WFWP United Nations Office Newsletter Summer 2016

UN CSW60: WFWPI Parallel Event and Dinner Gala Engaging Women in Sustainable Development: Family Ÿ Transformation Ÿ Co-Prosperity March 15, 2016 - Salvation Army Auditorium, New York City Contents At the UN in New York CSW60 WFWPI Events------------------------ 1 CSW60 Summary Report----------------------- 2 At the UN in Geneva 31st Human Rights Council Sessions-------3-4 World Humanitarian Summit------------------- 4 Reflections on Internship----------------------- 8 At the UN in Vienna Commission on Narcotic Drugs--------------- 5 Leave No One Behind--------------------------- 5 At the UN in Bangkok International Women’s Day--------------------- 8 Activities Around the World WFWP Kenya & Thailand---------------------- 6 Young Women Leaders Retreat---------------- 7 Upcoming Events----------------------------------12

By Roshan D’Souza has been providing free medical visits and CSW60 and WFWPI Speakers The Women’s Federation for World Peace distributing free medications to women in need while raising awareness of the warning March 14-24, 2016 - UNHQ New York International held their annual parallel event during the ten-day 60th session of the signs of maternal and child mortality. She By Jeanne Carroll UN Commission on the Status of Women also outlined AIM’s vision for comprehensive Since its initial involvement with the UN (CSW60). Mrs. Alexa Ward, Deputy Director, sustainable development and stressed that Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) WFWPI UN Office, moderated a panel of global development should be based upon in 2003, the Women’s Federation for World four women speakers at this historic event the four pillars of peace, universal human Peace, International (WFWPI) has hosted entitled: “Engaging Women in Sustainable rights, green economy, and global partnership. and supported parallel events on an annual Development: Family. Transformation. Co- Within these pillars, AIM identifies peace, basis. This year saw a significant increase in Prosperity.” This first CSW event after the security, and stability as the cornerstones of the number of opportunities afforded WFWPI launching of the 17 Sustainable Development CSD and supports the enactment of “paid leaders and UN Team members to speak at side Goals (SDGs) focused on the role and family leave.” Dr. Daou concluded by calling and parallel events organized by member states importance of women as mothers, wives and for greater engagement of women in sustainable and NGOs. The following is a brief summary. leaders and was enthusiastically celebrated development as warranted by gender equality’s For WFWPI, these opportunities to speak by women of different races, nationalities crucial role in the proper implementation of began with a parallel event, sponsored by and backgrounds. Those in attendance were the SDGs. She reminded us that persisting WFWPI, and co-sponsored by the Association reminded that the hand that rocks the cradle gender gaps resulting in lack of female access de Intervention pour les Meres, (AIM), and produces the future leaders that can rock a to property, transport, education, and health Family Watch International, on March 15, with nation and rule the world. services will threaten sustainable livelihoods the theme, “Engaging Women in Sustainable Dr. Amalle Daou, medical for women, subsequently hindering the overall Development: Family, Transformation, Co- d o c t o r, w i f e o f f o r m e r implementation of the SDGs. Prosperity.” The panel of four included Mrs. Permanent Representative of Annie Franklin, Director of Carolyn Handschin, International Vice Mali to the UN, and founder International Activities, Family President for Europe and Director of the UN of Active Intervention for Watch International, presented Office for WFWPI. The moderator was Mrs. Mo t h e r s ( A I M ) , s h a re d “Motherhood and the Family,” Alexa Ward, International Vice President and about AIM’s mission and stating that mothers hold the Deputy Director of the UN Office. commitment to improving maternal and child future in their hands and need Mrs. Lily Lin, WFWPI International health, highlighting the organization’s direct to feel empowered. Motherhood is increasingly Vice President, Asia, spoke on “Women support of the MDGs No. 4, 5, and 6 and being viewed as an unfair burden placed SDGs No. 3 and 6. Since its creation, AIM CSW60 Parallel Event, contd. on pg. 11 CSW60 WFWPI Speakers, contd. on pg. 10 Summer 2016 1

