Strengthening Women in Security and Justice to Prevent Violent Extremism

The prevention of violent extremism begins long before violence occurs. It starts with awareness, trust, inclusion, and informed action within communities and institutions. Under the Mwanamke Imara Initiative, Youth and Women for Peace and Sustainable Development (YOWPSUD) continues to invest in strengthening the capacity of women in security and justice institutions to play a proactive role in preventing violent extremism and radicalization.

Women as Pillars of Prevention

Women in security and justice institutions occupy a critical space at the intersection of policy, enforcement, and community engagement. Through Mwanamke Imara, YOWPSUD recognizes women not only as implementers of security responses, but as key prevention actors who can:

• Identify early signs of radicalization and social polarization

• Promote rights-based and gender-responsive approaches to security

• Strengthen community trust in justice and security institutions

• Facilitate dialogue and non-violent interventions at the local level

When women are equipped with the right knowledge and skills, prevention becomes more effective, inclusive, and sustainable.

Building Capacity Through Knowledge and Learning

A core pillar of Mwanamke Imara is capacity strengthening. As part of this commitment, YOWPSUD encourages women in security and justice institutions to continuously build their understanding of violent extremism, its drivers, and prevention approaches that uphold human rights and the rule of law.

One such opportunity is the OSCE E-Learning Course:

Fundamentals of Preventing Violent Extremism and Radicalization that Lead to Terrorism

This free, self-paced course provides foundational knowledge that directly aligns with Mwanamke Imara’s objectives. It supports women professionals to deepen their understanding of:

• The dynamics and pathways of violent extremism and radicalization

• Human rights-based and rule-of-law compliant responses

• Media literacy and the role of narratives in preventing extremism

• Community-centered approaches to prevention and resilience building

The flexible learning format allows women to participate while balancing demanding professional roles.

Why This Matters for Mwanamke Imara Women

Through Mwanamke Imara, women are supported to move from participation to leadership in prevention. This course strengthens women’s ability to contribute to institutional decision-making, early warning mechanisms, and community engagement strategies that address the root causes of violent extremism.

By enhancing knowledge and confidence, women in security and justice institutions can:

• Strengthen institutional responses to hate speech and polarization

• Support prevention efforts that prioritize dialogue over force

• Advocate for inclusive and gender-responsive security policies

• Act as mentors and role models for other women in the sector

Call to Action: Invest in Your Leadership

YOWPSUD, through the Mwanamke Imara Initiative, encourages women in security, justice, and peacebuilding spaces to take advantage of learning opportunities that strengthen prevention efforts and professional growth.

👉 Enroll in the OSCE E-Learning Course: Fundamentals of Preventing Violent Extremism and Radicalization that Lead to Terrorism (OSCE E-learning)

An empowered woman in security is an asset to peace, justice, and resilient communities. Through Mwanamke Imara, women continue to lead the way in preventing violent extremism and building a safer future for all.