TWENTY YEARS OF UNSCR 1325 IN UGANDA: PERCEPTIONS, KNOWLEDGE AND IMPLEMENTATION

This Baseline Survey examines the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security (WPS) in Uganda, twenty years after its adoption. Commissioned by UN Women in partnership with Makerere University and funded by the Royal Norwegian Embassy, the study provides evidence to inform Uganda’s Women, Peace and Security agenda.

The survey covered 25 districts and applied a mixed-methods approach, including household surveys, key informant interviews and focus group discussions. It assessed awareness, perceptions and implementation of the four WPS pillars: participation, prevention, protection, and relief and recovery.

Findings show uneven awareness and application of UNSCR 1325, with higher knowledge levels in conflict-affected areas. While women play an active role in peacebuilding, especially at community level, their participation remains largely informal and constrained by patriarchal norms, limited resources, and weak accountability mechanisms. Often, WPS interventions are implemented without explicit reference to the Resolution.

The report underscores the role of civil society and partners and recommends strengthening awareness and localisation of the National Action Plan, investing in women’s leadership, addressing harmful gender norms, and improving coordination and accountability to advance women’s meaningful participation in peace and security processes in Uganda.