At the UN in New York… CSW60: Summary Report Women’s Empowerment and It’s Link to Sustainable Development March 14-25, 2016 - UN Headquarters, New York City Statement of Purpose By Bonnie Berry among Member States. They also provided a The Women’s Federation for World Peace International (WFWPI) supports a network Close to 1100 NGOs sent more than platform for NGOs to discuss and advocate of National WFWP Chapters in over 120 nations 8000 representatives to the 60th Session for particular issues. The number of NGO that are dedicated to empower women with “the of the UN Commission on the Status of representatives on national delegations is knowledge, the tools and the support needed to Women (CSW60). These NGO representatives increasing due to in large part to UN Women’s create peace at home, peace in our communities, joined global leaders, the private sector and urging Member States to do so. our nations and throughout the world.” Over the course of the two week session, there activists in celebrating the 2030 agenda and  its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), were many exceptional programs, speakers and WFWP programs, designed according to local while advocating for the central role of women messages. The Women’s Federation for World needs and capacities, include: leadership training Peace, International (WFWPI) sponsored for women and girls, education for peace and and girls in fulfilling the seventeen SDGs. reconciliation, skills development and advocacy at Forty-four United Nations Member States a parallel event with the theme, “Engaging major UN Offices and various regional and national sent formal delegations and an additional 119 Women in Sustainable Development: Family. institutions. In support of United Nations Sustainable Member States sent delegations as observers Transformation. Co-Prosperity.” which is Development Goals, WFWPI maintains over one to the proceedings. There was truly global covered in detail in a separate article. One hundred service projects in fifty nations, in the areas representation in attendance at CSW60. parallel event, entitled, “Women’s Leadership: of education, vocational training, microcredit, AIDS Paving the Way to Achieving the Sustainable During the two weeks of CSW60, in addition prevention education, technical support, medical Development Goals,” was co-sponsored by assistance and nutrition guidance. to the formal proceedings, there were over 230 Side Events sponsored by Member States Soka Gakkai, Soroptomists International, the WFWP Chapters adhere to the principle that and UN Agencies held within the UN and Global Movement for a Culture of Peace, women, working together, taking initiative and empowering one another across traditional lines 450 Parallel Events sponsored by NGOs and the Bahai` Faith. Panelists included of age, race, culture and religion to create healthy held all throughout New York City. These Emilia Reyes, Co-chair of the Women’s families, are resolving the complex problems events presented experience, good practices, Major Group (WMG) and John Romano, of our world. Ultimately “solutions” come as and lessons learned on the priority theme Transparency, Accountability and Participation true partnerships between men and women are of “Women’s Empowerment and its Link to (TAP) Network Coordinator for the World established in all levels of society. The beginning point Federation of United Nations Associations. is within society’s most elemental level—the family. Sustainable Development” and the review theme of “Elimination and Prevention of all Mr. Romano discussed the importance of From there, peace will naturally expand. forms of Violence against Women and Girls.” national governments engaging their citizenry Carolyn Handschin These events fostered discussions dealing with to actively participate in the achievement of Publisher & Editor-in-Chief the creation of action plans to accelerate the the SDGs. He stressed the importance of implementation of the Beijing Platform of identifying indicators and collecting both Yeon-ah Choi Moon Action. hard data and documentation of people’s Senior Advisor Editor Regional Caucuses at CSW provided an perceptions and experiences. Mr. Romano Rebecca Ward - Editor opportunity for NGO representatives to further emphasized the importance of the Christina Lange - Distribution learn about the status of the negotiations CSW60 Summary, contd. on pg. 9 Friederike Buczyk - Layout & Design CSW60 Parallel Event Sponsored by Nation to Nation Networking This newsletter is published by the United Nation’s Office of the Importance of Understanding Culture to Women’s Federation for World Peace Int’l Achieve the SDGs and Empower Women 4 West 43rd Street New York, NY 10036, USA March 19, 2016 - UN Church Center, New York City For information, subscriptions, comments or By Cynthia Shibuya, incorporating ideas with which the patients are WFWPI Representative at UN more familiar (i.e. holistic medicines) into the editorial suggestions, please write Ms. Asrat, Founder of Nation to Nation healing process. Her sensitivity to the diversity to our New York address. Networking, opened the event by having each of patients’ cultural backgrounds has allowed Email: unoffice@wfwp.org her to establish trust with her patients, which speaker introduce herself, beginning with Other Major UN Offices Fatima Ahmed, an Ambassador of Peace as is a key factor in the healing process. Through Geneva, Switzerland well as the Founder and President of Zenab for Dr. Alcarez’s broad-minded, inclusive and Ch de la Pierreire 1c Women in Development. Fatima’s organization sometimes unorthodox approach to healing, 1092 Belmont-sur-Lausanne is based in the Sudan, where it works to help she has been able to build a successful practice Phone/Fax +41 21 728 8812 further the education of Sudanese women and and offer quality care. Email: c.handschin@wfwp.org provide them opportunities for advancement. June Terry, a fashion consultant, attended Vienna, Austria Kathryn Alcarez is a medical doctor from the event dressed in a traditional African dress which she herself designed. A daughter Gustav Mahler Promenade, 1 the Philippines who practices in New York. of sharecroppers, Ms. Terry is committed to 5020 Salzburg She treats patients from a myriad of countries and cultures. Many of her patients have expressing pride in the culture of her parents Phone: +43 650 885 1988 specific cultural perspectives and practices and ancestors and works to instill that same Email: e.riedl@wfwp.org which make it difficult for them to fully trust pride in her family and others. Her fashion line Find us on the Web at modern medicine. Dr. Alcarez is sensitive of dresses and accessories reflects her African http://www.wfwp.org to these cultural differences and makes culture and heritage. every effort to bridge the gap in practices by Culture & SDGs, contd. on pg. 8 2 WFWPI-UN Newsletter

At the UN in Geneva … 31st HRC: Human Rights Mainstreaming & Agenda for Sustainable Development February 26, 2016 - UNHQ Geneva By Carolyn Handschin on the empowerment of the people and This year’s Human Rights Council’s inclusive governance. High Commissioner Zeid annual half day discussion on Human Re’ad Al Hussein remarked that the Right to Rights Mainstreaming focused on the 2030 Development offers an “enabling environment 31st Session of the Human Rights Council (HRC) Sustainable Development Agenda, looking at to ensure that the goals of the Agenda be its relationship to the Right to Development, achieved in practice and that the processes of a major concern of the work of the Council. development are inclusive and just.” Work is (According to the General Assembly Resolution urgently needed to make a two-way flow of 41/128, the Right to Development “entitles every information from Human Rights institutions’ human person and all peoples to participate in, resources such as the Universal Periodic Review contribute to, and enjoy development, in which (UPR) and Human Rights Councils’ Special all human rights can be fully realized.” This not Procedures (independent human rights experts very concise definition contributes to concerns of with mandates to report and advise on human it becoming a “right to everything” and as such, rights from a thematic or country-specific remains in the body of “soft law.”) perspective). HRC High Commissioner Zeid Re’ad Al Hussein (Jordan) The President of the Human Rights Council Ms. Kate Gilmore, Deputy HCHR, was the (HRC), UN Secretary General, the High panel moderator. She proposed the meeting as Commissioner for Human Rights (HCHR) an opportunity to reflect on the Millennium and the President of the General Assembly Development Goals, and reminded all that (GA) all made opening statements. Ambassador “human rights are not competitors for security Choi Kyong-Lim, the President-elect of the and resilience, but they are fundamental 31st HRC, launched the debate by reminding building blocks.” The first panelist was the audience of the importance of creating Mr. Zamir Akram, Chair of the Working mechanisms to monitor the implementation Group on Development. He stressed that the of the SDGs. The 2030 development goals relationship between the SDGs and the Right put human rights and people at the very center. to Development are symbiotic and without SG Ban Ki-moon appoints Maestro Barenboim/West SG Ban Ki-moon said that the HRC is “a vital meeting basic human needs, there can be no Eastern Divan Orchestra as UN Global Advocate for guardian of human rights,” giving victims a human rights. Cultural Understanding “venue, a vehicle and a voice.” The realization Ms. Helen Clark, current and first woman Executive Director of the UN Population of the SDGs is not possible without security Administrator of the UN Development Fund (UNPF), Mr. Babatunde Osotimehin, and peace- and human rights, the core of our Program, emphasized that human rights remain contended that the 2030 Agenda is a historical humanity. core to all forward-looking strategies of the benchmark, especially in the participatory Mr. Morgens Lykketofft, GA President, UN. In the other direction, all current decisions process that led to it. The prioritized call for explained that the development goals need are rooted in the wisdom and strengths of women, young girls and youth is especially to move beyond the UN and be owned by our founding documents and this provides stability and continuity. The third panelist, Mainstreaming, contd. on pg. 12 governments and people. Success will rest

