We document the unique impacts of conflict and crisis on women and girls, and build the evidence-based case for women’s meaningful inclusion in peace and security efforts. We also explore how efforts to improve the status of women are strengthened by engaging with male allies. Learn more about our research.

As a trusted advisor to national, international, and private actors, we provide decision makers with guidance to advance more effective and inclusive policy and practice. Through direct engagement, roundtable conversations, and media campaigns, we deliver key policy recommendations to decisionmakers. We are also spearheading the Global Women Leaders Network, bringing together former and current heads of state, ministers, and high-level government and private sector representatives to nurture women’s political leadership, advance gender equality, and address the world’s most pressing challenges.

We have developed trusted relationships with networks of women peacebuilders and civil society leaders in crisis zones with a focus on Afghanistan, Iran, Myanmar, Ukraine, and Sudan. Through our Rapid Response Networks, we amplify timely calls to action, elevate best practices, and draw on local knowledge and experience to inform research and policy. Learn more about our networks.

We regularly welcome foreign officials, global thought leaders, and frontline defenders to Georgetown’s campus for discussions on women’s roles in peace and security. Hosting signature events at the United Nations, Human Rights Council, and the UNFCCC Climate Conference of the Parties enables us to shape global policy and serve as a thought leader on the international stage. Through our annual Hillary Rodham Clinton Awards, we spotlight courageous women peacebuilders operating in some of the most challenging environments. Our Bridging Theory and Practice workshops bring together leading researchers, policymakers, and practitioners from around the world to narrow the gap between academic research and policymaking. Learn more about our convenings.

We equip the next generation of foreign policy professionals with the tools to advance attention to gender issues and diversity in international peace and security.  Our certificate program for Georgetown University students provides dozens of young professionals with the practical and analytical skills to take a more inclusive approach to international affairs. We award research fellowships to recent graduates who conduct analysis that helps close key knowledge and evidence gaps. We also engage students across the university through popular on-campus events, by offering positions as research assistants and volunteers, and by advising and mentoring students interested in research and careers in the field. Learn more about our student engagement.