We understand the complexity and the interrelatedness of both old and new security threats people are currently facing and the impact of such threats on society as root causes of violence. We therefore place people at the core of our effort to ensure the peace and security of our communities and states. Human Security re-conceptualizes security in a fundamental way. It shifts from traditional, state-centric conceptions of security that focus primarily on the safety of states from military aggression, to one that concentrates on the security of the individuals, their protection and empowerment. Human security enhances human freedoms and human fulfillment as fundamental to the achievement of sustainable community and state peace and security.
WOMEN PEACE AND SECURITY (WPS)
Historically, Women have been completely underrepresented in peace processes and negotiations though they suffer catastrophic consequences in times of conflicts, terrorism and violent extremism. Surprisingly, there is evidence to suggest that women’s participation in peace processes contributes to longer, more resilient peace after conflict. FOSDA’s WPS Project is carefully designed to contribute to West Africa’s effort towards building a more resilient society by supporting women’s full and equal representation and participation in all levels of peace processes and security efforts. We strive to ensure equitable opportunities as well as safe spaces for women to secure their rights, freedoms, and livelihoods. Guided by the UN Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325, the Ghana National Action Plan (GHANAP) 2, and the African Union (AU) continental results framework. We adopt a 3 pronged approach solutions focusing on;
Annual Independent Assessment of the Ghana National Action Plan (GHANAP 2) - FOSDA undertakes evaluative assessment and monitoring of the implementation of the second Ghana National Action Plan on UNSCR 1325. The goal is to keep stakeholders on their toes and nudge them towards right strategies for an effective implementation which will contribute to bringing women around the decision-making table, especially in the security sector of Ghana as envisioned by the UNSCR 1325. Providing a platform for Constructive Dialogue and Knowledge Acquisition
Through the Talk WPS Quarterly webinar series, we educate, sensitize and inform participants through riveting and inspiring conversations from speakers on issues of Women in various aspects of Peace and Security.
In 2021 FOSDA’s ‘Women in Mediation’ training which supported 35 beneficiaries with technical skills on mediation and conflict resolution for peacebuilding has been sustained through this platform. The platform is supporting women's empowerment programs to encourage meaningful participation in decision-making spaces, particularly for policy influence.
FOSDA works in collaboration with other organizations towards gender equality intervention. Also, providing technical support for other Civil Society Organisations in topics such as Gender and Climate, ‘Violence Against Women in Elections’ and ‘Women and Young girls roles in Countering terrorism and violent extremism’
FOSDA recognizes women as resilient actors with the potential to contribute to a better society for all. The goal is to advance Gender Equality and Inclusion within Africa through our programming and staff development. FOSDA intends to strengthen knowledge in and expertise for mainstreaming gender considerations in policy-making, programme planning and implementation as well as in African leadership.