WFWP UN Office Newsletter - Issue 36

700 international women leaders gathered in Mt. Kumgang, North Korea for WFWPI‘s Convention in 2007

By Carolyn Handschin Civil society initiative: preparing an fluctuations? Women’s networks have been quietly building solid bridges of trust between IN THIS ISSUE environment for peace on the Korean north and south for decades by investing in UN HQ IN NEW YORK peninsula reconciliation, peacebuilding and humanitarian projects. Is it not better to construct trust from Eleanor Roosevelt - 2 It is not only the negotiators who are getting impatient. Civil society, especially the bottom up, until there is no other option Working Group on Girls - 2 those engaged in successful cross-border but to come to a political agreement? In Memoriam: Beth Adamson - 8 initiatives, are tired of waiting for a signed M r . To m a s O j e a UN AT GENEVA paper so that they can get on with their peace Quintana, the Special Editorial: Peace Zone in DMZ - 1 building activities unhindered. Women-led Rapporteur on NGOs engaged on the Korean peninsula met the Human Rights Sexual Exploitation - 3 during the 38th and 39th Sessions of the UN Situation in the DPRK, Women and Trade Policy - 3 Human Rights Council (HRC) in Geneva agreed in his message to Religion and Politics - 9 to share their best practices and develop an one of these HRC side UN AT VIENNA alternative to waiting. Two of WFWP’s HRC events, saying, “When I note that all these Gender-based Violence - 4 side events, both titled “Korean Women, South and North: Peace, Reconciliation, Rights and initiatives…advocate Sustainable Peace Conference - 4 Development”, provided a broad platform for for the involvement CHAPTER HIGHLIGHT relevant governments, UN bodies and civil of women of all ages for overcoming the Brazil - 6 society actors to discuss possibilities for peace. challenges of division, and shifting the focus to peacebuilding and development cooperation, Thailand - 6 Should the ultimate decision affecting I feel that the destiny of the Korean people is Zambia - 7 positive change for the oppressed and sanction-weary citizens of the Democratic in good hands.” YOUNG VOICES People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) depend Maryam Farooq - 11 solely on current governmental tensions and Editorial continued on page 5 Natascha Schellen - 12

UN HQ in New York VISION Women working together to realize 70th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights one global family rooted in a culture of Remembering Eleanor Roosevelt’s Contribution to Peace sustainable peace. December 10, 2018 - FDR Presidential Library, Hyde Park

MISSION Empowering women as peacebuilders and leaders in the family to transform the community, nation and world. Through education, advocacy, partnership, reconciliation and humanitarian service, WFWPI aims to create an environment of peace and wellbeing for future generations and people of all races, cultures and religious creeds.

Carolyn Handschin - Editor-in-Chief Yeon Ah Moon - Publisher Sungmi Orr - Editor, Layout & Design Christina Lange - Distribution

This newsletter is published by the Eleanor Roosevelt holding the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1949 United Nation’s Office of the Women’s Federation for World Peace Int’l By Alisha Prasia and Alexa Ward In June 1946, in the wake of the deadliest 4 West 43rd Street This year marks the 70th anniversary of conflict the world had ever seen, the newly New York, NY 10036, USA the Universal Declaration of Human Rights created United Nations Economic and (UDHR). On December 10, 1948, the General Social Council (ECOSOC) established the Assembly of the United Nations adopted this Commission on Human Rights, which consisted NEW YORK: unoffice@wfwp.org of eighteen members. The Commission, historic document as Resolution 217, at the GENEVA: c.handschin@wfwp.org Palais de Chaillot in Paris, France. It is the a standing body of the United Nations, VIENNA: m.riehl@wfwp.org embodiment of universal values that transcends established a special Universal Declaration of cultures, nations and regions, and proclaims the Human Rights Drafting Committee, which was www.wfwp.org inalienable rights to which all human beings are chaired by Eleanor Roosevelt. The committee inherently entitled. Eleanor Roosevelt continued on page 8

Working Group on Girls A World Organization for Girls October 31, 2018 - UN HQ in New York October 1st leading to a celebration at the UN in New York City on October 11. The event, “Girls Speak Out”, filled the ECOSOC Chamber with girls from all over the world, “ Don’t tr y to be perfect, be br ave where they took their position on the main dais of the Chamber. enough to fail. Each girl, using only her first name, spoke about unique dilemmas confronting them and Nathalia, an urban girl from New York City, how they personally worked toward a solution. spoke on her passion for removing the stigma Selena, from the state of Georgia, addressed the and shame of mental illness through support need for middle school girls to feel confident and education. She emphasized that while over By Jeanne Carroll in pursuing interest in STEM education by 500 million girls are living with mental illness, The Working Group On Girls (WGG), an developing the “Girls First Junior Program”. only 2% of national budgets are allocated to NGO committee connected to UN Women, Selena said, “Don’t try to be perfect, be brave serve them. Trinity also spoke on mental health helps elevate the voices and needs of girls enough to fail.” and pleads with girls in her “Note to Self ” globally through education and visibility on Shreeasi Ja worked with UNICEF, workshops to use art as a method of coping the local, national and international stage by helping girls transition from the educational with depression. She boldly proclaimed, “I am allowing girls to advocate on their own behalf. environment to work. She created support somebody, NOT some body” and encouraged October 2018 saw a major effort by WGG where girls feel confident to use their skills, marking the 7th anniversary of the International emphasizing that the ideal world is where every Girls continued on page 8 Day of the Girl with 11 days of action from person is included.