31st HRC: Annual Day on the Rights of the Child Internet and ICT - What are the Dangers for Children and Young People? March 7, 2016 - UNHQ Geneva By Claire Millet, University Student and children and young adults on the Internet covers sites with sexual or violent content, but WFWPI Intern and some of the unforeseen side effects of the it can also mean the restriction of educational The Annual Day designated to discussions “protections” being put into place. or health-related sites. So the question remains- related to the Rights of the Child during the Young people have quasi unlimited access how to balance the child’s right to information March Session of the Human Rights Council to the Internet and often freely surf the Web. with their right to be kept safe from harm? put emphasis on the potential dangers of Among the frequent threats children face while As it respects the protection of personal Information and Communication Technology surfing the Web are web-harassment and cyber- information, paradoxically, in order to protect (ICT) to youth and children. There were several bullying by peers. It was reported that children young people, the provision of personal debates that dealt with the risks that children who are not aware of the potential dangers of information, such as birth dates, is often potentially face when they use the internet. The the Internet are most vulnerable to harassment required for age verification purposes. This need for new standards and policies that protect and easily become prey for people with perverse collected and stored information can then be children on the Internet was addressed, that intentions. Among other dangers, personal and shared with suppliers, hackers, etc. would allow adults to provide fast and effective private information is also vulnerable on the In addition to the breach of private intervention when necessary. Internet, particularly on networks frequented information, young people must be wary about It is no secret that Internet technology takes by young people. relationships formed on the Internet. Adults up more and more space in daily life, enabling In order to protect children from the dangers as well as peers can become a threat to young people to contact friends and share information. of the Internet, mounting legislative pressure is people on the internet. Young people are more What is less known and understood is the pushing Internet service providers to censor and vulnerable to manipulation and the prevalence continuous appearance of new threats affecting filter sites of high risk to youth. This censorship Rights of the Child, contd. on pg. 12

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At the UN in Geneva … International Council of Voluntary Agencies & World Humanitarian Summit Complementarity in Humanitarian Action April 5, 2016 - Geneva By Carolyn Handschin emergency response. Language and cultural Key representatives of the diverse and barriers must be overcome.” It was this 5th complex humanitarian “ecosystem” that principle that became the focus of the ICVA responds to populations in crises met in Geneva, conference. ICVA Plenary Session Switzerland for the annual International The main issue at hand was how to operate Council of Voluntary Agencies (ICVA) humanitarian programs effectively in the current from both the humanitarian actors and the conference. The attendees included the UN, crowded “aid” environment when national vulnerable populations. Red Cross and Red Crescent, government and local governments, local institutions and The three focal points of the conference representatives who represent donors and an increasingly concerned private sector are were defined: “unpack” the concept of recipients, and a broad array of humanitarian addressing the same crises and stepping on complementarity; share good practices in NGOs and academics. each other’s toes. All of these organizations, complementarity and its impediments; and, Early in the conference, reference was working simultaneously together and at odds link the concept of complementarity to the made to the “Principles of Partnership,” a with one another, may avoid communication, upcoming First World Humanitarian Summit groundbreaking agreement, endorsed in causing overlap and wasted resources (human (WHS) in Istanbul from May 23-26, 2016. 2006 by the Global Humanitarian Platform, and other). WFWPI has joined the Geneva- Each session’s theme was introduced succinctly which “brings together the UN and non-UN based network with an eye on becoming more by two “experts,” allowing much time for humanitarian organizations on an equal footing.” effective in its own humanitarian programs, interaction from the participants, who were all, (http://www.globalhumanitarianplatform.org.) which span several continents and include over in fact, experts in their fields. This platform states that partnership should be 80 projects. Global consultations leading up to this based on 5 principles: equality, transparency, How to coordinate the international historic first WHS outlined a list of priorities result-oriented approach, responsibility and mandates, public perceptions, donor interest that demand political leadership, including: complementarity. Complementarity was and local concerns while creating a more causes of displacement, financing sources and defined as such in the Platform: “The diversity flexible, caring system that can assess and a shift from “delivering aid” to “ending need.” of the humanitarian community is an asset respond to the immediate and longer term These were all touched during the course of if we build on our comparative advantages needs of the affected? As was often mentioned the ICVA debates. The impending WHS gave and complement each other’s contributions. during the discussions, local capacities need an increased sense of urgency to the exchanges, Humanitarian organizations should strive to to be included and consulted. Calls for review knowing that the outcomes would be passed make (the local capacities) an integral part in of the system have been mounting, coming on to Istanbul.

31st HRC Side Event: Women’s Rights Post-Conflict Violence Against Women. From Words to Deeds. March 18, 2016 - Geneva By Dr. Amiira Neff, Representative at the against women is not the result of individual UN in Geneva for WFWPI and spontaneous acts of misconduct, but it is The 31st Session of the Human Rights deeply rooted in the structural relationship Council was held in Geneva from February of inequality between women and men. The 29 - March 24. WFWPI was invited to speak interaction between the advocacy of women at this side event organized by Maraismo. and UN initiatives was one of the main factors L-R: Nicole Thurner, WFWPI UN Intern; Dr. Amiira Neff, The following is a summary of Amiira Neff ’s that led to the inclusion of this issue in the WFWPI UN Representative, WFWP Member presentation. international agenda. Considerable progress has been made in the development of standards and demographic change, economic recovery and “Violence against women is a source of social and cultural movements. Women suffer internationally agreed criteria. Legal and policy misery and loss of life, and because of it, many violence in all kinds of environments: family, instruments have clarified the obligations of of the world’s women live in fear and pain. It community, state, and armed conflict and its States to prevent, eradicate and punish violence harms families across generations, impoverishes aftermath. Violence is a continuum in women’s against women, but around the world, states communities and reinforces other forms of lives, from birth to death, both in public life still do not meet international legal and policy violence in all societies. Violence against women and in private life. requirements. prevents women from achieving their potential, The most common form of violence hampers economic growth and undermines The cause of violence against women lies in the unequal power relations which, historically, experienced by women throughout the world development. The scope and extent of violence is violence by a companion, which sometimes against women are a reflection of the degree have existed between the genders. Patriarchal disparities of power, discriminatory cultural causes death. Traditional practices can also and persistence of discrimination that women be very harmful, including early and forced continue to face. We can eliminate it by norms and economic inequalities deny women their human rights and perpetuate violence. marriages and mutilation and/or female genital addressing discrimination, promoting gender ablation. In the community setting, femicide, equality, empowering women and ensuring Violence against women is one of the principal means by which men control the freedom of sexual harassment and trafficking of women are respect for their fundamental rights. receiving increasing attention. Violence by the women and their sexuality. Women’s movements and organizations State, through its agents, omission, or through around the world have shed a global spotlight There are many forms of violence against national policies, can also lead to violence on the issue of violence against women. Their women: physical, sexual, psychological and activities have highlighted the fact that violence economic. Some increase while others fade over Women’s Rights, contd. on pg. 12

