In their efforts to make the peace processes more inclusive and gender responsive, UN Envoys and mediation support teams seek support from gender advisers within the UN Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA) and, in the context of peacekeeping operations, the Department of Peace Operations. Additional support is available through the Standby Team of Senior Mediation Advisers (SBT).

1. The Gender, Peace and Security Unit

The Gender, Peace and Security Unit, located in the Policy and Mediation Division of DPPA, provides support and technical backstopping on an ongoing basis to DPPA-led mediation efforts, and staff at Headquarters and in field missions.

2. Gender Advisers and Gender Focal Points

Gender Advisers are deployed in most of DPPA’s special political missions, while all missions have dedicated gender focal points and some also dedicated gender focal points within mission components. The gender experts work closely with the mission leadership and staff to provide technical expertise and to mainstream gender in all mission activities, including efforts to promote inclusive conflict prevention and mediation.

3. Standby Team of Senior Mediation Advisers

To support global mediation efforts, the DPPA’s Standby Team of Senior Mediation Advisers has a full-time expert on gender and inclusion. Gender and inclusion expertise is also a recruitment criteria for all Standby Team members. This aims to ensure that all SBT support is gender sensitive.

Standby Team 2020

4. Secretary General’s High-Level Advisory Board on Mediation

The Secretary-General’s High-Level Advisory Board on Mediation was established by the Secretary-General on 13 September 2017, as part of his vision for a surge in diplomacy for peace.  The Board is composed of 9 women and 9 men, current and former global leaders, senior officials and renowned experts who bring together an unparalleled range of experience, skills, knowledge and contacts.