PROJECT UPDATE
Project Overview
This initiative supported the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship (MREC) in Costa Rica in developing a National Action Plan (NAP) on Women, Peace and Security.
Project Profile
The Technical Assistance Partnership-Expert Deployment Mechanism (TAP-EDM) project, in collaboration with the Government of Costa Rica and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship (MREC), supported the design of the country’s first National Action Plan (NAP) related to UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security. The initiative included concrete actions to promote women’s participation and leadership in peace and security initiatives and decision-making processes.
Under the leadership of MREC, national gender specialists in public policy and peacebuilding and Elin Miller, a Canadian expert in gender equality, peace, and security, led a participatory and collaborative process for creating the NAP. The team reviewed national legislation and international agreements and policies, identified relevant stakeholders, and organized workshops to support the development of the first draft of the NAP.
Key Deliverables
- Capacity Support and Training
- Organized Mesa de Trabajo (MTI) workshops on NAP development, peace, security, and women’s participation in Costa Rica
- Facilitated three MTI workshops with key stakeholders from various ministries and departments
- Held a hybrid “Master Class” for NGE staff and partners on Canada’s GE laws, policies, and GBA Plus analysis
- Organized a reception for foreign diplomats, international organizations, and selected CSOs
- Technical Support and Knowledge Products
- Prepared five reports summarizing the MTI workshops.
- Submitted a progress report on NAP development with suggested next steps and key resources.
Project Outcomes and Lessons Learned
The TAP-EDM project ensured that Canadian expertise aligned with the needs of Costa Rica’s Ministry of Gender Equality (NGE). Clear communication and collaboration were key to advancing the project successfully.
Reach and Engagement
Direct Project Reach:
- 38 participants engaged through workshops and project activities
Public Engagement (Canada):
- 66 Canadians reached through outreach and knowledge-sharing events
Public Engagement Activities:
- Canadian expert Elin Miller visited two classes at the University of Ottawa for the course “Conflict resolution and peacebuilding” and published several social media posts on the initiative
