Building Peace and Trust Through Gender-Inclusive Understanding in the Western Balkans

Gender, Trust, and Peacebuilding in the Western Balkans

The Western Balkans continue to navigate the long-term impacts of the 1990s conflicts, including political polarization, fragile institutions, and low levels of public trust. While progress has been made toward stability and development, reconciliation remains incomplete. Persistent gender inequalities, limited civic space, and socio-economic disparities continue to affect social cohesion and undermine confidence in institutions. Women and marginalized groups are still underrepresented in decision-making, while gender-based violence and rising disinformation further erode trust.

This UN Women brief examines how gender and intergenerational inequalities shape perceptions of security, cooperation, and reconciliation across the region. Drawing on data analysis, desk research, and expert consultations, it highlights that although legal frameworks on gender equality are largely in place, implementation gaps persist. Women’s participation in political, economic, and security sectors remains uneven, and the experiences of youth, survivors of conflict-related sexual violence, and marginalized communities are often overlooked in peacebuilding processes.

Practical Pathways for Inclusive Peacebuilding

The publication identifies practical pathways to strengthen trust and inclusive peacebuilding:

• Promoting women’s leadership and meaningful participation in governance and peace processes
• Strengthening implementation of gender equality laws and access to justice
• Addressing gender-based violence and improving survivor-centred support
• Supporting intergenerational dialogue and youth engagement
• Countering disinformation and anti-gender narratives

Building Sustainable Peace

By placing gender equality and inclusion at the centre of policy and programming, the brief demonstrates how inclusive approaches can reinforce social cohesion, rebuild trust, and contribute to sustainable peace in the Western Balkans.