In the spirit of International Women’s Day on 8 March, RSIS and The Embassy of Sweden cordially invited Dr Noeleen Heyzer to share her invaluable insights into the workings behind the UNSCR 1325: Women, Peace and Security on Mon 7 March at the Residence of the Swedish Ambassador. The conversation between participants and Dr Heyzer focussed on the changing nature of conflict in the late 1990s, where women and children were increasingly used as weapons of war. Since its passage in October 2000, resolution 1325 has significantly advanced women’s rights in conflict situations and brought to light the absence of women in negotiations and peace-building efforts. The number of peace agreements incorporating women’s rights have increased over the years. Despite this progress, a lot remains to be done. More female negotiators and mediators are needed, and demobilisation and reintegration processes have to take into account the role of female fighters in conflicts, moving beyond recognizing women as victims. Dr Heyzer concluded that in order to ensure that gender inclusivity remains at the top of the agenda, courageous women’s leadership in public spaces is essential.