Ghana’s Squadron Leader Sharon Mwinsote Syme has been honored as the United Nations 2024 Military Gender Advocate of the Year. This prestigious recognition highlights her outstanding dedication to promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls during her service with the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA), a mission established to maintain peace in the disputed region of Abyei between Sudan and South Sudan.
Since being deployed in early 2024 as the Mission’s Military Gender Adviser, Squadron Leader Syme has worked tirelessly to influence local communities positively. Her efforts have included organizing workshops and training sessions aimed at integrating the perspectives and needs of women and girls into security policies and peacebuilding strategies. By fostering inclusive dialogues, she has ensured that the voices of women—often marginalized in conflict settings—are not only heard but actively considered in decision-making processes.
Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, praised Squadron Leader Syme, stating, “She exemplifies the principles of gender advocacy in peacekeeping.” Lacroix emphasized that her unwavering commitment has not only enhanced the effectiveness of UNISFA’s operations but has also made the mission more reflective of and responsive to the diverse communities it serves.
In a press release issued by the United Nations, it was announced that the award ceremony will take place on the International Day of UN Peacekeepers, which is observed annually on May 29. In a formal gathering at UN Headquarters in New York, Secretary-General António Guterres will present the award to Squadron Leader Syme, honoring her significant contributions to advancing gender equality in peacekeeping efforts.
This recognition underscores the critical importance of integrating gender perspectives in all aspects of peacekeeping and conflict resolution.
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