EUMAM MOZ celebrates Women's Month

Gender perspectives for stronger peace support operations

Maputo, Mozambique - In the context of celebrating an entire month dedicated to women, the EUMAM MOZ Gender Adviser delivered lectures to the Peace Support Battalion in Moamba and to the Military Training School of the Mozambican Army in Manhiça, focusing on peace support operations from a gender perspective, on 26 February and 4 March, respectively.

The sessions were carried out in close collaboration and following an invitation from of the Mozambican Defence Armed Forces (FADM), through Colonel Paulina Mariquel, Head of the Gender Affairs Department, and highlighted the importance of gender-sensitive approaches in operational environments, addressing international frameworks from the United Nations (UN), African Union (AU) and European Union (EU), as well as gender-specific challenges such as promoting equality and preventing gender-based violence.

They were also organised in the context of the celebrations dedicated to women in Mozambique, including 4 March - Female Detachment Day, 8 March - International Women's Day, and 7 April - Mozambican Women's Day.

The participants engaged in open discussions, providing space for questions, clarifications and the sharing of experiences from their different operational realities. This exchange allowed FADM personnel to reflect on the challenges they face and discuss possible starting points for solutions.

These discussions also linked Mozambique's context to the UN Women, Peace and Security Agenda, reinforcing the role of inclusive leadership and diverse perspectives in building resilient institutions and lasting peace. Advancing gender equality is not only a matter of rights - it also strengthens peace, security and stability by ensuring more inclusive and effective responses to crises.

EUMAM MOZ continues to operate in full compliance with International Humanitarian Law, International Human Rights Law and the Women, Peace and Security agenda. The Mission is currently commanded by Commodore César Pires Correia of the Portuguese Navy and comprises more than 80 military and civilian personnel from 12 nationalities.

European Union Military Assistance Mission in Mozambique, 2025