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UN at Geneva 38th Session of the UN Human Rights Council “We Could Be Your Daughters” A New Mindset on Sexual Exploitation June 22, 2018 - UN at Geneva By Natascha Schellen good practice to counter sexual exploitation France adopted the model late in 2016, The thirty-eighth session of the Human and human trafficking” on June 22 to tackle according to Francois Gave from the Permanent Rights Council (HRC) was held from June this issue. Mission of France, and has seen some success 18 to July 6, 2018, at the United Nations at The Nordic model of dealing with prostitution with the law, although it is too early to draw Geneva. The session covered a broad range was first adopted in Europe by Sweden. Ms. conclusions. Nevertheless, Gave agreed with of human rights issues and was attended Karin Bolin, from the Permanent Mission of Bolin that prostitutes are primarily victims, not by representatives of member and observer Sweden to the UN, explained that Swedish law criminals, and the traditional policy of going states of the HRC, as well as observers punishes the buyers, not the sellers, of sex, as after the prostitutes themselves has not helped from UN entities, intergovernmental and most prostitutes don’t go into the business by to mitigate the problem. nongovernmental organizations. According choice and need help instead of prosecution in The most powerful voice at the event was to the initial report published by the HRC, a criminal court. Bolin added that prostitution a young woman from Nigeria who gave her 20 resolutions were adopted during the 38th should be eliminated entirely from society, testimony as a victim of human trafficking. session, including the following pertaining arguing that it impacted women “physically, Sonia (a pseudonym she used for the sake of to women’s rights: eliminating all forms of mentally, [and] psychologically” and that it was anonymity) explained how she was lured to discrimination against women and girls; “against human dignity.” Italy by the prospect of an honest job after accelerating efforts to eliminate violence against her parents fell into poverty, only to discover

“ women and girls; preventing and responding upon her arrival that she now had a 40,000 to violence against women and girls in digital euro debt placed on her and the “honest” job contexts; eliminating female genital mutilation. We could be your she was promised turned out to be selling her Women continue to be discriminated against and abused in many settings, especially in the daughters. We women body. It was a fate worse than death to her, as she painfully described it, and there was sex trade. The Permanent Missions of Sweden, also have rights to no escape, until one day, volunteers from the France and Ireland to the UN co-sponsored a side event entitled “The Nordic Model: A freedom. Sexual exploitation continued on page 9

39th Session of the UN Human Rights Council Side Event on Women and Trade Policy Empowering Women to Seize Economic Opportunities September 24, 2018 - UN at Geneva economic empowerment at any level sound explained that the interest in gender equality very familiar and are supported by the same UN and women’s economic development in trade conventions,” explained Carolyn Handschin, is a relatively new development, but rapidly Director of the UN Offices of WFWPI, in being taken more seriously. She stated that opening the debate. legal instruments are changing and links The event was designed based on a concept between women’s empowerment and its impact note prepared by the organizers together with on nations’ financial health are clearer. The the Women’s Economic and Social Think WTO “Declaration on Trade and Women’s Tank (WESTT) based in Brussels. Trade Empowerment” in Buenos Aires has focused provides tremendous potential to sustain life, attention. Sharing the results of research and and develop prosperous, flourishing societies. best practices among regions has been very By Jimin Millet and Carolyn Handschin Unethical trade, however, can have negative helpful, but more can be done. This is why “80% of policy makers are men. Gender effects on human rights. Consumers, workers, UNCTAD has launched a Trade and Gender balance should be a natural thing, but, to come and marginalized communities like women and Toolbox as a methodology to better assess to that understanding, we need to have a more those living in poverty, are disproportionately what the impact on women in trade could be equal representation,” said Mrs. Hulya Kurt, affected by unethical trade policies. Worse, it and how to redress the imbalance. president of the Organization of Women in is the most marginalized communities that are Hyla Kurt from the Organization of Women Trade (OWIT). Perspectives for Trade Policy often excluded from policy-negotiations. There in International Trade (OWIT) described the & Women’s Economic Empowerment was has been a shift in perceptions by experts, who disadvantages women have, including lack of the title of the HRC side event organized by now recognize the importance of gender-based access to credits, lack of knowledge, skills WFWPI and the Graduate Women’s Institute economic analyses and the importance of and, especially, confidence. She proposed that (GWI) during the 39th Session of the Human ensuring liberalisation policies do not negatively platforms be created for better information Rights Council (HRC) on September 24, impact those with less of a voice. sharing, skills training, trade-specific knowledge, 2018. “Economic development drives growth Having the opportunity to sit together opportunities for collaboration and mentoring. and alleviates poverty. While negotiations and discuss issues with the Chief of She summarized by saying that benefits to of global trade policy have not been the UNCTAD’s Department on “Trade, Gender society would be much greater than expected if defining profile of many women NGOs, the and Development” was very insightful and there was more commitment and certification obstructions and remedy to advancing women’s encouraging for all present. Simonetta Arrilli Trade policy continued on page 9

UN at Vienna CCPCJ Side Event on Prevention Video Game Helps Victims of Gender-based Violence The Crime Commission side event, also May 17, 2018 - UN at Vienna linked to the “Education for Justice (E4J)” Doha Declaration: Promoting a Culture of initiative, was planned to bring together Lawfulness, the UN Office on Drugs and stakeholders to discuss how education can Crime (UNODC), with the government make a difference in schools and society. HE of Mexico, sponsored a side event during Ambassador Alicia Buenrostro Massieu of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Mexico chaired the session, introducing the Criminal Justice (CCPCJ) on May 17, 2018. theme and her hopes for the new project. The event, “Education as a powerful tool to Speakers representing the sponsors included prevent violence against children”, included the the Deputy Attorney General of Mexico, official launch of their joint initiative: a video Sara Irene Herrias, Antonia Luigi Mazzitelli, game aimed at helping young girls to respond Representative of the UNODC Liaison and to psychological, physical and sexual violence. UNODC Department Director and Project Coordinator Partnership Office in Mexico and Daniela “Chuka” was designed by the renowned with WFWPI UN Team Baptista, its National Program Officer. A Mexico City-based, women-led developer By Carolyn Handschin detailed description of the project, its launching firm Gagamel Estudio. A captivating game, Within the larger framework of the Global in Mexico and the actual psychological patterns it helps young girls (7-12) recognize and deal Programme for the Implementation of the with aggressions. Video game continued on page 10

