This article examines why, despite the active roles women undertook in peace building activities in Solomon Islands during the 1998-2000 ethnic tensions, their activities were not translated into greater political representation in the post-conflict period. Women were relegated to the sidelines because they were unable to break the feminine stereotypes and challenge traditional power hierarchies. We argue that it was because women’s activities were based on gendered stereotypes that they were unable to challenge traditional power imbalances in Solomons politics. We apply three arguments. 1. Women’s experiences and voices are often excluded and men’s are promoted as ‘real’ in IR. 2. Needing critical examination is the myth that the state provides protection for women and children in times of conflict. 3. Unreflectively linking women and peace can have negative consequences.