Empowering Women as Agents of Peace in Conflict Resolution: A Literature Review in the Papua Conflict Region

Abstract

The conflict in Papua has been ongoing for several decades and has affected nearly every aspect of community life, including the political, economic, socio-cultural, and security spheres. In such situations, women are often viewed as victims rather than agents of change; however, the reality on the ground tells a different story. This study examines the role of women’s empowerment in conflict resolution management in Papua through a literature review approach. Using content analysis and thematic synthesis of academic literature, institutional reports, and relevant policy documents, this study finds that empowered women make tangible contributions to the effectiveness of conflict resolution through grassroots mediation, social reconciliation, and the strengthening of community social capital. At the same time, structural barriers—such as traditional patriarchal systems, limited access to education, and unstable security conditions—continue to consistently restrict the scope of action for Papuan women in the peace process. This study recommends that a gender perspective be systematically integrated into conflict resolution policies in Papua, as mandated by UN Security Council Resolution No. 1325 of 2000 on Women, Peace, and Security.