In recent decades, issues relating to women’s rights have gained a prominent place in the global
policy-making arena. Women’s rights in the context of peace and security issues, however, are
a relatively new phenomenon. The discussion below provides a brief overview of major policy
instruments, resolutions and commitments made by member states of the United Nations (UN)
and regional inter-governmental organisations on issues specifically relating to women and
decision-making in peace and security issues. It also highlights key steps taken by these
institutions and remaining gaps in implementation.