Work

Whose security counts? Gender norms, ethnic marginalization and conflict prevention in Southeast Asia

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Cross-border and non-traditional peace and security issues affect state stability, human security and social cohesion in Southeast Asia. However, experiences of insecurity and state security responses are shaped by gender and ethnic inequalities. The Women, Peace and Security agenda has highlighted how gender and ethnicity norms often constrain the protection and participation of women and minority groups in governance structures. In this paper, we ask whether and how these norms impact people’s capacity to prevent and/or respond to insecurities in the Southeast Asian region? We studied this question in Cambodia and Laos where communities confront insecurity and conflict arising from land dispossession, climate change, drug use, forced migration and gender-based violence. Utilizing a mixed-method research design, we surveyed 2091 respondents and conducted more than 84 key informant interviews across four provinces in the two countries. Our analysis reveals how unequal gender and ethnicity norms are reinforced within communities and institutions, undermining effective conflict prevention and security responses. This gender-sensitive evidence on perceptions of insecurity and the gender confidence gap in security responses should inform efforts to strengthen peace and security efforts.

Source: Frontiers in Political Science

DOI: 10.3389/fpos.2026.1885186

Authors: Helen Stenger, Jacqui True, Katie Buchhorn, Wilasinie Sopapol

Institutions: Monash University, Griffith University

Language: English

Topic: Gender, Security, and Conflict

Subfield: Gender Studies

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Gender equality, Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,418