As we celebrate this year’s International Women’s Day, we take a moment to honour the remarkable contributions of three members of our GCSP community who have been instrumental in advancing gender equality, empowering women leaders, and championing women’s rights in the context of peace and security. Their dedication, resilience, and leadership have not only paved the way for more inclusive and equitable spaces but have also inspired countless others to break barriers and drive meaningful change. Today, we celebrate their impact and reaffirm our commitment to fostering a future where all women can thrive.

• Name: Joana Osei-Tutu
• Job Title: Ag. Deputy Director, Women, Youth Peace and Security Institute. Kofi Anana International Peacekeeping Centre.
• Nationality: Ghanaian

Can you share a brief overview of your journey and what inspired you to work in peace and security?

Growing up and living in diverse communities, I experienced both privilege and discrimination—two forces that shaped my understanding of justice, equity, and the deep-seated structures that sustain inequality. These experiences weren’t merely observations but personal encounters that fuelled my commitment to peace and security. I observed how marginalisation breeds instability and how exclusion silences many voices that should be central to rebuilding societies. This realisation drives my work: to challenge systemic barriers, amplify underrepresented voices, and create pathways for inclusive, sustainable peace. True security isn’t just the absence of conflict but the presence of justice, dignity, and opportunity for all. My journey has reinforced a simple yet powerful belief: When societies prioritise equity, they build resilience, and when they centre justice, they secure lasting peace.

How do you support and empower other women leaders, and what initiatives have you led or contributed to in advancing gender equality and women’s rights in this field?

I work to empower women leaders by driving initiatives that equip them—at every level, from grassroots movements to strategic decision-making spaces—to claim their voices, assert their agency, and lead with confidence. True gender equality demands more than representation; it requires systemic transformation. That’s why my work extends beyond supporting women alone—I actively involve male allies, shifting the burden from women fighting for inclusion to a united movement dismantling barriers. Through mentorship, policy advocacy, and community-driven interventions, I’ve contributed to initiatives that challenge deep-seated biases, strengthen women-led networks, and bridge the gap between activism and institutional change. I believe that when women and girls are equipped to lead, and when men stand as allies, entire communities transform. By fostering inclusive leadership, amplifying voices long silenced, and ensuring women shape policies and peacebuilding efforts, I am working towards a future where gender equality is not a goal but an undeniable reality.

What advice would you give to women aspiring to lead in peace and security, and what does International Women’s Day mean to you?

My advice for women aspiring to join the peace and security sector is this: your voice is essential, your leadership is influential, and your presence is transformative. This field requires resilience, but it also presents the chance to drive meaningful change. Equip yourself with knowledge, cultivate support networks, and never underestimate the strength of strategic alliances—including male allies who advocate for gender equality. Peace and security are not merely about policies and negotiations; they involve dismantling systemic barriers, amplifying marginalised voices, and ensuring that women are not just at the table but are actively shaping the agenda.

International Women’s Day is a powerful reminder that the struggle for gender equality is a collective effort. It’s a day to celebrate our progress and acknowledge that the work is far from finished. Genuine change requires ongoing advocacy, courageous leadership, and a steadfast commitment to justice—because equity shouldn’t just be an aspiration but a reality for everyone.

Read the story from the two other colleagues

• Fostering Growth and Inclusion of Women Through Cross-Institutional Mentorship
• From Lived Experience to Women’s Leadership and Impact