Gender Perspectives in the Armed Forces and Military Operations: An uphill battle : Cultural, structural and functional factors that prevent or promote implementation of UNSCR 1325 in the Norwegian Armed Forces and NATO

In 2000, the UN adopted UNSCR 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, and an ambitious Norwegian Government consequently assigned numerous tasks to the Armed Forces. Based on theories of gender and transformational change, the Gender Project of the Norwegian Armed Forces, Norwegian Ministry of Defence’s communications, and interviews with NATO gender experts was analysed to identify factors that affect implementation in the military domain. The study reveals lack of conceptualisation, resulting in lack of structures, command and control, and a vital reward and discipline system. The organisational culture resists change, tolerates deceptive reporting, and ridicule of gender perspectives and experts. Implementation depends on individual expertise, education and funding. And while the Government officially confirms commitment and a high degree of frustration with the Armed Forces’ lack of implementation, no disciplinary consequences are imposed. NATO gender experts report similar challenges in NATO, but has made more progress. They voice frustration over Norwegian officers in the NATO command structure and lack of commitment from Norway, as a country expected to lead on this subject in the Alliance