High-level seminar marks Finland’s expertise in peacemaking and gender equality

The 8th seminar of its kind aims to advance the participation of women in peace mediation.

The previous High-Level Seminar on Gender and Inclusive Mediation Processes took place in Oslo last year. Photo: Ebba Tellander / PRIO

The 8th High-Level Seminar on Gender and Inclusive Mediation Processes is taking place in Helsinki between 10-12 October. Hosting the High-Level Seminar in Helsinki amid Finland’s centenary celebrations marks Finland’s historical legacy and expertise in peace-making and gender equality.

The seminar is an UN training aimed at advancing the participation of women in peace mediation and promoting the implementation of gender sensitive peace processes. The seminar is arranged by UN Department of Political Affairs together with CMI in Finland and Peace Research Institute of Oslo.

Finland and Norway provide the funding for the seminar which is held alternately in the two countries. Strengthening inclusive mediation and women’s role in peace processes is a priority for Finland, and the seminar is also a showcase of Nordic cooperation in practice.

The seminar is hosted in collaboration with CMI, and brings together diverse mediation actors including UN envoys and high-level representatives from regional organizations, civil society and academia. Throughout the years, the seminar has proved to be a key forum in which senior mediators can learn from each other’s experiences and share their practices.