Women and Peace

Women are the worst affected by conflict. They bear the brunt of it because when war comes, they often become targets of sexual violence, their husbands and children may be killed – leaving them without support, and they are themselves the majority of casualties of war. Women make up 80% of those who have to flee their homes. In DR Congo, more than 200,000 women have been raped in a decade of conflict.

But women are not only victims, they can be central in the fight for peace. The award of the 2011 Nobel Peace Prize to three women from Liberia and Yemen recognised this vital role. When the men of fighting age have disappeared to war, women become the heads of household, conservers of the community and rebuilders of the economy.

Women’s perspectives are invaluable – they can make a unique contribution by offering their perspectives and taking advantage of the roles expected of them. While international bodies have urged greater participation of women in peace building work, our local peace builders show that women are already often at the forefront of the mission for a lasting peace. source