Women, Peace, and Security: Empowering Kashmiri Women in the Pursuit of Peace

Author: Mrs. Naila Altaf Kayani (Fellows; 2023-2024 batch; from Jammu & Kashmir (Pakistan Administered))

Mrs. Kayani is a PhD scholar in International Relations at National University Of Modern Languages (NUML) in Islamabad, as well as a political and social analyst based in Muzaffarabad, Pakistan. 

Women, peace, and security encompass the critical role women play in achieving sustainable international peace and security. This concept promotes a gendered perspective and emphasizes women's equal and meaningful participation in peace processes, peacebuilding, and security initiatives. The foundation of the Women, Peace, and Security agenda lies in the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325, unanimously adopted on October 31, 2000.

UNSCR 1325 not only recognizes the disproportionate impacts of war on women but also underscores the pivotal role women should and do play in conflict prevention, conflict management, and sustainable peace efforts. The framework of UNSCR 1325 revolves around four pillars: participation, protection, prevention, and relief and recovery.

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Context of Kashmir: The region of Kashmir has long been embroiled in a protracted conflict, with women bearing the brunt of its consequences. Against the backdrop of insurgency, militarization, and geopolitical tensions, Kashmiri women have faced multifaceted challenges, including violence, displacement, and marginalization. Despite these adversities, Kashmiri women have demonstrated resilience, agency, and a steadfast commitment to peacebuilding efforts. This essay will explore the pivotal role of Kashmiri women in promoting peace, addressing their unique experiences and contributions, and advocating for their meaningful participation in peace processes. Through an examination of historical contexts, contemporary challenges, and feminist perspectives, this essay aims to underscore the imperative of centering the voices and experiences of Kashmiri women in the pursuit of sustainable peace and security.

Historical Context: Kashmir's tumultuous history, marked by ethnic diversity and geopolitical rivalries, lays the foundation for the region's protracted conflict. The partition of British India in 1947 left Kashmir a contested territory, with its ruler, Maharaja Hari Singh, opting to accede to India amidst an invasion by tribal militias from Pakistan. Subsequent wars and political disputes between India and Pakistan further exacerbated tensions, leading to the militarization of the region and the emergence of separatist movements. The unresolved status of Kashmir has since been a flashpoint for violence and instability, impacting the lives of its inhabitants, particularly women.

Women's Experiences in Conflict: The living conditions of women in Kashmir are profoundly shaped by insurgency, militancy, and the consequent militarization of the region, compounded by various socio- economic, historical, religious, and geopolitical factors. Enhanced security measures and the presence of armed personnel and militants significantly affect the daily lives, safety, security, and mobility of Kashmiri women.

Over the past 75 years, the political and geopolitical landscape of Kashmir has undergone intricate and contentious shifts. Since 1989, Kashmiri people have endured injuries, torture, humiliation, and fatalities, primarily stemming from separatist insurgencies and India's military responses. This dynamic conflict has profoundly impacted millions across political, social, economic, and cultural spheres. The cycle of violence in Jammu and Kashmir has resulted in numerous casualties and injuries, rendering many unable to work.

Women, in particular, have suffered grievous losses, with many losing their primary providers and facing familial separation across the Line of Control.

Kashmiri women have been disproportionately targeted by armed forces, facing a myriad of hardships ranging from rape to the disappearance of male family members, from the plight of half-widows to defending family honor, and from property disenfranchisement to domestic violence. Extensive reports by various organizations, including Amnesty International, Asia Watch, Physicians for Human Rights, Human Rights Watch, and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, document egregious human rights violations such as disappearances, rape, family fragmentation, displacement, and victimization of Kashmiri women. Beyond the physical crimes, the conflict's aftermath, including living in conflict zones, has inflicted significant mental suffering. Social and economic insecurity among Kashmiri women persists, leading to enduring social and psychological distress.

Kashmiri women have defied traditional gender roles by stepping out of their homes and communities to express solidarity with their men amidst the conflict. They have actively sought the whereabouts of their loved ones, visiting jails, security camps, army facilities, and courts. Rather than being passive victims, Kashmiri women have assumed significant political roles, albeit often overlooked. Women are struggling against patriarchy, showcasing their resilience, independence, and political strength.

Kashmiri women’s interests lie in achieving a peaceful resolution to the conflict, underscoring their pivotal role in the peace process. Gender-sensitive approaches that integrate women into peace politics can enhance the comprehensiveness and sustainability of peace efforts. However, these wpmen are frequently marginalized and excluded from discussions and peace-building initiatives, despite their indispensable contributions, echoing the principles of UN Security Council Resolution 1325.

Militarization in Kashmir disproportionately affects women, manifesting in personal traumas stemming from the loss or disappearance of loved ones, compounded by economic hardships due to lack of state protection. Women's education and health also suffer, given their dominance in professions such as teaching and nursing. The political dimensions of militarization exacerbate these adverse effects on women.

