Efficacy of Implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 In Enhancing Political Participation of Women in Somalia

Abstract

The research investigated the social and cultural obstacles that hinder female political involvement in Baidoa Somalia throughout the 2020/2022 Federal elections period. Women encounter major obstacles despite being protected by international and constitutional agreements which promote gender equality. The general objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of implementation of UNSCR1325 in enhancing political participation of Women in Somalia. Specifically, the study sought to achieve the following research objectives: to examine the influence of educational attainment on women’s political participation in Baidoa, Somalia; to assess the influence of beliefs on women’s participation in politics in Baidoa, Somalia; to evaluate the influence of gender roles on women’s political participation in Baidoa, Somalia and to investigate the influence of societal attitudes on women’s participation in politics in Baidoa, Somalia. The study used Liberal Feminism Theory together with Constructivism Theory and Human Security Framework Theory as its theoretical foundation to establish a descriptive research design. The research investigated a total of 125 participants who included 100 voters in combination with 10 elected leaders and 10 community leaders together with 5 representatives from the local authority. The researcher chose stratified sampling and calculated a sample size of 95 based on Yamane’s formula. The data collection process involved structured questionnaires which received analysis through descriptive and inferential methods alongside thematic analysis of qualitative data. The study results appeared in combination with tables and figures accompanied by narrative explanations. The research achieved a 91% response rate from which 86 participants managed to complete the survey. The research established that women achieve higher political engagement through educational progress yet cultural values and gender roles with societal stereotypes act as significant hindering factors. The results from regression analysis revealed education had a significant positive relationship (β = 0.421, p = 0.000) and cultural norms displayed a negative relationship (β = -0.312, p = 0.001). Pearson correlation analysis results demonstrated two strong relationships: education and participation produced r = 0.533 (p < 0.01) while societal attitudes and discrimination generated r = 0.671 (p < 0.01). Women develop leadership abilities and self-assurance through education yet cultural gender roles together with family care duties and lack of political connections prevent them from participating in the political system. The authors stress the importance of implementing solutions such as policy reforms and civic education programs and work-life balance support to overcome these obstacles. The report advocated for female educational investments together with awareness initiatives and gender-aware policies and mandatory affirmative action to advance women's participation in political activities. The implementation of enhanced legal structures will create equal political possibilities for women within Baidoa and Somalia in general.