Intersectionality dives deep into the dynamics of discrimination and social justice and encourages us to consider how multiple aspects of identity (such as gender, race, class, age, sexuality, ability, and belief) intersect and shape societal structures as well as people’s experiences in everyday life. As such, intersectionality allows us to expand our understanding of collective identities and political action. Moreover, in societies affected by armed conflict, intersectionality can help us to understand not only the forms of violence people experience, but also the different needs, interests, and views towards what constitutes sustainable peace. Analyzing how multiple aspects of identity intersect and define people’s experience and agency in conflict, leads to a better understanding of conflict dynamics and power relations between actors and groups – thereby enabling more inclusive and sustainable peacebuilding strategies.

Through lectures, simulations, roleplays, group exercises, case studies, and individual reflection participants will:

• Get familiar with state-of-the-art academic and practical concepts around intersectionality, gender, and peacebuilding.
• Gain an understanding for the relevance of intersectionality and gender analysis as well as the complex intersections of identity and power in peacebuilding.
• Develop the skills to recognize intersectionality and power dynamics in peacebuilding and training settings and learn how to develop alternative, innovative, and creative gender and intersectional practices, based on critical and gender race theories.
• Get equipped with tools to apply principles and methods of intersectionality in peacebuilding and training to foster inclusive environments and peace strategies.
• Learn how to translate theories and approaches around intersectional gender work into their own work context.