WFWPI Conference Sustainable Peace through Reconciliation and Education October 3, 2018 - Vienna International Centre, UN at Vienna who warmly welcomed H. Excellency Solano Early warning mechanisms”, exploring how Ortiz, Permanent Mission of Costa Rica, who to prevent ethnic cleansing by recognizing stated in his address, “Our country is being early signs and prevent further developments. led by the capacity and wisdom of women. In She brought up the idea that we need a new times of conflict our women are more focused approach to security; ensuring citizens’ safety on finding solutions than fighting.” from hunger and other daily disruptions. H. Excellency Ms. Lourdes Gisela Antonia

(left to right) H. Excellency Ms. Lourdes Gisela Anto- Victoria-Kruse, Permanent Mission of the Dominican Republic, said “world peace can only be achieved with the inclusion of women and that their role in reconciliation is vital.” “ Wor ld peace can onl y be achieved Session I was chaired by M. Mamadou Kone, with the inclusion of nia Victoria-Kruse, H. Excellency Solano Ortiz M.E.S, Cons. Education, Health and Human By Renate Amesbauer, Elisabeth Cook, Gabriella Zoerer The conference was opened by Mrs. Carolyn Rights. The first speaker was Ms. Petra Bayr, MA MLS, Member of Parliament in Austria, women. Handschin, Director, WFWPI UN Offices, who spoke on “The Roots of Genocide – Sustainable peace continued on page 10

WFWPI Side Event during the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice Education Works: Global Civic Education is Crime Prevention May 15, 2018 - UN at Vienna the Academic Council on the UN System emphasizes that education for children and (ACUNS), the Universal Peace Federation and youth is fundamental in promoting a culture others, opened the Session with these words: that supports the rule of law, crime prevention “Peace does not come by itself; peaceful and criminal justice. behaviour is something to be learned and to In support of this, the Education for Justice strive for day by day…Civic education means (E4J) initiative has been developed to create and to strengthen that feeling inside oneself that I disseminate education materials in UNODC am part of the whole, I am not only effected mandated areas of crime prevention and by my surroundings, but I can have an effect criminal justice across primary, secondary and too and should also include learning skills for tertiary education. Online tools and academic conflict resolution.” resources will be made available free of charge, By Renate Amesbauer Adopted at the conclusion of the 13th UN while workshops, conferences and symposia H.E. Ms. Pilar Saborio de Rocafort, Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal will be organized for teachers and academics to Ambassador of the Permanent Mission of Justice (CCPCJ), the Doha Declaration learn and exchange ideas and research. Costa Rica to the UN at Vienna and co-sponsor highlights the importance of education as of the CCPCJ side event organized by WFWPI, a tool to prevent crime and corruption. It Education works continued on page 10

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Editorial continued… in 2009 by UPF, WFWPI and UNIDIR Editorial continued from page 1 (Disarmament Research) at the UN at Geneva. WFWPI as a longtime member, and Speakers included the then Deputy Secretary- sometimes co-chair, of the North South General of the Conference on Disarmament Reconciliation Commission and initiator of (CD) and the Deputy Director of UNIDIR. humanitarian projects for the DPRK over The proposal was further expanded to two decades, took the initiative to organize include establishing a major UN Office these HRC meetings and briefings. Joining complex within the DMZ. This future 5th together with the Women’s United Nations UN Office was foreseen as a hub for peace Research Network (WUNRN), we launched research, preventive diplomacy, disarmament, a proposal to strengthen confidence-building HRC side event partners, speakers, staff interreligious cooperation, and, potentially, local solutions involving women, peace and an office for advancing the role of women development on the Korean peninsula. The promoted in the human rights system in in those fields. Currently, there are four main premise being that the role of civil society is general, it seems to not get as much attention UN Offices in the world: New York, Geneva, to anticipate the needs of governments and in Korea. Nairobi and Vienna. Despite two thirds of prepare the base so that they can make wise The Director of the “Inclusive Peace and the world’s population, over one third of the and sustainable decisions and later support Transition Initiative” in Geneva, a research implementation. Peace must be planned and body at the Graduate Institute of International realized with those who care about it most. and Development Studies, was invited to supply analysis on the side event theme. She explained, “Making women count is not just counting them. Inclusion doesn’t just happen in negotiation. There are different phases and levels of inclusion, where women’s thoughts are essential. Mass action and change includes workshops and grass roots activities, and involving women’s groups and their implementation of peace efforts.” Lois Herman, President WUNRN, event co-sponsor

