Final answer:
Difference feminists believe that integrating women's perspectives in matters of war and peace leads to different approaches, with women typically centering health, safety, welfare, and democratic arrangements that can foster a more peace-oriented agenda in international relations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Difference feminists focus on the unique contributions and perspectives of women in various aspects of life, including war and peace. They believe that because of their different experiences and socialization, women might approach issues of conflict and peace differently from men. From a feminist theory perspective, the traditional state has been considered a masculine institution which predominantly focuses on hard policy issues such as conflict and security through the actions of men while often sidelining issues like development and access to social programs.
In terms of the impact of gender on war and peace, difference feminists argue that integrating the perspectives of women into state policies and international relations can lead to an increased focus on health, safety, welfare, and more democratic arrangements, potentially fostering greater emphasis on peace and conflict resolution.
The inclusion of more women in positions of power within governments, as noted with historical figures such as Sirimavo Bandaranaike, has often resulted in a broader approach to state policy that includes issues affecting women and children, suggesting that the feminine perspective may enhance the focus on peace and social wellbeing within international relations.