Christian Aid and Queen’s University Belfast have jointly released a 56-page booklet titled Queering the Women, Peace and Security Agenda. Funded by the British Academy Innovation Scholarship, the booklet explores the inclusion of LGBTQ+ perspectives, particularly those of transgender activists, in global peace and security efforts.

The publication features a glossary defining key terms such as ‘cisprivilege,’ ‘non-binary,’ and ‘transgender,’ aiming to provide readers with a foundational understanding of LGBTQ+ concepts. Additionally, it delves into topics such as toxic masculinity, the colonial roots of gender systems, and the influence of patriarchal structures in legal and societal frameworks. The booklet emphasises the need to reimagine and reshape gender norms and power dynamics to create more inclusive societies.

A toolkit included in the booklet offers guidance on responding to and addressing microaggressions, such as incorrect pronoun usage. It also provides interactive exercises designed to map out existing power imbalances and promote more equitable interactions.

Christian Aid’s perspective on gender is outlined on their website for readers: “We believe gender justice goes beyond achieving equality and fairness between women and men. Gender is a spectrum that encompasses transgender individuals, intersex persons, and others who identify outside traditional definitions.”

As the booklet has been co-published by Christian Aid, a partnership of people, churches and local organisations committed to ending poverty worldwide, it has sparked interest from various faith groups.

According to Premier Christian News, the Presbyterian, Church of Ireland, and Methodist churches were contacted for their views on this “queering” of the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda. The Presbyterian Church acknowledged its collaboration with Christian Aid on numerous initiatives but clarified that it does not necessarily endorse all projects undertaken by the organisation. Meanwhile, the Church of Ireland highlighted its cooperation with Christian Aid through its Bishops’ Appeal, which focuses on poverty relief and human dignity. The Methodist Church did not provide a comment.

This publication represents a significant step toward integrating LGBTQ+ considerations into broader peace and security dialogues, while also prompting discussions among religious communities regarding the intersection of faith and gender inclusivity.