“ world GDP and the birthplace of five major religions being in Asia, there is no main UN Assistant to the Special Rapporteur, WFWPI UN Office Director, Christine Ahn on screen (Director of Making women office located there. In 2014, in co-sponsorship with the Women Across the DMZ) count is not just governor’s office of Gyonggi province in South Peace Zone in the DMZ for women to prepare the peace process counting them. Korea near the DMZ, the Segye Times, UPF, WFWPI and other NGOs organized a second In the spirit of UN Security Council 5th UN Office in Asia conference at the UN in Geneva. Blueprints Resolution 1325 on “Women, Peace and In a broader context, the final speaker, had been drawn up for a transformation of Security”, a civil society proposal was launched Heiner Handschin, Director of the UN Office the DMZ and presented to the international toward governments of North and South in Geneva of the Universal Peace Federation, audience from Gyonggi Province. The ideas Korea to create a Peace Zone in the DMZ. reported about an initiative launched by the for a UN Peace Complex, Village and Peace A letter was sent to the Office of the Foreign organization’s founder, Dr. Sun Myung Moon, Park included a proposal as to how it could all Minister in the Republic of Korea as well in 2000 to create Peace Zones in contested be financed using gravel from the Imjin river. as to the Ambassador of the DPRK at the conflict-ridden lands. “These peace zones A government representative from the Asian United Nations, requesting a meeting place or would be havens that exist for the sake of region hearing this proposal for the first time refuge where women could come together to peace, prosperity, and reconciliation,” said Mr. commented, “This would be a dream come build and implement projects for peace and true.” Another said, “You are not even from our development. This would be a sanctuary for region. Why are you advocating this for us?” local needs, knowledge and resources, which In conclusion, institutional changes involving might eventually include international expertise. governments are usually not simple or quick. Their actions would help build political and Yet most of what is worth fighting for isn’t. public will for social change and sustainable But when civil society is informed, can unite peace on the Korean Peninsula. and demonstrate a capacity to put aside During the side event, it was clear just how narrow interests (a difficulty that states have), much positive news there was to share. Speakers their power can and has nudged governments described the marches and international toward a higher good. The development goals networking of “Women Across the DMZ”. are a case in point. In particular, women can The dozens of meetings with women in the HRC38 briefing with governments, UN and NGOs translate their concerns and knowledge as North, youth engagement and humanitarian mothers, daughters and sisters to broader social projects (tree planting, emergency food,school Handschin. “They would be free of racial and reform. They are often able to move more supplies) of WFWPI were highlighted in a sexual discrimination, human rights violations, efficiently, inclusively and compassionately video. One representative of the government and war…[and] ecological and environmental than governments. Advocacy campaigns of the Republic of Korea (ROK) attending havens for the entire natural world.” A proposal from NGOs for these projects will continue, the event was not aware of these initiatives. was presented for such a project at the DMZ seeking partnership with member states in He explained that while women’s role is being during a conference on disarmament organized implementing them.

Chapter Highlight

WFWPI Co-Founder, Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, is putting emphasis on nations with a potential for appreciable development. Regional and global support of these strategic chapters is essential for their continued growth. Over the next few editions, our newsletter will highlight these thirteen nations, hoping that from amongst our readers, there may be ideas for networking and resource-sharing with the national WFWP chapter. Contact details are listed and they would surely be delighted to hear from you.

Brazil WFWP Brazil has focused on educating the Education seminars in schools on AIDS, a Municipal Feast and entered it into the city’s population about female leadership to raise STDs, early pregnancy prevention, as well as official commemorative agenda. the standard of character from the individual, the education of universally shared values ​​and family, and society. citizenship have been staples of their work. For more information, please contact Ezzat During its 26-year journey, WFWP Brazil has Their “Festival of Nations” unites the Ferraboli at ampmbrasil@gmail.com. carried out several sisterhood ceremonies and diverse ethnic groups of Brazil in a day of social activities, including blood and food drives cultural exchange, music and food. Last year, and donations of clothing and toys. the City of Sao Paulo even declared the festival

10th Festival of Nations in Sao Paulo WFWPI President, Yeon Ah Moon, speaking at Latin Bridge of Peace ceremony America GWPN Assembly in 2018

Food drive Blood drive Education on universally shared values

Thailand WFWP Thailand is bringing substantial WFWP Thailand’s interest in youth includes International Leadership Workshop, Women results in eliminating poverty by helping scholarships for needy children through their Leaders Convention and International Seminar. families create sustainable income. Their “Foster Parent” program, character education Their aim is to support women as the key “Livestock for Economic Development and “Color My Heart With Peace,” an annual component to creating peace. Project” provides training on how to raise milk painting project for elementary school children goats for consumption and trade and buffalo that cultivates emotional intelligence and allows For more infor mation, please contact for farming, while their broader vocational them to express their creativity. Kamolthip Phattaratangmontri at training gives practical skills training to Their high-level events include the Mother’s disadvantaged women. thaiwfwpa@gmail.com. Heart Network, Bridge of Peace ceremonies,

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Brazil, Thailand, Zambia

Livestock for Economic Development Project Agriproduct Processing Project Foster Parent Project

Color My Heart With Peace art competition Women Leaders for Bridge Nations of Peace at Sisterhood Ceremony between Japan and Thailand UN Bangkok

Zambia Since its launch in April 1992, WFWP free sewing lessons provide vulnerable women on making positive choices in life and assists Zambia’s activities have been complimenting with malnourished children a skill to generate them with clothing and school supplies. The the efforts of the Zambian government to income and make visits to families’ homes to organization gives scholarships to high school provide a decent living standard for its citizens, assess their living conditions and help them students so they can complete their education mostly in the areas of economic empowerment with household requisites. and runs campaigns in schools on how to and nutrition. While a solid financial foundation and safe prevent HIV/AIDS. WFWP Zambia donates High Energy Protein home environment are important, WFWP Supplement (HEPS), eggs and other food to Zambia is also concerned with the character For more information, please contact Sheila undernourished children and disadvantaged and scholastic education of the next generation. Mwenda at sheila.mwenda60@gmail.com. persons, while educating the population on the Their Foster Parent program pairs children and importance of a nutritious, balanced diet. Their youth with a “parent” who gives them guidance

Giving food to malnourished children at local clinics Sewing class for vulnerable women and girls March for International Women’s Day

Donation to Barlastone School children Donation of shoes to David Kaunda Technical School Interfaith Women’s Seminar

