Remarks by Volker Türk at the 4th International Conference on “Action with Women and Peace”

Distinguished Delegates and Participants,

During my visit to Sudan last month, I met with a brave woman from a grassroots civil society organisation who conveyed in graphic terms the impact of the conflict on women and girls.

She spoke about instances of assault and sexual and gender-based violence, trafficking, discrimination, women’s profound care responsibilities for children and family members during conflict, and a lack of access to essential services.

Despite this, very few women are included in the discussions on peace and the future of their country.
This is not a challenge unique to Sudan.

Around the world, women are being impacted by conflict while at the same time being excluded from formal peace processes. For example, between 1992 and 2019, only 6 percent of mediators and 13 percent of negotiators were women¹ .

Women peacebuilders and women human rights defenders play critical roles before, during, and after conflicts.

As community organisers, they have important insights into subtle shifts that may indicate an escalation of violence in communities. When the voices of women are silenced or ignored, early warning signs of conflict may be overlooked.

During a conflict, women human rights defenders document attacks and violations. They assist victims and their families and communities, identify the needs of women and marginalised groups, and much more. They are on the front lines of the humanitarian response.

Following a conflict, women human rights defenders can help shape institutions that are responsive to the needs of the population.  

The role of women in these processes is obvious. However, political rhetoric on women and girls in statements, resolutions, and policy documents rarely translates into action.

We must act now to ensure the equal and meaningful participation of women at all levels of decision-making in peacebuilding processes.

And more broadly, we must recognise that ensuring women's human rights and gender equality are a cornerstone of sustainable and genuine peace.

In situations of conflict, as in peacetime, securing women's rights means securing human rights for all.