RESDAL Presents IPI Report on the Operational Importance of Integrating Gender into Peacekeeping Intelligence

RESDAL is pleased to share the report The Operational Imperative of Integrating Gender into Peacekeeping-Intelligence, published by the International Peace Institute (IPI) and authored by Sarah-Myriam Martin-Brûlé. 

The report examines why integrating gender into peacekeeping intelligence is not only a normative commitment, but a core operational requirement for effective peace operations. The publication is available in English. 

The report underscores that improving peacekeeping’s understanding of its operating environments through Peacekeeping Intelligence (PKI) is critical to enhancing the safety and security of UN personnel and strengthening the protection of civilians. Despite growing recognition that gender dynamics shape conflict behaviour, threat patterns, and engagement with local communities, gender perspectives remain unevenly embedded across PKI institutions, analytical processes, and training systems. 

Drawing on UN policy frameworks and more than 100 interviews conducted across five UN peacekeeping missions, the report identifies persistent structural, analytical, and institutional gaps that undermine gender-responsive intelligence. These gaps constrain situational awareness, weaken early-warning capabilities, and limit overall mission effectiveness. 

The analysis focuses on three interrelated dimensions where progress is urgently needed: 

●     Institutional representation, including the recruitment, retention, and advancement of women within peacekeeping intelligence units;

●     Analytical integration, ensuring that gender perspectives are systematically incorporated throughout the entire intelligence cycle;

●     Training and capacity development, through the design and delivery of intelligence education that is responsive to gender dynamics.

The report argues that integrating gender into peacekeeping intelligence strengthens predictive capacity, enhances civilian protection, and improves mission performance. Advancing this agenda requires sustained investment in workforce diversity, analytical methodologies, data systems, training design, and institutional coordination. .

👉 Download the report (PDF – available in English)