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At the UN in Vienna … 59th Session Including Special Segment Commission on Narcotic Drugs March 14-22, 2016 - UN Vienna By Elizabeth Riedl are all in this together. The UNGASS process UN Vienna WFWPI Office Director has emphasized the shared responsibilities Women’s Federation for World Peace stemming from illicit drugs. These include the International Vienna Representative, Irmgard dangers of opiate production and trafficking Maentler, was one of the 1,500 International from Afghanistan; the fragility of regions quarters of the world’s population have little High level Government officials and Civil including West and East Africa; deadly violence or no access to such medicines. Our partners Society participants to attend the 59th Session. in Central America; the growing nexus of at the World Health Organization (WHO) The conference began with an UNGASS* organized crime groups and violent extremists estimate that each year, 5.5 million terminal video message by H.E. Mogens Lykketoft, profiting from the illicit drug trade; and the cancer patients and one million end-stage President of the 70th session of the UN never-ending proliferation of new psychoactive AIDS patients suffer needlessly. The UNGASS General Assembly. substances. process has helped to raise awareness of this Mr. Yury Fedotov, UNODC Executive Crucially, the UNGASS process has put the continuing global health problem, and the need Director gave the opening address. In his focus on the lives lost and the needless suffering to put people first when developing responses. address, he outlined the breadth of important caused by the world drug problem. Globally, Moreover, it has helped to put the spotlight resolutions that the commission was ready to some twenty-seven million people suffer from on considering, in appropriate drug-related consider, ranging from various aspects of the drug use disorders, including twelve million cases of a minor nature, including possession world drug problem to the prevention and people who inject drugs. Almost two hundred for personal consumption, alternatives to treatment of drug-related disorders. With so thousand people lose their lives each year as conviction or punishment, using such measures many Member States gathered together in a result of overdose and other drug-related as education, aftercare, rehabilitation and social one place, he urged those present to consider medical conditions. Some thirteen per cent of reintegration. This can further help to address ways in which countries could work together the people who inject drugs are infected with prison congestion and prevent the recruitment to strengthen international and regional drug HIV, compared with less than one per cent of vulnerable individuals in detention by hard control partnerships. The following is an among the general population. The incidence core criminals and even terrorists. excerpt from his speech: of hepatitis C among people who inject drugs The UNGASS discussions have also “By encompassing issues of drugs and exceeds fifty per cent. However, evidence-based highlighted the issue of the death penalty. A health, drugs and crime, human rights, security prevention, treatment and rehabilitation remain number of General Assembly resolutions have and safety, emerging challenges and sustainable at very low levels of coverage in many parts called for the abolition of, or a moratorium on, development, the UNGASS process has of the world. the use of the death penalty. Its application helped to promote a more comprehensive Under the drug control conventions, State for drug related offences has never been in understanding of the problems we face and, I Parties have committed to ensuring that the letter or the spirit of the drug control hope, encouraged a greater appreciation of the access to controlled narcotic and psychotropic conventions.” challenges faced by all countries and regions. substances to relieve pain and suffering is not * UNGASS, or The United Nations General Assembly Our global approach to the world drug problem unduly restricted, while recognizing the need to Special Session, is a meeting of UN member states to assess and debate global issues such as health, gender, or in this must be inspired by many local priorities. We prevent abuse, misuse and diversion. Yet three- case, the world’s drug control priorities

Access to Education and Security for Refugee Children, Women & Youth “Leaving No One Behind” the integral roles of awareness and education April 13, 2016 - UN Vienna in changing the present state. His talk was By Jana Lajdova very inspiringly shared, with open hearts, about followed by a graduation ceremony of Youth The conference was hosted by the WFWP their efforts to make this world a better place Education Ambassadors. Nineteen young Europe and brought together experts from for refugees. All of the speakers shared about people received certificates for participating in various NGOs from the political and cultural their work and experience with great passion. voluntary youth work around the world. fields. The conference created the platform Particularly interesting was the presentation The conference concluded with some talks through which to share each other’s views and by Saheeb Majida, a youth education on global citizenship. One of the final speakers experiences in working for the improvement of ambassador who spoke in the third session. mentioned that changing the world requires the refugee education situation in Europe and He spoke very honestly about how we, citizens passion, not just the sharing of knowledge. around the world. of rich countries, often take our blessings for This event brought together many passionate The conference was divided into four granted while there are people who do not even people and hopefully they can continue to work sessions, entitled Inclusive Education Field have a roof over their heads. He emphasized passionately together for a good cause. Reports and Interventions, Access to education for refugee children: Policy, practice and commitment, Global Quality Education for Global Citizenship – A Call to Action, and Education and Global Citizenship. There was a coffee break in the middle of the session which afforded participants an opportunity to network and share some personal time with each other. The content and order of the topics was well-balanced in this event. The speakers were

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Activities Around the World: Kenya & Thailand Women’s Federation for World Peace, Kenya Celebrates International Day of the Girl Child October 31, 2015 WFWP, Kenya held the commemoration of and CBOs, as well as representation from two sanitary towels donated by the WFWP Kenya. the International Day of the Girl Child at the girls’ schools. This event was an opportunity to educate guests Kayole Girls Rehabilitation Center in Nairobi The significance of the day was explained by on the vision of the Founders of WFWP. on October 31, 2015. This commemoration Mrs. Anne Ketuny and the main address was The Director of the K a yo l e Gi r l s was inspired by the United Nations General given by Mrs. Susan Kone, the Chairperson of Rehabilitation Center, Mr. David Arika, Assembly which, on December 19, 2011 WFWP Kenya and the IVP for Africa concluded the event by thanking WFWP for adopted Resolution 66/170 to declare the 11th The entertainment was provided by the girls’ hosting and for the kind donations provided for October as the International Day of the Girl rehabilitation center, St. Thaddeus Child Care the girls. The event was attended by 153 guests. Child to recognize girls’ rights and the unique Society School, Strength of a Woman CBO and challenges girls face around the world. various other youth groups. The event in Kenya was attended by various It was a happy event and the girls participated community leaders, leaders of various NGOs in cutting the cake and they each received

Women’s Federation of World Peace, Thailand Celebrates International Children’s Day November 20, 2015 Color My Heart with Peace, a project of the Women’s Federation for World Peace, Thailand, aims to encourage children to develop, by promoting their creativity and imagination. The focus is to encourage children to use their free time to contribute to society. Each year, WFWP, Thailand organizes an awards ceremony for the winners of a drawing contest which is held annually to coincide with and commemorate the UN’s International Children’s Day. This year WFWP, Thailand organized its 11th drawing competition, aimed at creating an awareness of the environment. 416 students competed. The drawing contest was divided into two age groups 1. Ages 4-6 on the topic “Water conservation forest loves the world.” 2. Ages 7-10 on the topic “Protecting the environment with love.”