New York continued… Eleanor Roosevelt continued from page 2 with a large capacity for civil society,” and the same fate, only to be tossed aside, maimed “an institution that is close to the ground.” or killed once the dowry is paid in full. With met in two sessions over the course of two She referred to the UDHR as an “aspirational the support of her parents, Shreeya began years. document that inspired civic conversation educating parents and girls with her program The committee finished its work in May of about human rights as a lived experience.” She “Give education to the girls, not a dowry,” 1948. The draft was further discussed by the reflected that women’s rights have become an which convinced many parents to send their Commission on Human Rights, ECOSOC, and important part of human rights over the past girls to school. the Third Committee of the General Assembly. seventy years, and that the world is a “very These are just a few of the girls and their Before being adopted, UN Member States different place because of this document.” stories that kept the audience spellbound for made numerous amendments. Dr. Rebecca Adami spoke of her new book, three hours in the halls of the UN. Other In 1948, before the General Assembly, Women and the Universal Declaration of Human topics addressed were: climate change; human Eleanor Roosevelt said, “We stand today at the Rights, which explores the non-Western women trafficking; natural disasters; poverty; and lack threshold of a great event both in the life of the delegates who took part in the drafting of the of supplies for menstruation. In closing, a girl United Nations and in the life of mankind. This UN Charter and the UDHR from 1945 to 1948. from Cameroon, Blessing, said, “Girls have it declaration may well become the international She is a Research Associate at the Centre for so hard because the world is scared of them. Magna Carta for all men everywhere.” International Studies and Diplomacy, School We are all humans and love will set us free.” In her own words, Eleanor Roosevelt of Oriental and African Studies, University

“ explained the essence of human rights, “Where, of London. after all, do universal human rights begin? In A workshop was held that guided the small places, close to home – so close and so participants to determine actionable items in Girls have it so hard small that they cannot be seen on any maps of the world. […] Unless these rights have meaning four areas based on FDR’s Four Freedoms: Freedom of Expression; Freedom from Fear; because the world is there, they have little meaning anywhere. Freedom from Want; and Freedom of Worship. scared of them. Without concerted citizen action to uphold The keynote address, on the topic of “UN them close to home, we shall look in vain for Efforts Internationally to Improve Human WGG was established in support of girls progress in the larger world.” Rights in Crisis Zones,” was given by Ben worldwide in conjunction with efforts being On Friday, December 10, 2018 a conference Majekodunmi, UN Senior Human Rights made after the ratification of the Beijing was held at the Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR) and Political Affairs Officer, in the Executive Declaration and Platform for Action for Presidential Library in Hyde Park, New York, Office of the UN Secretary General. He is the empowerment of all women and girls. with the theme, “Universal Declaration of responsible for the day-to-day implementation Originally a project of UNICEF, WGG then Human Rights: 70th Anniversary.” The of the Human Rights Up Front Initiative. He emerged as an NGO committee within UN conference was opened by Paul Sparrow, spoke about the status of human rights at the Women. Director of the FDR Presidential Library and UN from four perspectives: personal; political; Jeanne Carroll has served as a senior UN Museum. UN operations; and looking ahead. Representative for WFWP International for more than On the “personal level,” he spoke of the twelve years. She currently serves on the WGG Steering

“ Where after all do universal human rights courage of witnesses who are willing to take significant risk in speaking up about human rights violations, stating that “the strongest expressions of human rights that I Committee and holds the position of Corresponding Secretary. Jeanne has also participated in a wide range of committees for the annual session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women. have experienced are when rights have been begin? In small places, violated.” close to home – so On the topic of “looking ahead,” he referred to three major challenges: migration; the In Memoriam close and so small that environment; and peace and security. He simply stated that the human rights framework is in Beth Adamson they cannot be seen place, however, the politics aren’t working. on any maps of the Before the conference closed, David Roosevelt thanked Ben for the very difficult world. work he was engaged in and encouraged all with “Please don’t give up.” Manuela Roosevelt, Editorial Director of Alexa Fish Ward served as Executive Director Callaway Arts and Entertainment, Chair of of the Eleanor Roosevelt Center at Val-Kill in the Eleanor Roosevelt Val-Kill Partnership Hyde Park, New York from 1989 to 1992. She is and wife of David Roosevelt, grandson of currently an International Vice President for WFWP FDR and Eleanor, referred to the UDHR as International and Deputy Director of the UN Office. a “beacon of light.” She went on to say, “It is remarkable that Eleanor was able to bring the On August 11, 2018, the Working Group nations together, remarkable that she had this Girls continued frompage 2 on Girls lost a beloved champion, Beth vision and that she could do it.” On Eleanor as those present to “value our sacred sisterhood Adamson. Her life’s mission was to fight for a person she stated, “She wasn’t about Eleanor and own your own truth.” the betterment of all girls worldwide. Beth Roosevelt. She was about serving the other.” 14-year-old Shreeya traveled from a remote invested her love, support, and mentorship in During a panel discussion, Dr. Ellen Chesler, village in rural Nepal. At the age of 11, she saw girl activists. She was one of the bastions of Senior Fellow at the Roosevelt Institute, her friend married to a much older man for her the Working Group on Girls and her legacy will referred to the UN as a “brilliant institution dowry and shared how many young girls face continue in honor of her life.

