- Major Radhika Sen, who undertook service with the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is poised to receive the esteemed 2023 Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award.
- The award also acknowledges her endeavors aligned with the objectives of the 2000 Security Council resolution, which seeks to safeguard women and girls from sexual violence associated with conflicts.
- Major Sen’s approach, characterized by humility, compassion, and dedication, has earned her accolades from Guterres, who commends her as “a true leader and role model.”
- Major Sen has spearheaded initiatives aimed at empowering women and girls within the eastern DRC.
- From organizing English language classes for children to providing health, gender, and vocational training for adults, her efforts have had a tangible impact on the lives of many.
- Major Sen’s decision to pursue a career in the Indian Army during her master’s degree studies at the IIT Bombay reflects her unwavering commitment to serving her country and advocating for gender equality on a global scale.
In a world where the struggle for gender equality persists, Indian Army Major Radhika Sen emerges as a beacon of hope and inspiration. Her remarkable journey from the hills of Himachal Pradesh to the forefront of peacekeeping efforts in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) exemplifies unwavering commitment, courage, and dedication to advocating for the rights of women and girls worldwide.
Major Sen’s forthcoming recognition by the United Nations with the prestigious 2023 Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award underscores her significant contributions to promoting gender equality within the realm of international peacekeeping. As UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres prepares to bestow this honor upon her on the International Day of UN Peacekeepers, her story serves as a testament to the transformative power of leadership and compassion in the face of adversity.
Throughout her tenure with the Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO), Major Sen has embodied the principles outlined in the 2000 Security Council resolution, which calls for the protection of women and girls from conflict-related sexual violence. Her leadership in establishing the Community Alert Networks in North Kivu provided a platform for marginalized voices to be heard, fostering collaboration among community leaders, youth, and women to address pressing security and humanitarian concerns.
Major Sen’s approach, characterized by humility, compassion, and dedication, has earned her accolades from Guterres, who commends her as “a true leader and role model.” Her ability to engender trust among conflict-affected communities, particularly women and girls, amidst escalating tensions in North Kivu underscores the pivotal role of gender-sensitive peacekeeping in building sustainable peace.
Beyond her peacekeeping duties, Major Sen has spearheaded initiatives aimed at empowering women and girls within the eastern DRC. From organizing English language classes for children to providing health, gender, and vocational training for adults, her efforts have had a tangible impact on the lives of many, paving the way for greater gender equality and social inclusion.
Born and raised in Himachal Pradesh, Major Sen’s decision to pursue a career in the Indian Army during her master’s degree studies at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay reflects her unwavering commitment to serving her country and advocating for gender equality on a global scale. Her journey from a biotechnology engineering student to an Engagement Platoon Commander with the Indian Rapid Deployment Battalion is a testament to her resilience and determination to effect positive change.
Major Sen’s recognition as the recipient of the Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award marks a significant milestone in her illustrious career, making her the second Indian peacekeeper to receive this honor after Major Suman Gawani in 2019. Among the thousands of Indian personnel deployed in UN peacekeeping operations, Major Sen’s exemplary leadership stands out, inspiring both men and women to work together towards a more inclusive and peaceful world.
Her legacy extends beyond accolades, as Major Sen’s efforts have created safe spaces for women to come together, discuss critical issues, and actively participate in building a better future for themselves and their communities. Through her leadership and tireless advocacy, Major Radhika Sen exemplifies the transformative power of gender-sensitive peacekeeping and the profound impact it can have on the lives of those affected by conflict. As she continues to champion the cause of gender equality on the global stage, her story serves as a reminder that every individual has the power to make a difference, one courageous step at a time.
(With inputs from agencies)
