The Empowering Women in Conflict 1325 Fellowship is a transformative program designed to bolster the role of women in peace and security, based on the principles of UN Security Council Resolution 1325. Hosted by Beyond Borders Scotland in partnership with Edinburgh Law School and funded by the Scottish Government, the fellowship provides women from conflict-affected regions with advanced training, networking, and support to become more effective leaders and peacebuilders.
Foundational principles: UN Resolution 1325
Adopted unanimously in 2000, UNSCR 1325 was a landmark resolution that, for the first time, formally acknowledged the vital role of women in preventing and resolving conflicts and building sustainable peace. The resolution addresses the disproportionate impact of armed conflict on women and girls and calls for their equal participation in all stages of peace processes, from conflict prevention to post-conflict reconstruction. The 1325 Fellowship is built on these foundational pillars:
- Protection: Protecting women and girls from gender-based violence during conflict.
- Participation: Ensuring women’s equal involvement in peace negotiations and political institutions.
- Prevention: Preventing violence against women and girls by addressing the root causes of conflict.
- Relief and recovery: Incorporating gender perspectives into post-conflict recovery efforts.
Program structure and experience
The fellowship is a fully funded, immersive residential program held in Edinburgh and the historic Traquair House in the Scottish Borders. The unique setting provides a safe and neutral space for dialogue and cross-cultural exchange, fostering deeper connections among participants. The typical one-week program for the October 2025 cohort includes:
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- Expert-led workshops and training: Sessions are led by experts from Edinburgh Law School and other fields. Topics include:
- Gender-sensitive mediation and negotiation skills
- Transitional justice mechanisms and gendered approaches
- Addressing the nexus of gender, conflict, and the climate crisis
- Using creative arts as a tool for peacebuilding
- Strategies for self-care and resilience in high-stress environments
- Peer-to-peer learning: Fellows share personal experiences and challenges from their diverse contexts, providing valuable insights and mutual support.
- Networking and alumnae community: The program fosters a lasting network of women leaders. An evolving Alumnae Community of Practice promotes long-term collaboration and continued knowledge-sharing.
- Cultural experiences: Participants engage in cultural activities that enrich the cross-cultural dialogue.
- Expert-led workshops and training: Sessions are led by experts from Edinburgh Law School and other fields. Topics include:
Eligibility and application
The fellowship is open to women working or interested in peacebuilding, conflict resolution, or humanitarian response in conflict-affected areas. Eligibility requirements typically include:
- Being a woman from a conflict-affected country.
- Strong communication skills in English to participate effectively in all program activities.
- Commitment to attending the entire program in person in Scotland.
- Submission of an application form, CV, passport copy, and a letter of recommendation.
Impact and legacy
Since its inception, the fellowship has trained hundreds of women from over 25 countries across the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa. By supporting women’s meaningful participation, the program addresses the chronic underrepresentation of women in formal peace negotiations, a major barrier to achieving lasting peace. The initiative contributes to the broader Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda by:
- Amplifying the voices and priorities of women peacebuilders.
- Providing practical tools and strategies to increase women’s influence in peace processes.
- Building a resilient network of empowered women leaders who can advocate for gender-sensitive policies and inclusive peace agreements.
- The fellowship has received recognition for its work in empowering women’s voices and promoting more inclusive peace processes.
The Empowering Women in Conflict 1325 Fellowship is not just a training program; it is a catalyst for transformative change. Investing directly in women leaders from the frontlines of conflict helps translate the ideals of UNSCR 1325 from policy into practice. The fellowship’s emphasis on peer support, resilience, and networking ensures that participants leave not only with new skills but with a powerful, enduring community dedicated to building a more peaceful and just world.
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