Empowering Women in Puntland’s Maritime Security Sector

From 12-14 May, the EUCAP Somalia Field Office Puntland hosted the "Women in Maritime Security Network Puntland" workshop, bringing together 30 participants from law enforcement agencies, institutions and the blue economy sector, including 28 women. As the first workshop of its kind in Puntland with such strong female participation, it marked an important step toward advancing women's leadership and inclusion in maritime security.

The workshop focused on strengthening women's roles in the sector through leadership development, human rights and legal capacity building, and enhanced inter-agency cooperation. The Mission's Gender Adviser and Human Rights Adviser also contributed significantly to the workshop's design and delivery.

Supported by the Puntland Ministry of Women Development and Family Affairs (MOWDAFA), UNHCR, Kaalo Nederland Puntland and the Somali Women Association, the workshop provided a platform for dialogue, networking and knowledge exchange. Discussions addressed gender equality, access to professional development and professional challenges facing women in the sector. Participants also attended technical sessions on criminal procedure law, human rights in Search and Rescue (SAR) operations and victims' rights, alongside practical exercises to strengthen operational coordination and cooperation.

The workshop also enabled open discussions on challenges, experiences and opportunities to advance women's participation in maritime security in Puntland.