Second Edition of the International Summer School "Women, Peace and Security" Successfully Concluded
The second edition of the International Summer School "Women, Peace and Security" (WPS Summer School), titled "Women, Peace and Security in Practice: Preventing Divisive Narratives and Strengthening Social Cohesion," was held at the University of Sarajevo – Faculty of Criminal Sciences, Criminology, and Security Studies from 14 to 18 September 2026.
This year's Summer School gathered 23 participants who, over five days, had the opportunity to discuss contemporary challenges in the field of women, peace, and security, as well as the interconnection between the WPS and Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) agendas, through lectures, interactive workshops, discussions, and experience sharing. Special attention was dedicated to harmful narratives, hate speech, polarization, disinformation, social cohesion, and the role of women and youth in building more inclusive and peaceful societies.
The program enabled participants to examine global security and peace agendas through practical examples, diverse experiences, and perspectives. Throughout the program, participants had the opportunity to learn from domestic and international experts, representatives of the academic community, and international organizations, while developing their own perspectives on how education, dialogue, and mutual connection can contribute to preventing divisions and strengthening social cohesion.
The second edition of the Summer School represents a continuation of a successful program developed by the Faculty with the aim of connecting the academic community, international organizations, institutions, and youth through themes of peace, security, inclusion, and social resilience.
The organizers of the Summer School are the Faculty of Criminal Sciences, Criminology, and Security Studies and the University of Sarajevo, continuing their partnership with the United Nations in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the United Nations in Albania, with support from the United Nations Secretary-General's Peacebuilding Fund (PBF).
We express our special gratitude to all lecturers, partners, participants, and members of the organizational team whose knowledge, energy, and engagement contributed to the successful implementation of this year's Summer School.
The conclusion of this year's program is not the end, but rather the beginning of new contacts, collaborations, and initiatives launched during these five days in Sarajevo.
