MONGOLIAN PEACEKEEPERS TO SERVE AS AGENTS FOR GENDER EQUALITY

MONGOLIAN PEACEKEEPERS TO SERVE AS AGENTS FOR GENDER EQUALITY

The European Union and General Staff of the Mongolian Armed Forces join hands in promoting gender equality in peacekeeping operations.

The European Union (EU) and the General Staff of the Mongolian Armed Forces (GSMAF) launched the "Mongolian Peacekeepers as Agents for Gender Equality" project. Supported by the Service for Foreign Policy Instruments (FPI) of the European Commission, 20 Mongolian peacekeepers will participate in a specialized gender mainstreaming training in Slovenia. This training is designed to equip Mongolian peacekeepers with practical expertise in integrating gender sensitivity into peacekeeping operations and empower them as advocates for gender equality and human rights both within Mongolia and in the United Nations peacekeeping missions.

Mongolian government is committed to integrate gender equality strategies across all ministries and sectors. The EU has been a consistent supporter of these strategies and has closely worked together with the Government of Mongolia.

A key achievement has been the Mongolian Armed Forces' commitment to implementing sectoral gender equality policies since 2020, resulting in significant progress. The EU commends the General Staff of the Mongolian Armed Forces (GSMAF) for operationalizing gender policy through the newly established Sub-Council on Gender and for introducing the "Gender Officer" role within the leadership structure of peacekeeping missions. Additionally, over 150 military personnel have been trained in gender responsiveness and sensitivity, marking a substantial step forward.

Following the initiative of the President of Mongolia and the Political Dialogue, Mongolia and the EU agreed to implement a joint initiative on gender and peacekeeping in 2024. This project enhances EU-Mongolia cooperation in peace and security, international law, while promoting gender equality in both society and the armed forces. This flagship project also marks the celebration of the 35^th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and the EU.

During the launch event, Ms Ina Marčiulionytė, Ambassador of the European Union to Mongolia highlighted "20 Mongolian peacekeepers will participate in a Gender Mainstreaming Training in Slovenia. This training will ensure that they embody the highest standards of gender equality, projecting these principles not only in United Nations Peacekeeping Missions but also in Mongolian society and its security and defence systems."

General Staff of the Mongolian Armed Forces:

"Gender equality is not limited to one sector but is essential for the sustainable development and prosperity of society. We believe that this gender training will not only enhance the understanding of gender issues among military personnel, but also provide a vital platform for experts to collaborate and exchange new approaches and experiences in the field."