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Young Women Leaders WFWPI’s 1st Annual Young Women Leaders Retreat March 18-20, 2016 - New York By Krista Smith and Rebecca Ward house in Queens. For this trial year, two large Twenty-one young women representing eight houses were rented out through Airbnb. countries and nine WFWPI leaders from four Saturday morning participants ate breakfast of the seven WFWPI regions gathered together in their houses in Queens and then returned to in New York City for Women’s Federation Manhattan for a day rich with education and for World Peace, International’s first annual empowerment. Dr. Padmini Murthy, a medical Young Women Leaders Retreat. It was an doctor who serves on the Executive Committee honor to have WFWPI President, Prof. Yeon of NGO CSW NY, kicked-off the morning Ah Moon, participate in the entire retreat, with a talk entitled, “Women as Advocates which spanned from Friday night through Rock the World.” In her lecture, she gave many Sunday night, and featured a packed schedule examples of women throughout history who of lectures and activities. The group size was have made significant impact through advocacy. capped at thirty in order to foster an intimate The second speaker was Dr. Thomas Ward, Day 3: Visit to Presidential Library of Dean of the College of Public and International Franklin D. Roosevelt And Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt setting in which participants could absorb the educational materials and connect to and Affairs at the University of Bridgeport. He Following the panel was a session on empower one another to further the work and gave a clarifying overview of the history advocacy by Ms. Majandra Acha, with the vision of WFWPI. and founding of the United Nations. The Women’s Environment and Development The retreat took place during the weekend third speaker, Mr. Donald Lee from the UN Organization. Participants were given the between the two weeks of the 60th Session of Department of Public Information (DPI), gave advocacy manual, a publication by NGO CSW the UN Commission on the Status of Women a talk on the importance of the new Sustainable NY. The speaker guided participants through (CSW60). Many of the retreat participants Development Goals and the impact of such the most important and challenging aspects of had already been in the city for several days, goals on the future of the world. Following this advocacy. The final presentation, given by Mrs. participating in CSW60. A two-week annual session, the group broke for lunch. Lynn Walsh, co-chair of the NGO Committee event, CSW offers participants a rich, diverse The afternoon talks began with a panel on the Family, was an anecdotal exploration of array of events, in the UN as well as throughout discussion, led by Dr. Amalle Daou, a medical the speaker’s journey to her current position the city, hosted by UN member states and doctor whose husband was the former within the UN. Following the final lecture, NGOs. Ambassador from Mali to the UN. She is the the MC, Ms. Teresa Ferrette, member of the The retreat opening dinner was held on president of an NGO called Active Intervention Board of Directors of WFWP, USA, led the Friday, March 18. After a brief introduction to for Mothers (AIM). She pulled together a group in a short review of the day during which

Day 1: Welcome Dinner & Introductions Day 2: Panel Discussions & Lectures Day 3: Visit to Roosevelt Library, Hyde Park NY

the weekend by Mrs. Alexa Ward, International panel of herself, Mrs. Mamie Thompson, participants shared about lessons learned and Vice President and Deputy Director of the an international educator, and Ms. Yiling key takeaways. Participants were then given a UN Office for WFWPI, participants enjoyed Li, President of UCT International Culture free evening to explore NYC and get to know a buffet-style dinner. Following the meal, each Development Organization. The three engaged one another. participant introduced herself to the group by in a discussion entitled, “The Diplomatic Side On Sunday morning participants left bright sharing a bit about her background as well as of Life,” and shared insights from their various and early to travel to Hyde Park, NY to visit one fun fact. After introductions, participants diplomatic roles and experiences. divided up into two groups, each bound for a Young Women Leaders, contd. on pg. 9

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At the UN in Bangkok International Women’s Day Celebration 2016 Empower ASEAN by Women March 8, 2016 - Bangkok Mrs. Kamoltip Payakvichien, President of the its own flag. Following the ceremony, a Women’s Federation for World Peace, Thailand, discussion took place between the ambassadors, attended the International Women’s Day representatives and some business experts from event in Bangkok together with three WFWP the ASEAN countries. The event was a great Thailand board members. The event was success and WFWP Thailand was honored to Int’l Women’s Day Celebration in Bangkok organized by the National Council of Women participate. of Thailand and was held in the organization’s auditorium in Ban Manangkhasila. The Women’s Federation for World Peace, Thailand is a corporate member of the National Council of Women of Thailand, which is under the Patronage of Her Majesty the Queen of Thailand. During the event, the struggle which women have undergone in order to attain equality, development and peace was celebrated and commemorated. A flag ceremony was held Mrs. Kamoltip Presenting the WFWP Flag Mrs. Kamoltip and 3 WFWP Thailand Board Member in which each member organization carried

Culture & SDGs, contd from pg. 2 Reflection on WFWPI Internship Program Geneva Final Report about the United Nations March 2016 By Nicole Thurner look for complicated answers, when the Women’s Federation for World Peace solution is simple, based on nature, ecology. If International gave me the opportunity to we want a ‘Human Family’ where no one would experience the United Nations for three weeks. be left behind, we need to cultivate that sense I was able to learn a lot and it helped me to of empathy and concern for others.” improve my ability to have compassion for My hero during this whole time was three- people who are in greater need than I. I also time Nobel Prize nominee, Dr. Denis Mukwege realized that I am very fortunate to live in a from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Cynthia Shibuya spoke on the value of good environment, with people around me I Understanding and seeing what he is doing preserving and appreciating the cultures of can trust and love and a life that is generally touched my heart very much. He is not only others as well as the culture of one’s ancestors. more comfortable than difficult. When I look a doctor but is taking care of the emotionally Expressing interest and appreciation in another’s closely at what I have in my life, I cannot destroyed girls and women in Africa. He is culture creates an underlying, unifying factor in complain about anything and I only feel very literally healing broken hearts and bodies. a new relationship, she shared. This approach grateful for my current situation. I am grateful for all the realizations I took would go a long way toward creating a unifying The internship opened my eyes to a home with me, and I want to give a special atmosphere during peace negotiations. There is different world which I was not seen before thanks to Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, the Founder great history and heart tied up in culture which the internship. It widened my perspective of Women’s Federation for World Peace, makes it so precious. on different races and cultures which I didn’t Carolyn Handschin, and many other people Ms. Asrat spoke passionately about cultural understand before. who supported me throughout this time. traditions practiced in the family as a key factor It was striking to look inside myself and to in preserving culture. In these modern times, realize that I lived a very ignorant life so far. I many families are particularly concerned with only cared about my own situation, my career, how to pass on their culture and traditions to my family, and my future. But what about the future generations. To that point, Ms. Asrat future of those who never had the freedom shared that if children experience warmth and of choice for a brighter future? Can we really love in their family as traditions are practiced consider ourselves human beings if we just look while growing up, they will often continue out for our own happiness and success? those traditions in their own families. I learned that the United Nations has a The event ended with a short question and clear vision, as expressed in the Sustainable answer segment. Although the event centered Development Goals. I was reflecting a lot on the topic of how to achieve the SDGs on those goals, especially since Mrs. Carolyn through the understanding and preservation Handschin told me that we first need to of cultures, the majority of questions were understand, how we can “sustain” something. concerned with how to preserve and pass on She said, “Co-prosperity is when the cultural and family traditions, underlining the desire of each citizen is for the prosperity importance of culture and tradition and how of the other. That is the only guarantor of With Geneva Ambassador Makarim Wibisono. Former close this topic is to the hearts of many. sustained prosperity. … Is it possible to make General Assembly (2000) President and HRC’s Special Rapporteur on Palestine; Nicole right. transformative and lasting change? We often 8 WFWPI-UN Newsletter