Recent government data of India reveals a concerning trend of increasing reports of missing women and girls in the region, with nearly 9,765 cases reported between 2019 and 2021, a three-fold rise from previous years. Additionally, Amnesty International (1999) reports over 8,000 cases of enforced disappearances of Kashmiri men since the onset of the struggle for independence in 1989. Many women, known as "half widows," are left to provide for their families amid uncertainty over the fate of their husbands. This socio-economic insecurity, coupled with the psychological and emotional toll of living in perpetual uncertainty, underscores the profound challenges faced by Kashmiri women in the conflict- affected region.

Kashmiri women have endured profound hardships amidst the conflict, facing violence, displacement, and social marginalization. From the mass sexual assault in Kunan Poshpora to the plight of "half-widows" awaiting news of their disappeared husbands, women have been subjected to egregious human rights violations. The militarization of Kashmir has entrenched gendered power dynamics, exacerbating women's vulnerabilities and restricting their mobility and agency. Moreover, patriarchal norms and societal stigma compound the challenges faced by women, perpetuating their marginalization within Kashmiri society.

Plight of half-widows: Some women found themselves grappling with the uncertainty of their spouse's fate, contemplating the possibility that their loved ones might have been consigned to anonymous mass graves, as no specific grave could be identified. This dilemma stemmed from the forced disappearance of Kashmiri men during the 1990s, orchestrated by the state to undermine the freedom movement. These men were never officially declared deceased, leaving their wives in a state of limbo, commonly referred to as "half-widows."

The ambiguous status of half-widows led to numerous practical challenges, particularly concerning financial matters such as bank transactions, property rights, and inheritance, all of which typically necessitated death certificates. Compounding these issues were the deeply entrenched patriarchal norms in Kashmiri society, which viewed half-widows with suspicion and subjected them to social stigmatization. Women in this position were often discouraged from remarriage and unjustly labeled as adulterous, while pressure from their deceased husbands' families often pushed them towards marrying within the same familial circle.

The question of when a half-widow could consider remarriage was a topic of debate among religious authorities. Islamic law permits remarriage for such women, but interpretations varied among different sects. Clerics disagreed on the appropriate waiting period before remarriage could be considered morally acceptable. Eventually, in 2014, a consensus emerged allowing remarriage after a waiting period of four years, as decreed by clerics. However, despite this ruling, societal attitudes continued to view such remarriage as morally questionable.

Women's Agency and Resistance: Despite facing formidable obstacles, Kashmiri women have demonstrated remarkable resilience and agency in their pursuit of peace and justice. Women have been active participants in political movements, grassroots activism, and peacebuilding initiatives, challenging traditional gender roles and advocating for their rights. Whether protesting against human rights abuses or mobilizing for gender equality, Kashmiri women have played instrumental roles in amplifying their voices and effecting positive change within their communities.

The economic plight of Kashmiri women: the economic Plight of these women is deeply intertwined with the enduring conflict in the region, which has inflicted significant losses across various sectors of the economy. The conflict has cast a long shadow over every facet of economic activity in Kashmir, including the once-thriving industries of handicrafts, horticulture, medium- and small-sized enterprises, and tourism. The persistent instability and insecurity have deterred investment, disrupted supply chains, and stifled economic growth, leaving Kashmiri women particularly vulnerable to economic hardships.

The economic challenges faced by Kashmiri women are multifaceted, stemming from a complex interplay of sociological, political, and economic factors. Gender prejudices entrenched within Kashmiri society further compound these challenges, limiting women's access to economic opportunities and perpetuating inequalities. Despite their resilience and potential, Kashmiri women confront systemic barriers that impede their economic agency and empowerment.

One significant barrier to economic empowerment is the limited access to education and skill development opportunities for women in Kashmir. Education plays a pivotal role in expanding career options and facilitating participation in diverse economic activities. However, restricted access to quality education perpetuates the cycle of poverty and marginalization among Kashmiri women, hindering their ability to break free from socio-economic constraints.

Moreover, the conflict-induced loss of property and means of subsistence has exacerbated the economic vulnerabilities of Kashmiri women, particularly those heading households. Internal displacement, a consequence of the conflict, has uprooted families and disrupted livelihoods, leaving women and their families grappling with uncertainty and economic instability.

Addressing the economic plight of Kashmiri women requires concerted efforts to dismantle gender biases, expand access to education and skill development programs, and create enabling environments for women's economic participation. By empowering Kashmiri women economically, society can harness their full potential as agents of change and drivers of economic progress, laying the foundation for a more inclusive and resilient Kashmiri society.

Empowerment and Resilience: Efforts to empower Kashmiri women must encompass a multifaceted approach, addressing socio-economic disparities, educational barriers, and gender-based violence. Economic opportunities and access to education are essential components of women's empowerment, enabling them to assert their rights and pursue meaningful participation in public life. Furthermore, initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality and challenging patriarchal norms are crucial for fostering a culture of inclusivity and resilience.

