In a landmark recognition of her unwavering commitment to gender equality in military operations, Major Radhika Sen has been honored with the UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award 2023. Sen is a native of Himachal Pradesh and is the second Indian to win this award since its inception in 2016.
Recognizing her Dedication to Gender Equality
The Secretary General of the United Nations, Mr Antonio Guterres congratulated Major Radhika Sen on her achievement, describing her service as “a true credit to the United Nations as a whole.” He explained that “ in an escalating environment in North Kivu, her troops actively engaged with conflict-affected communities, including women and girls “ further elaborating that she earned their trust “with humility, compassion and dedication.”
In a statement released by the UN, Sen was described as a ‘role model’ for both male and female peacekeepers as she “fostered a safe space for men and women to operate together under her command.” She is also said to have ensured that all activities conducted under her command were in adherence to gender and socio-cultural norms.
Major Contributions and Achievements
Major Radhika Sen served as the Commander of the Engagement Platoon for the Indian Rapid Deployment Battalion in Eastern DRC with the UN peacekeeping mission, MONUSCO from March 2023 to April 2024. She was placed in the North Kivu province, a hotbed of conflict between the March 23 Movement (M23) and the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF).
In this complex political, ethnic and economic landscape, Sen made numerous efforts to facilitate peaceful living conditions. She held english classes for children and also organized gender and vocational training for displaced and marginalized adults. “Her efforts directly inspired women’s solidarity, providing safe space for open dialogue” claims the UN statement.
Major Sen also encouraged the village of Kashlira to collectively address issues, to stand up for their rights and amplify their voices within the community, especially in local security and peace discussions. Moreover, she created Community Alert Networks which served as a platform for the locals to raise their security and humanitarian concerns. These concerns were then addressed by Major Sen and her colleagues at MONUSCO.
Inspirational Journey
Born in Himachal Pradesh, Major Radhika Sen joined the Indian army eight years ago. She is a graduate in biotechnology and decided to join the defense forces when she was pursuing her masters at IIT Bombay.
On receiving the award Major Sen expressed her gratitude saying “This award is special to me as it gives recognition to the hard work put in by all the peacekeepers working in the challenging environment of DRC and giving their best to bring a positive change in the society.”
The Importance of the UN Military Gender Advocate Award
This award was created in 2016 by the Office of Military Affairs within the Department of Peace Operations (DPO) under the United nations. It recognizes the military peacekeeper who has best integrated the gender perspective into peacekeeping activities, according to the UN Peacekeeping website. Major Suman Gawani was the first Indian to win this award in 2019.
It is recognitions like these that bring glory to our nation, encouraging the youth and adults alike to contribute to a more inclusive, co-operative and peaceful society.
