HRCSL Launches Three-Part Initiative to Advance Women, Peace and Security
Sia Lucy Kannah The Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL) has hosted the first of three capacity-building sessions for representatives of civil society organisations (CSOs) on advancing Women, Peace and Security (WPS) through the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) in Sierra Leone and The Gambia.
Facilitated by UPR Info, the initiative aims to strengthen the role of civil society in monitoring and supporting the implementation of UPR recommendations related to Women, Peace and Security.
During the session, participants discussed practical ways to translate UPR recommendations into national action, strengthen advocacy and accountability, and promote experience-sharing among civil society actors in Sierra Leone and The Gambia.
Speaking on behalf of the Commission, Executive Secretary Joseph Kamara highlighted the critical role CSOs play in ensuring that international commitments translate into tangible improvements in the lives of women and girls across Sierra Leone.
He acknowledged progress made under Sierra Leone’s third-generation National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security, alongside reforms aimed at increasing women’s participation in governance and public life.
Kamara described the capacity-building series as a timely opportunity to deepen stakeholders’ understanding of the UPR mechanism and its potential to advance Women, Peace and Security priorities.
The sessions are expected to strengthen collaboration among stakeholders working to promote human rights, gender equality, women’s participation and inclusive peacebuilding.
The remaining sessions are scheduled for November 12 and 19, 2026.