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Geneva continued… Sexual exploitation continued from page 3 Trade policy continued from page 3 could gaps be pinpointed and guidelines and recommendations made toward new policies. organization Associazione Comunita Papa from global trade institutions towards women The final speaker and co-organizer was Madi Giovanni XXIII rescued her. Free from her in the financial sector. Sharma of the Women’s Economic and Social exploiters, the message that Sonia wanted to Women in Economic Development (WIED+) Think Tank (WESTT). A very strong speaker, pass on to the clients of prostitutes was this: is a coalition that has been promoting gender she laid out several clear points. 1)Women “We are not there by choice. Every time you equality in trade policy for 20 years, explained need to be involved in policy development. buy us, it can be considered rape. We could be its representative, Gea Meijers. The EU has 2)When you have profit, you have choices. 3) your daughters. We women also have rights to a strong impact assessment policy and is Gender equality is not about women, but is a freedom.” seriously involved. She requested more data to social and economic imperative. 4)Policies are Millions of women like Sonia need to be show the engagement that the WTO has for supposed to be preventive and protective but protected and supported so that they can women. It seems that policies have not changed that is often not the case. 5)Solutions starts by escape their traffickers and re-establish their much in two decades and called for a global implementation. 6)Women must act together lives with dignity. reassessment that would evaluate country because it is our right and responsibility to by country, context by context. Only then do so.

39th Session of the UN Human Rights Council The Universal Declaration of Human Rights at 70: Religion and Politics September 20, 2018 - UN at Geneva 72 million people are recognized as refugees, religion should never be used to divide or justify vulnerable people living in insecurity, streaming violence. It is hopeful to engage across religious across borders due to war, conflicts, persecution borders sharing a theme of a “common and injustices.” He continued that responsibility humanity under God.” Language has been lies not only with government to hold power an obstacle between the political sphere and accountable, but civil society, including religious religious or other civil society communities, but leaders and NGOs. His closing quote was by that is solvable when there is a will to do so. Douglas MacArthur, who said, “I have known Dr. Elmar Kuhn, Dean of World Religions at war as few men now living know it. Its very the European Academy of Sciences and Arts, destructiveness on both friend and foe has spoke about the UDHR as an enlightenment rendered it useless as a means of settling and hope for humankind, while highlighting By Carolyn Handschin international disputes.” three concerns: be grateful for the work of 70 years after the adoption of the Universal Prof. Peter Kirchschläger, Professor of predecessors; beware of the current violations Declaration of Human Rights in Paris, it has Theological Ethics at the University of Lucerne, in spite of the document (with many involving become the most translated document in the Switzerland, clearly described how religion can Christians); and reflect seriously on how world. Though not a legally binding document, contribute to the implementation of human to achieve higher implementation rates. He it stands as a moral framework and standard rights: translating the rights into language and called for a “renewal” of the UDHR with to ensure the basic human dignity and worth imagery that is adaptable and contribute to new instruments to connect more to the of all humanity. Its vision and language have human rights awareness. By justifying human religious and cultural roots of human rights become a benchmark for the establishment of rights with a religious perspective, it should and integration of interreligious dialogue and binding human rights conventions around the also enhance their validity as well as spiritually as a preventive measure against intolerance and world. WFWPI, together with the Universal codify humanity’s responsibility to implement. hate crimes. He made frequent references to Peace Federation (UPF) and other partners, The 1948 document was an implicit invitation the situation in Europe and of the important commemorated this anniversary by holding a to religions, worldviews and cultures, and still responsibility of Christianity. He announced panel at the 39th Session of the Human Rights needs further application and engagement. the creation of the Interreligious Association Council on September 20, 2018, looking at for Peace and Development (IAPD) to facilitate

“ the role of religion and politics together to interreligious cooperation in substance. promote and protect human rights. The final presentation was given by Mrs. In his opening remarks, Mr. Heiner Handschin, I firmly believe in the Carolyn Handschin, Director, WFWPI UN President of UPF in Switzerland, expressed the need for religious and political leaders power of faith leaders Office, who referred to the words of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, “I firmly to listen to one another. As a governmental organization, the UN had not fully endorsed to shape our world for believe in the power of faith leaders to shape religions as partners until September 11, good. our world for good.” Promoting the idea of a high-level Interreligious Council within the 2001, when it became evident that religions UN system, she described some of the historic ignored could become a serious threat. Mr. - Antonio Guterres prods or correctives toward a more inclusive Handschin said that now is the time to discover involvement of religious voices in the UN. A that religions and religious leaders can be a Dr. Astrid Stuckelberger, Professor Faculty Model UN “Interreligious Council Program” tremendous asset to peace and stability. of Medicine, UNIGE,spoke of the recent created in 2008 in Geneva by the governments Four speakers brought in very diverse but changes in global working alliances. An expert of Indonesia, Philippines and UPF and complementary elements to the debate, on aging at the UN, she is also very active in WFWPI and others has been demonstrating beginning with Mr. Iqbal Alimohamed, Nobel the Geneva Spiritual Appeal, which was created how (young) minds, set within a religious Laureate and longstanding functionary for UN in 1999 by religious and political leaders in the framework, can discover new and creative High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) wake of the crash of the SR111 airliner over solutions for the UN’s global agenda. around the world. He said, “Currently over Halifax. The founding document declared that

