As one of our newest projects, Peace Sisters provides women and girls with training so that they can lead peace processes and take a more active role in rebuilding their fractured communities. First launched in partnership with the German Consulate, the project sees participants learn new skills in critical thinking, teamwork, communications and public speaking, with the aim of empowering them to recognise their human rights and take on prominent leadership roles.
Although there are other projects on the ground that foster peacebuilding and social cohesion, we believe Peace Sisters is one of the first to train women to become mediators, peace defenders and active community leaders.
Crucially, after the training, the women and girls implement community activities of their own choosing – which involve men and boys and encourage inclusion, collaboration and open dialogue across multiple faiths, cultures and generations. These activities have to date included awareness sessions around Women, Peace and Security, journalism workshops and self-defence classes.
Peace Sisters also falls directly in line with UN Resolution 1325, which calls for “an increase in the participation of women at decision-making levels in conflict resolution and peace processes.”
CASE STUDY
Laylan participated in Peace Sisters because she wanted to know more about mediation in conflict resolution. She says: “I enjoyed this experience, especially meeting new girls and learning about their experiences and opinions. My favourite thing about the training was that the mediation was taught by women and girls.”
She adds: “The training taught me to be in control of my feelings, be more confident, and be more goal-oriented in life. I hope this project grows and reaches more women and girls in the community as it is highly useful in different aspects of life.”