Young Women Leaders, contd from pg. 7 the home and Presidential library of Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt. At the library, the group received an animated lecture on the role of FDR in the founding of the United Nations at the conclusion of World War II, from Mr. Jeffrey Urbin, Education Specialist. After a tour through the FDR museum, the group went to Eleanor Roosevelt’s home at Val-Kill cottage, where they were able to take an intimate glance into her life as well as her role as the driving force behind the creation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights while she served as chair of the United Nations Human Rights Commission.

“As a woman who suffered a great deal of loss and hardships in her childhood, Eleanor WFWPI. The tone throughout the evening was an empowered group of women and learning Roosevelt made sure to prepare a better one of passing the torch; of the older generation about leadership on a global level and how future: one in which basic human rights would relaying the knowledge and skills they gained to move forward with our goals/mission was be acknowledged and practiced in all nations.” and offering support to the younger generation enlightening.” Ms. Yuru Wang from Austria - Jin hee Handschin, Participant in taking up the mantle. commented, “Through this weekend I have been reminded once again how important The retreat concluded with an intimate WFWPI’s work promotes women’s responsibility we as young women are to the process of dinner in Tarrytown, New York. Mrs. Carolyn in the quest for world peace. This retreat was peace building.” The staff of WFWPI hope Handschin, International Vice President and very inspiring and insightful. It has shown us the annual addition of this retreat will mark Director of the UN Office, gave a presentation that women can play a role in today’s society. a new era of WFWPI, under Prof. Yeon Ah - Yuru Wang, Participant from Austria on the founders of WFWPI, Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon’s leadership, in which young leaders Moon, and the Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. are nurtured and trained by the great women Prof. Yeon Ah Moon, President of WFWPI, As the first Young Women Leaders Retreat proceeding them. gave closing remarks and three participants concluded amongst hugs and phone number offered testimonies on their experiences swaps, the group took time to reflect on throughout the weekend and on their personal the weekend. Mrs. Josephine Stewart from journeys related to their involvement with Canada shared, “Spending the weekend with

CSW60 Summary, contd from pg. 2 in order to achieve peace, advance education, a profound and high profile panel in which and protect the planet and its people. indigenous women leaders articulated honest broad participation of civil society in the Another notable side event, “Indigenous assessments of the tragic challenges faced by implementation of the SDGs. Ms. Reyes Women and Girls: Pathways to Equality,” was indigenous communities around the world explained the structure of the Women’s Major co-sponsored by Canada, the Group of Friends due to treaty violations, federal governments’ Group (WMG), and clarified the role it plays of Indigenous Peoples, the United States, and partnerships with corporations to violate in facilitating access to the General Assembly the Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on the environment and disrespect land rights for women. The nine members of the WMG Indigenous Issues. This inspiring panel of in the name of economic development, have a voice within the General Assembly but indigenous women leaders represented an assaults on indigenous women and girls no voting authority. The WMG facilitates the important emergence of openness about the exacerbated by marginalization, and more. The participation of women and safeguards that plight of indigenous women around the world panelists’ testimonies were juxtaposed by the space. UN experts dialog with the WMG on and the perspectives they offer on sustainable stature, clarity and determination for progress grassroots issues involving women, so WMG development. The panel, moderated by Ms. expressed by each of them. members are able to impact the language used in draft and outcome documents in a variety Jody Wilson Raybould, included Attorney Canada’s First Lady, Sophie Trudeau, of settings including links to financing for General and Minister of Justice of Canada; participated in the event’s opening ceremony, development and the environment. (Learn Ms. Chandra Roy Henriksen (of Bangladesh), which was a traditional Mayan ceremony more at http://www.womenmajorgroup.org/). Chief of the Secretariat of the UN Permanent conducted in order to thank ancestors and Following panelist presentations, participants Forum on Indigenous Issues; Dr. Myrna honor the feminine energy, representing the of the parallel event worked in small groups to Cunningham of Nicaragua; Ms. Betty Lyons, universe. As a cosponsor of the event, Canada brainstorm ways to remove structural barriers President and Executive Director of the demonstrated its commitment to the challenges American Indian Law Association. This was CSW60 Summary, contd. on pg. 10

