Building gender-responsive project design in Jordan

As part of the Elsie Programme, DCAF trained 25 members of the Public Security Directorate’s gender unit and focal points in Amman. The sessions strengthened skills in designing gender-responsive Theories of Change, applying gender analysis, and developing project proposals. An open-access e-learning course in Arabic on integrating gender in project design will soon be available to support police and security professionals across the region.
 

Protecting the rights of armed forces personnel

At the 14th Seminar for Legal Advisors of the Armed Forces in Galway, hosted by the International Society for Military Law and the Law of War, DCAF shared insights on the economic and social rights of conscripts and armed forces personnel. Findings from our comparative research highlighted legal and practical gaps in access to basic needs, trust in complaints mechanisms, and awareness of protection. The discussion underscored the importance of monitoring, training, and inclusive reporting to safeguard the rights of those serving in the armed forces.

Supporting inclusive reintegration of veterans in Ukraine

In partnership with the NGO Horizon of Changes, DCAF held a workshop on advocacy for civil society organizations working with women and LGBTQI+ veterans. Participants explored how to better represent their communities through effective advocacy campaigns, with insights from experts including Lyubov Galan, Head of the human rights center “Principle”, and Inna Sovsun, Member of Parliament. This initiative, part of the project “Building diverse and inclusive reintegration policies and practices for veterans in Ukraine,” strengthens the capacity of CSOs to promote inclusive policies and support lasting reintegration.

Strengthening security governance in Moldova

In Chisinau, DCAF convened a series of events under its “Strengthening security sector governance in Moldova” project. Highlights included a conference on judicial control of special investigative measures with over 70 participants from Moldova and abroad, workshops supporting the institutional development of the platform for security and defence initiatives and the Women Police Association, and a civil society discussion on the draft law on national security. These initiatives reinforce transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance in Moldova’s security sector.

Advancing gender equality reform in North Macedonia

DCAF’s Deputy Director Béatrice Godefroy visited North Macedonia and delivered a keynote at the ceremony launching the Gender Self-Assessment Report and Gender Action Plan, commending national efforts to advance the Women, Peace and Security agenda.

She also met with the President of North Macedonia, the Ministry of Defence, Parliament representatives, the Academy of Judges and Public Prosecutors, as well as civil society and the media. These exchanges reinforced joint efforts to promote inclusive governance and security sector reform.