Women in Politics: Kashmiri women have long been active participants in the political landscape of the region, notwithstanding the patriarchal norms and complex socio-political environment that prevail. Throughout history, women in Kashmir have been integral to various political movements, from resisting the Dogra Regime to confronting the tribal invasion of 1947. Notably, organizations like the Women Self Defense Corps (WSDC) and Sheikh Abdullah’s women’s branch of the National Militia have showcased women's involvement in the struggle for political rights and self-determination.

Despite societal expectations dictating their roles as caregivers and homemakers, Kashmiri women have defied conventions to support and encourage their male family members in political endeavors. Their resilience and activism have been instrumental in shaping the political climate of Kashmir, with prominent female leaders emerging to champion the cause of freedom and justice.

Among these leaders, Mehbooba Mufti stands out as a notable figure, having served as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. Other prominent figures include Asiya Andrabi, the founding leader of Dukhtaran- e-Millat (Daughters of Faith), and Anjum Zamurad Habib, chairperson of MKM (Muslim Khawateen Markaz), who endured years of imprisonment for their activism. Despite their sacrifices and contributions to the pro-freedom struggle, Kashmiri women's roles remain largely unrecognized, with a notable absence of women's quotas or representation in decision-making bodies within pro-freedom political parties.

The limited representation of women in mainstream politics is further underscored by the dominance of political families and the absence of grassroots leaders. While some women have entered mainstream politics after engaging in social and human rights activism, their influence remains constrained by cultural expectations, security concerns, and the broader political environment.

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However, Kashmiri women's remarkable political participation amidst adversity highlights the importance of their inclusion in political discourse. Their perspectives and concerns must be acknowledged and addressed to ensure a more inclusive and representative political landscape in Kashmir. Despite the challenges, women's involvement in politics remains crucial for fostering diverse viewpoints and advocating for the particular interests of Kashmiri women.

Inclusion in Peacebuilding Efforts: The meaningful inclusion of Kashmiri women in peacebuilding processes is indispensable for the achievement of sustainable peace and security in the region. Women bring unique perspectives, experiences, and skills to peace negotiations, enriching discourse and broadening the scope of conflict resolution efforts. Gender-sensitive approaches to peacebuilding recognize the intersecting dynamics of conflict and gender, ensuring that women's voices are heard and their concerns addressed. By actively engaging women in decision-making processes and leadership roles, peacebuilding initiatives can promote greater inclusivity and effectiveness.

In the aftermath of the revocation of Kashmir's autonomy in August 2019, the resistance of Kashmiri women has been overlooked, with gender equality receiving insufficient attention. It is imperative to amplify the voices of Kashmiri women and prioritize their participation in political processes to achieve a more equitable and inclusive future for the region.

Challenges and Recommendations: Despite the pivotal role of Kashmiri women in peacebuilding, numerous challenges persist, including cultural barriers, security concerns, and institutionalized discrimination. Efforts to advance the Women, Peace, and Security agenda require collaboration among various stakeholders, including security actors, policymakers, civil society organizations, academics, practitioners, and international institutions. By increasing understanding of gender dynamics and building capacity to create effective solutions for peace, security, and equality, progress can be made towards realizing the goals of UNSCR 1325.

Government and civil society engagement on Women, Peace, and Security is critical for promoting women's participation in peacebuilding and addressing multi-sectoral security challenges. In Kashmir, where women have been active participants in political movements and grassroots activism, their inclusion in peace processes is essential for achieving lasting peace.

Advancing women's participation in peacebuilding requires comprehensive strategies that address the intersecting challenges faced by Kashmiri women, including violence, economic insecurity, and social marginalization. By connecting research to policy and practice on conflict-related sexual and gender-based violence, meaningful progress can be made towards promoting women's rights and enhancing their role in peacebuilding efforts.

In addition to promoting women's participation in formal peace processes, efforts should also focus on supporting grassroots initiatives and empowering local women leaders. Women-led organizations, such as Zanaan Wanaan, play a crucial role in producing independent studies, supporting artistic endeavors, and fortifying the women's movement in Kashmir. By amplifying the voices of Kashmiri women and promoting their agency, these initiatives contribute to building a more inclusive and sustainable peace.

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Conclusion: In conclusion, the empowerment of Kashmiri women is integral to the pursuit of peace, justice, and human security in the region. Women's experiences, perspectives, and agency must be central to peacebuilding efforts, ensuring that their voices are heard, their rights protected, and their contributions acknowledged. Empowering Kashmiri women is essential for achieving sustainable peace and security in the region. By embracing the principles of the Women, Peace, and Security agenda, including the pillars of participation, protection, prevention, and relief and recovery, stakeholders can work together to address the root causes of conflict, promote gender equality, and ensure women's meaningful participation in peacebuilding processes. Through collaboration and concerted efforts, the voices and experiences of Kashmiri women can be centered in efforts to build a more peaceful and inclusive society.