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CSW60 WFWPI Speakers, contd from pg. 1 who led the march of 20,000 women in 1956 sponsored by the National Council of Women that brought light to segregation and women’s US, and Nation to Nation Networking on Empowerment and Sustainable Development” issues today. The saying, “You strike a woman, Saturday, March 19. at a parallel event sponsored by the Taipei you strike a rock,” was initiated during the Nandi Bengu, who represents WFWPI with Economic and Cultural Office of New York time of the march, and has come to represent DPI, represented WFWPI at a co-sponsored on Thursday, March 17. She reported on the women’s courage and strength in South Africa. side event on Monday, March 21, with the core value of the Family. She stressed that ours is a global family and as such WFWP, Taiwan Also on March 18, Jeanne Carroll, a Permanent Missions of Honduras, The Gambia has developed three core focuses: Sound member of the WFWPI UN Team in New and Indonesia, and the NGOs United Families Development of Youth & Anti-Drug Abuse and York, who serves as the primary WFWPI International; the Howard Center for Family, AIDS Prevention education; Empowerment representative to NGO CSW NY, spoke on Religion and Society; and the Universal of Women & Family Happiness program; a panel sponsored by the Tabernacle Worship Peace Federation. The title of the program Networking & Altruistic Service. Her hope for and Prayer Ministries, UNESCO Center for was “Toward a Sustainable Lifestyle: Women the future of Taiwan and passion for WFWP’s Global Education, Association of Muslim Empowered and Families Strengthened.” Ms. worldwide vision and mission was clearly felt Women, and Women in Ministry Association. Bengu moved the gathering as she spoke on the by all in attendance. She spoke on the need for people of faith to need for all children to feel loved and cherished bring their faith into the UN in support of the by their fathers. Along with the South African Minister of topic, “Empowerment of Women in Religion WFWPI leaders have the opportunity to Social Development, the Hon. Bathabile Olive on the 2030 Development Agenda.” become well-rounded and informed through Dlamini, Professor Yeon Ah Moon, President, WFWPI, and Mrs. Alexa Ward were honored Due to her long-time work in intercultural access to a worldwide network of activities, to speak at a side event on March 18. The event relationships, Cynthia Shibuya, a member of programs and reports. As a result, they are able was held at the Harlem State Office Building in the WFWPI UN Team in New York, who has to speak with passion and knowledge on various New York, and was sponsored by the Permanent represented WFWPI with the Department topics which deeply resonate with women. Mission of the Republic of South Africa and of Public Information (DPI) for many years, The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) the NGO, Ilitha LaBantu, with the theme, was asked to speak on “The Importance of will be achieved as information and service “South African Commemoration of the 60th Understanding of Culture to Achieve the expands person to person, group to group, and Anniversary of the Historic Women’s March UN SDGs and Empower Women.” Mrs. NGO to NGO. Those women who represent of 1956.” The event was moderated by Ms. Shibuya spoke on the value of preserving WFWPI in their countries, as well as at the Nandi Bengu, a member of the WFWPI UN and appreciating the cultures of others as UN, are committed to achieving the SDGs, in Team in New York. Professor Yeon Ah Moon well as one’s own. Expressing interest in and partnership with governments and NGOs, and introduced WFWPI, the Founders, and the appreciation for another’s culture creates a are committed to the realization of a world of founding vision. Alexa Ward spoke about Lilian very unifying factor in a new relationship and lasting peace. Ngoyi and Helen Joseph, two of the women also in any peace negotiation. The event was

Ms. Nandi Bengu, WFWPI Representative to DPI/NGO South African Commemoration of the 60th Anniversary New York State Senator Bill Perkins with WFWPI Leaders of the Historic Women’s March of 1956

girls within affected communities was brought to the NGO Community via the NGO CSW CSW60 Summary, contd from pg. 9 to light. The parallel between exploitation Executive Committee, NY. He reflected that facing indigenous women and girls through of Mother Earth and women and girls was the negotiations were tough but productive, its commitment to increase gender parity, drawn. The panelists strongly urged those in adding, “Delegates developed a practical, with Prime Minister Trudeau’s appointments attendance to get indigenous women and girls implementation-focused text that produced of women to half of the cabinet positions. “on the radar” of all UN agencies in order some specific new language on pressing topics. Additionally, in Canada, women now preside to ensure that they are not left behind on the One of the particularly strong points of the as Attorney General and Minister of Justice, road to implementation of the sustainable text is the language on the participation of civil Minister of Indigenous Affairs and Minister development goals. Focusing on advancement society and the enabling environment needed of Women, all of whom attended the side of indigenous women and girls will “raise all for the achievement of gender equality.” Mr. event. Canada has launched an inquiry into boats.” Glossner affirmed the important contribution the unexplained murder or disappearance of of the NGO CSW NY toward increasing the over 1500 indigenous women and girls over As CSW60 wrapped up, delegations from Member States concluded negotiations on civil society input in the negotiations, giving the past 30 years. The event panelists called for civil society credit for some of the new, a CSW priority theme of “Empowerment of the final wording of the outcome document, known as the Agreed Conclusions. This stronger language. (Note: Agreed Conclusions Indigenous Women” to bring more visibility found here: http://www2.unwomen.org/~/ to the issues and challenges facing these most document recommits Member States to the advancement of women and girls, builds media/headquarters/attachments/sections/ vulnerable communities. The panelists also csw/60/csw60%20agreed%20conclusions%20 emphasized success stories that resulted from upon existing UN policy frameworks, and prioritizes addressing current and emerging 24march.pdf ?v=1&d=20160408T142735) determined and persistent advocacy to change chronic injustices faced by their communities. issues and challenges. Mr. Andreas Glossner, The theme for CSW61 (2017): Women’s The tie between mineral extraction industries Vice President of the 60th session of CSW, Economic Empowerment in the Changing took time to circulate the Agreed Conclusions World of Work. and an increase in sexual assault of women and 10 WFWPI-UN Newsletter

WFWPI Parallel Event, contd from pg. 1 SDGs, governments, civil society, and families intersecting with religion and cultural spheres on females due to childbirth, with women must work together. Families have the potential prolonging careers and finding their value in to live in a culture of peace because they were competing with men. trained in a microcosm of one. Franklin cited the Journal of Genetic Psychology to point out that the availability Sh a r o n Pe d r o s a , C o - of the mother brings more self-esteem and founder of Montage Initiative’s resilience to children as they deal with life Student Advisory Board, gave events. If the mother is absent, children were the final presentation on often found to be more lonely, depressed “Sustainable Development in India: Women Taking the WFWPI Parallel Event Audience and anxious. The presence of fathers was demonstrated to be equally important in Lead.” She cited The World Commission on preventing child abuse occurring in single- Environment and Development’s definition parent and co-habitating couple homes. The of sustainable development as “…development Secretary General stated that “The stability that meets the needs of the present without and cohesiveness of communities and societies compromising their own needs.” Yet, even rest on the strength of the family.” (SG Family with changing laws, the enforcement of such Report 2011 A/66/62-E/2011/4). Professor laws is lagging. Pedrosa found that women in Richard Wilkens of the Doha Institute found India deferred their own right to vote to their “Healthy, stable families had significant benefits husband’s voting choice. When widowed, for children and their parents and for society.” women only had a right to property if there were no sons. Pedrosa stressed that sustainability WFWPI Parallel Event Panel Mrs. Carolyn Handschin, can only be achieved when women are valued Director of WFWPI UN and respected. Office, in her presentation, “Can the SDGs bring us to During the question and answer session Co-Prosperity?” applauded following the presentations, middle school the SDGs for providing a students in attendance from the School of framework for global thinking Science and Technology asked some insightful but emphasized the limitations in the questions. One young student asked, “What enforcement of those goals. She suggested that will make these goals a reality?” The answer co-prosperity could be achieved by people living given was the citation of the preamble in for others, which, although not a generally the GA Resolution/70/1 which states: “We are resolved to free the human race from the WFWPI Parallel Event Question & Answer Session practiced concept by individuals, is a practice lived out in families every day. tyranny of poverty and want to heal and secure our planet. We are determined to take the bold According to Charles Malik, “The fastest way and transformative steps which are urgently to change a society is to mobilize the women needed… As we embark on this collective of the world.” Only love that is inclusive journey, we pledge that no one will be left and respectful of all can be the incentive to behind.” transform lives and cause people to think of the welfare of others more than their own. Dr. The students were told that if all Heads of Denis Mukwege of the DRC, known as “The State began their cabinet meeting each day by man who mends women,” was cited as a role reading the Preamble, Heads of State could model for viewing each of the 30,000 female take steps to meet each goal and target. Those victims of sexual violence that he has treated as present realized that among the youth, there if they were his own wife, daughter or mother. might emerge some who could, from the day’s Professor Yeon Ah Moon, WFWPI President Mrs. Handschin’s presentation concluded with inspiration, be impacted to make the SDGs the observation that in order to achieve the a reality.

