The gender aspect of violent extremism has been largely understood through awareness about how women and girls uniquely suffer from its impact. What is less understood is the important role that women can, and should, play in preventing and countering violent extremism (P/CVE). Viewing women’s strengths solely through their traditional roles as wives and mothers is to significantly undervalue their contribution. UNSCR 2242 (2015) has urged states “to ensure the leadership of women in developing strategies to prevent and counter violent extremism”, yet women’s participation remains elusive.
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