UN Resolution 1325 on the Women, Peace & Security Agenda: A National Action Plan as Roadmap of Turkey

UN Security Council Resolution 1325 of 2000 underscores the vital role of women in conflict prevention, resolution and peacebuilding. This resolution, together with its nine complementaries, establishes a robust normative framework to promote gender-sensitive approaches in conflict zones. The UNSCR 1325 has led to significant changes in both national and international policies, strengthening the legal basis for the protection and empowerment of women in conflict-affected areas. The Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda is built on four pillars: participation, protection, prevention and assistance, and recovery. These pillars address different aspects of women's experiences in conflict zones, recognize their unique challenges and elevate their status as indispensable actors in the quest for lasting peace. As of October 2022, 104 countries have adopted National Action Plans (NAPs) for the implementation within the WPS agenda. Despite calls from local and international platforms, Turkey remains an exception with no National Action Plan and no participation in any Regional Action Plan (RAPs). This study provides guidance for the preparation of Turkey's NAP in line with UN Security Council Resolution 1325 and the WPS Agenda. It examines the imperative for Turkey to adopt Resolution 1325 given its unique context and how adherence to international standards can strengthen Turkey's global position. The research adopts a thematic approach with the descriptive methodology, focusing on four critical areas in line with key elements of the WPS agenda: diplomatic institutions, military and international peace operations, refugee and asylum policies, and international humanitarian assistance. By focusing on these areas, the study aims to identify specific strategies to promote women's participation, protection, assistance and relief & recovery in Turkey. Secondly, content analysis will be used, inspired by previous studies examining NAPs in various countries. The countries selected for the analysis include Afghanistan, Canada, Czechia, Lebanon, and South Africa. Their experiences provide insights into best practices, challenges and areas for improvement that can inform Turkey's NAP. In a nutshell, this study aims to fill the gap in understanding and implementing Turkey's WPS agenda. Drawing on international experiences, it offers policymakers valuable insights and recommendations for the formulation of Turkey's National Action Plan.