Balancing Advocacy and Local Ownership of Gender: Lessons Learned from Peace Building Processes at the Municipal Level in Kosovo

Abstract

This paper focuses on lessons learned regarding gender resulting out of peace building processes at the municipal level in Kosovo. The paper argues that a general willingness to engage with the gender topic exists among municipal leaders, although they are at the same time hesitant to adopt a gender agenda pushed on them by the international community. Reviewing the background of the Kosovo context and the methodology applied, the paper focuses on observations regarding gender and gender awareness, as well as drawing lessons learned. In conclusion, the paper demonstrates the importance to find the right balance between advocacy and local ownership of gender by treating gender as a cross-cutting issue in peace building processes.