Reykjavik Summit in Höfði: A closed-door roundtable session

This event is by invitation only

At a time of increasing geopolitical tensions, protracted conflicts, and shifting global security dynamics, inclusive approaches to peace and security are more critical than ever. Despite clear evidence of their impact, women remain underrepresented in formal peace processes and security decision-making. Elevating women’s leadership is not only a matter of equity, but a strategic imperative for sustainable peace. 

Building on the Reykjavík Summits held in 2018 and 2019, this convening aims to: 

● Reaffirm the critical role of women in Security and Defense decision-making processes. 

● Facilitate high-level dialogue among global women leaders on current and emerging security challenges 

● Generate actionable insights and recommendations to advance women’s leadership and participation in peacebuilding and security decision-making in line with the Women, Peace and Security agenda 

● Reinforce Reykjavík’s historical and symbolic role as a site for transformative dialogue and international cooperation

Guiding Questions 

● What roles are women currently playing in security, defense, and peace negotiations, and where are the most critical gaps? 

● What structural and institutional barriers continue to limit women’s participation and leadership in these fields? 

● How does women’s inclusion concretely impact the effectiveness and outcomes of security strategies and peace negotiations? 

● What policy and institutional changes are needed to strengthen women’s roles in defense, security, and peace processes? 

● How can governments and international actors better support and scale women’s leadership across these domains? 

● How can we turn the Women Peace and Security agenda into action?

Timeline for the session:

14:00 - Bus departs from Harpa

14:10 - Participant arrive at Hofdi House

14:15 - Session starts

15:45 - Bus departs from Hofdi House

16:00 - Participants arrive at Parliament Hotel