Vienna continued… Video game continued from page 4 that in order for young poeple to positively Conflicts and Promote Peace”. He mainly influence the world, we need to ensure safe referred to character education starting in that are affected through game use were spaces and proper education, especially for the family, pointed out that the media has a provided. The audience seemed to hope for a young women and girls. He noted that while big responsibility in reporting more uplifting live demonstration. we will always have conflicts, we must learn to news, that social injustice and exclusion lead to Carolyn Handschin, Director of the UN resolve them without violence. Young people conflict and that a political agenda is needed. Offices for WFWPI, was invited to bring in have to claim their place at the table because Dr. Maria Riehl spoke on “Forgive, Love the voice of civil society engaged in early they are the potential foot soldiers of war. and Unite”, sharing how she had to remain childhood education programs. She addressed The UN has been a leader in supporting in Vienna as a refugee and couldn’t return the theme “Educating Children for Resiliency youth. In 2013, they nominated the first to Slovakia after the Walshaw Pact troops and Prevention of Conflict”, concurring with Youth Envoy, and“Youth 2030”, an umbrella marched on the capital of Prague. She stated UNODC that the current burden on costly organization for youth activities across the UN, that reconciliation starts with understanding correctional social justice systems can be was founded this past September. that all of us are human beings. shifted if preventive education already begins Ms. Mahda Tewolde and Ms. Yohanna P. Dr. Riehl then explained the “Bridge of at a young age. Teklu, Eritrean Women’s Association UK. Peace Ceremony”, a rite that has been used by Mrs. Handschin praised the work of the both shared on the topic of “Engaging and WFWP many times since 1995 (50 years after UNODC to strengthen prevention through Empowering Women for Sustainable Peace”. the end of WWII) for the healing of inner programs and institutions that promote a Ms. Tewolde took the audience through wounds and resentment caused by conflict healthy lifestyle, such as this video game the socail changes that took place for and and war. Women of former enemy countries and their “Strong Families” program in because of Eritrean women during and after walk over a symbolic bridge from both ends South America. She explained how WFWP the liberation of their country. towards each other, asking for and offering educational programs and curricula often Also, the National Union of Eritrean forgiveness and reconciliation by bowing and promote family as an institution critical to Women worked in towns and villages to embracing each other. peace culture and “conscience” as an important educate the people, especially the women and Once we can see each other as brothers and and underestimated tool to instill values and children. Forced marriage and child marriage sisters, differences will not matter so much identify “goodness” as a basis for value to the were banned. any more. larger whole. Ms. Yohanna P. Teklu continued that in the As explained by the Special Representative of course of the liberation, women could own the UN Secretary-General on Violence Against land, more women were in Parliament, local Education works continued from page 4 Children (SRSG-VAC), Marta Santos Pais, courts were instituted with at least one female “We see less recidivism where there is a focus Dir. Izabella Gorczyca explained that judge, and female genital mutilation (FGM) was while we are developing intellectually and on prevention rather than imprisonment… made illegal, among many other initatives for Children’s exposure to violence often leads technologically, adults and children alike are and with the help of women. Because of these far behind in their emotional intelligence; to a dramatic vicious circle. Child victims of rapid developments, Eritrea received an award sexual abuse are up to five times as likely to something she is working hard to remedy. from UNICEF. Ms. Teklu mentioned that if Ms. Zita Kiedler, a middle school teacher, suffer post-traumatic stress disorder, to be a society doesn’t respect the rights and the dependent on drugs and alcohol, and also to shared her experience teaching about “Schulfach equality of women, it is not a liberated society. Glück”(“Happiness”), a subject that promotes commit criminal offences later in life. Child Mrs. Etenesh Hadis, Founder and Head of neglect increases the likelihood of arrest as life skills and happiness by helping adolescents the African Womens’ organization in Austria create an active and self-reliant lifestyle through a juvenile and emotional maltreatment…leads spoke next on “The Role of the Peace Process to an increased risk of involvement in violent key experiences that trigger personal growth in the Horn of Africa to bring Stability and and self-awareness. crime.” Economic Development”. Cultivated in early childhood and youth, Dr. Maria Riehl reminded the audience that She shared how Eritrea and Ethiopia we are created beings, coming from two origins: the development of conscience or a sense of were at war for two decades and how the “dignity for all” should be incubated in the our parents. She also commented on that fact leaders of both countries met and started the that contrary to animals who need to be able relationship between parents and children. By reconciliation process two months ago. She responding to a parent’s nurturing, forgiveness to move by themselves right after birth, every also stated the importance of quality leaders. human being is born completely dependent on and discipline, a child learns the principle of If they use their power to suppress their people “giving back”. It shapes a paradigm for future a caregiver and family. suffer, but if they use their position righteously, She also portrayed from her perspective as social relations, which translates to an innate than they are a good example for their people. sense of regard and concern for others: a grandmother just how much of an impact the “Golden Rule”. Resilience is a natural Session 2 “The Role of Education in Conflict the everyday life in the family has on a child, byproduct because it is easier to revert to a Resolution and Reconciliation” opened with Mr. especially with siblings growing up together. healthy lifestyle if already experienced and, Fred Ohenhen, born in Nigeria , introducing Dr. Riehl referred to the “four realms of even more, if children are made to understand “Interkulturelle Bildungsarbeit in Kindergärten love” that can be learned in a family. The first is what the building blocks of “community” are. und Schulen” (IKU) ISOP, Innovative Social the love of a helpless child towards their parent, Projects, in Graz, an organisation that is then the shared love among siblings, which countering prejudice and racism at an early grows to the exclusive love between committed age by bringing together children of different partners, which may eventually develop into the ethnic and cultural backgrounds through love of parents toward their children. Sustainable peace continued from page 4 an exchange program. ISOP received the The second speaker, Mr. Billy Batware, Intercultural Achievement Award 2018 by the After the official program ended, discussion spoke on “Young People as Agents of Ministry of External Affairs. among participants continued for almost two Reconciliation”. A native of Rwanda, he hours outside the conference room over coffee. Mr. Mamadou Kone, bor n in Mali, experienced the genocide firsthand. He said spoke about “Education, a Path to Prevent

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Young Voices WFWP is raising the next generation of peace leaders through our internships. Students have the opportunity to put their unique talents and interests to use in a tailored experience, be it in the field or working with high-level contacts.The following are some reflections on their time with WFWP.