WFWPI Dinner Gala Celebrating CSW60 March 16, 2016 - 4 West 43rd Street, New York City WFWPI’s International President, Professor mature leaders to bequeath their foundation Yeon Ah Moon, hosted an evening, celebrating to the next generation. CSW60, with 100 guests from more than Entertainment was provided by Raoul a dozen nations. Speakers from WFWPI’s Joseph, Steve Honey, and Jessica Garand’s Prof.Yeon Ah Moon addressing WFWPI Dinner Gala CSW forum, UN and NGO friends, as well Opportunity Music Project. The beautiful as WFWP leaders and guests, joined the gala. Seiko Lee impacted the audience with her In her welcoming remarks, Prof. Yeon Ah nightingale voice. The favorite moment of the Moon remarked on the passion of Dr. Hak Ja gala event voiced by of one of the participants Han Moon, co-founder of WFWPI, for raising was when everybody present held hands in a and educating youth and preparing them for circle and sang “Let there be peace on earth leadership roles. In addition, Professor Yeon Ah and let it begin with me,” bringing a warm Moon commented on the greater involvement and touching close to a lovely evening. It was of young men and women in this year’s CSW. a takeaway moment to cherish and a reminder Mrs. Nora Spurgin, founding president of that peace indeed begins with each one of us. WFWP, USA, emphasized the necessity for WFWPI Dinner - Opportunity Music Project Performance

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it can lead to important results, but it will Empower to Eradicate Poverty require a considerable investment of resources and constant assistance, particularly in least Support the efforts of WFWPI volunteers worldwide… developed countries and countries emerging from conflict. A more coherent and strategic Women’s Federation for World Peace Int’l approach is needed from all actors, including 4 West 43rd Street governments, the international community New York, NY 10036, USA and civil society. Until we have a collective awareness of the - Make checks payable to WFWP International or role of women in society, peace will be a dream Donate Online - and the conflict will be our daily living.”

WFWPI is a 501(c)3 Non-Profit Organization Rights of the Child, contd from pg. 3 Since 1994 WFWP has dispatched volunteers worldwide, to implement of cyber bullying has led to tragic loss of life and depression among young children who development assistance projects based on local needs. find themselves on the receiving end of such interactions. For children to protect themselves and build the capacity to weigh the risks of the Internet, it is essential that parents and adults are informed and educated about the risks - and how to guard For more information about projects, against them. To protect children from internet see Biennial Reports at threats does not necessarily mean to restrict access or adopt exaggerated monitoring efforts, www.wfwp.org but a sensible process of familiarization with the web through suitable education in cooperation between parents, children and friends, which HRC Mainstreaming, contd from pg. 3 Women’s Rights, contd from pg. 4 can go a long way toward protecting children noteworthy and he pledged the resources of against women. The high incidence of violence on the Internet. Education within the family is his agency to implement the aims, especially in against women in armed conflict, particularly a large factor for prevention. When children feel the fight against violence against women and sexual violence, including rape, has gradually at ease and trust their parents, they will feel free the collection of development-related data. been reported on. to discuss any disconcerting information with Mr. Yannick Glemarec, Deputy Executive The results of four demographic surveys on their parents. Thus, it is important to maintain Director of UN Entity for Gender Equality violence against women in situations of armed healthy communication and trust within the and the Empowerment of Women, said that conflict estimated that between 250,000 and family. In support of this reasoning, WFWP gender equality is a critical addition to the 500,000 Rwandan women were raped during emphasizes the importance of sustainable Development Targets and that States have a the 1994 genocide; between 20,000 and 50,000 family values and healthy moral practices within primary responsibility “for its achievement.” women were raped in Bosnia during the conflict the family. Human Rights instruments, including the of the early 90s and about 200,000 women and Convention on the Elimination of all Forms girls were raped during the armed conflict that of Discrimination against Women, will also be hit Bangladesh in 1971. an important ally for success. Physical, sexual and psychological violence Upcoming Events The final speaker was Mr. Jan Beagle, Deputy can constitute the daily lot of women in their Executive Director of UNAIDS. “Shrinking interactions with others in their neighborhoods,  April 10 WFWP 24th Anniversary space for civil society and lack of funding is on public transport, in their workplaces, in  May 15 Int’l Day of Families having a negative impact on fighting HIV/ schools, sports clubs, academic institutions, AIDS.” As a final remark, he referred to the hospitals and other social institutions,  May 23-27 25th Session of the “Rights Up Front Initiative,” mentioned several particularly religious. Forms of violence against Commission times during the panel and ensuing discussions, women and girls throughout the community on Crime Prevention & which, created in 2013, seeks to mainstream Criminal Justice include: sexual violence, sexual harassment, preventive thinking and action across the trafficking of women and forced prostitution.  June 13 - Human Rights Council board at the UN. Consisting of 5 Action Women who are victims of violence have a July 1 32nd Session in Geneva Steps, this project is intended to complement range of health problems, and their ability to  Aug. 12 International Youth Day governments’ responsibilities by consolidating earn a living and to participate in public life is  Sep. 13-26 71th Session of UN General assessment and strategizing about potential diminished. Their children are more likely to Assembly future risks and violations of human rights. have health problems, poor school performance  Oct. 11-13 WFWPI 20th Women’s As a general comment about the interactive and behavioral disturbances. The costs of Conference for Peace in the debate that followed, there was a near violence against women, apart from the human Middle East unanimous call for strengthening lines of cost, result in a reduction of economic output  Oct. 16 World Food Day communication and cooperation within and and training of human capital, and also lead  Oct. 17 Int’l Day of Eradication of between UN entities, governments and civil to political and social instability resulting from Poverty society actors in order to meet the 2030 an intergenerational transmission of violence. targets- on which the success will depend  Oct. 24 United Nations Day Violence against women should be given a upon the seriousness of well-defined goals and priority at all levels. Women do not enjoy the  TBA WFWP 16th Int’l Leaders recommendations in that area. An atmosphere priority status required for the implementation Workshop of high expectation and consensus pervaded. of real change. Political will is essential because

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