Still a long way to go: A review of the implementation of UNSCR 1325 by United Nations peacekeepers in Mali

This study assesses the implementation by MINUSMA of United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 on women, peace, and security. Although several preconditions for a successful implementation exist, there is still a long way to go to ensure the full implementation of the resolution. MINUSMA needs to improve the gender balance among its military staff, increase troop awareness of UNSCR 1325 in the Malian context, and include the provisions of protection and participation of women in the planning and conduct of military operations. MINUSMA also suffers the risk of becoming a mission where the counterterrorism effort is taking precedence over all other provisions - e.g. protection of women and girls - in the mandate. This is exacerbated by the limited number of troops, lack of enabling resources, and untrained personnel deployed by some nations, as well as the military component's need to prioritise transport, escorts, and logistics. In order for MINUSMA to fulfil the provisions of UNSCR 1325, there is a need to strengthen the basic military capability of the mission and ensure that the resolution maintains its central position - together with protection of civilians - in MINUSMA's mandate.