Maryam Farooq access to. Things like this not only increase your knowledge about the world but allows Internship pushed me out of my comfort zone you to connect with and learn from people of all backgrounds. By attending events at the UN Office in New York UN, such as the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Sakena Yacoobi, the founder of an NGO that provides many services in Afghanistan. This relationship has not only developed into a friendship but also an opportunity to learn from an expert who is actively involved in making a change in the world. One of the experiences I will always remember is getting the opportunity to connect with the Permanent Missions of the countries I am from: Pakistan and Afghanistan. Having the opportunity to reach out, set meetings, and speak with them individually as a representative of WFWPI was such an incredible experience. It pushed me outside of my comfort zone by giving me the chance to do something I would have never had the platform to do before. Another experience that pushed me outside of my comfort zone was moderating a side event we organized for CSW. It was nerve-racking at first but showed me that all it takes is trying Maryam acting as emcee for WFWPI’s CSW62 Side Event something new to realize you can conquer any fear. When I first began my internship at I was so surprised to hear this because many the Women’s Federation for World Peace International (WFWPI) UN Office in New York, I was not sure what to expect from the experience. I had done my research and was internships aren’t primarily concerned with the desires of the intern but instead on the needs of the organization. The very beginning of my internship started off with me sharing my “ All it takes is trying something new familiar with the purpose of the NGO, but I interests, which allowed my internship to be was not sure what kind of activities I would tailored specifically to me. to r ealize you can be able to assist with. I had just assumed that I would not be playing a major role in the team, What I am grateful about is the fact that my internship allowed me to learn from so many conquer any fear. since I was only a student with a limited skill different people and institutions. Not only was set, but I was quickly proven wrong. I was so WFWPI and their diverse group of members a My experience with WFWPI thus far is pleased to meet Mrs. Ward, Deputy Director, wonderful place to learn, but their relationship quite difficult for me to summarize in such her staff members, and the other student to the UN only added to my experience. With few words. From co-chairing a parallel event interns who all welcomed me and allowed me a grounds pass to the UN, I was given the for CSW62 to meeting with the representatives to contribute to their team. opportunity to attend certain events in and from the Permanent Missions of Afghanistan around the UN that many people may not have and Pakistan, I have had many incredible

“ experiences. I am so fortunate to have had the opportunity An opportunity for to work so closely with WFWPI, Mrs. Ward, me to grow and learn. and the other members of the team. These experiences have played an important role in my life and helped solidify my passion for In one of my very first meetings with Mrs. education, which is why I am currently applying Ward, she shared how this experience is not to master’s programs to study International just an opportunity for their staff to have Education Development. another intern, but also an opportunity for me I hope to gain the skills necessary to conduct to grow and learn. She made it very clear that I quality research to help guide education reform can share what my future goals are so that my Maryam and Dr. Sakena Yacoobi, Founder and CEO and policy in underdeveloped countries. tasks can help me explore my interests further. of the Afghan Institute of Learning

Young Voices continued…

WFWP is raising the next generation of peace leaders through our internships. Students have the opportunity to put their unique talents and interests to use in a tailored experience, be it in the field or working with high-level contacts.The following are some reflections on their time with WFWP.

Natascha Schellen Bringing Women’s Federation into the Social Era UN Office in Geneva for creating a meeting place for women from the north and south to work together for peace. The event was well attended, with more than 40 people present, but this proposal needs to be disseminated on a higher level. Networking is an important part of WFWP’s work with the UN, as is media and public relations. When I was asked to be the media liason during my time as an intern, I discovered that WFWP in Geneva had no social media identity of its own. To get things going, I set up a Twitter account with the name of “WFWP UN Office Geneva” and started tweeting daily about the Human Rights Council sessions I attended and, of course, about our own side event. Although I had very limited experience, to my surprise, I managed to get a couple of posts into the top trending tweets of the week on the topic of the HRC. My hope is that this social media activity will be continued by future interns so that it can help spread the news of WFWP’s involvement Natascha (left) acted as WFWP’s media liaison during the 38th Session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva at the UN and to aid with networking with other organizations (a number of NGO Thanks to Carolyn Handschin and the Special rapporteurs write their reports and business cards I received had their social media support of the Wonmo Pyeongae Scholarship resolutions are passed, but these bureaucratic accounts included). Ideally, there should be Foundation, I had the opportunity to participate moves are not always taken into account by the someone to manage social media in Geneva in the 38th session of the Human Rights addressed nations. fulltime, but in the meantime, it is a project the Council in Geneva as a WFWP intern from Clearly, different tactics need to be employed interns can continue. June 18 to 29, 2018. to reach these countries’ leaders. Embracing In his final reflections as UN High them with a mother’s heart and teaching them Commissioner for Human Rights, Zeid Ra’ad the value of true love in practice is what WFWP Al Hussein spoke at the opening session of the HRC, saying “I am convinced that the human can bring to the table. D O N AT E “ rights ideal has been the most constructive movement of ideas in our era – and among to make a difference the most successful.” He added that since the I managed to get a dawn of the UN, many countries were able to achieve “sustained peace” and conflicts ended couple of posts into the through respect and law. top trending tweets of I would argue that a focus on human rights and respect for the law is not enough to bring the week on…the HRC. peace to the world and put an end to all conflict, and this is where the ideals of WFWP are I think that WFWP needs to make its voice much needed. heard through bold written and oral statements We must bring our revolutionary ideas to the prepared ahead of the sessions and organize High Commissioner and before the assembly more side events promoting our ideals. of government and NGO representatives As an intern, I supported a WFWP side GIVE TODAY around the world, who all gather at this Human event on June 20 on the topic of peace on the w w w. w f w p . o r g Rights Council in Geneva year after year. Korean Peninsula, where a proposal was made

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