“From Peace in the Home to Peace in the World: Let’s Challenge Militarism and End Violence Against Women!”

WILPF sections and members around the world today – November 25 – engage in collective activism demonstrating our roots as one global women’s peace movement by our united participation in the global 16 Days Campaign.

The 2011 theme of the 16 day campaign “From Peace in the Home to Peace in the World: Let’s Challenge Militarism and End Violence Against Women!” directly links to WILPF’s vision and work. For 96 years now, WILPF has led the way as part of a global movement, towards full disarmament, gender equality, racial and economic justice, and an end to all forms of violence.

“We should never forget to do activism. It is what works. It’s absolutely central to WILPF”, says Madeleine Rees (WILPF Secretary General) to a large gathering of WILPF-ers.

WILPF sisters worldwide from Pakistan to USA expressed their enthusiasm to set about realizing the 16 days challenge. Worldwide WILPF sections are organizing a variety of inspiring and strategic activities to build on both the message of WILPF and that of the 16 days campaign!

“It is inspiring to be the Secretary General for an organization that gathers so much enthusiasm and determination”, continues Madeleine Rees. With countries spending enormous amounts of money every year on militarism, together we call for a shift in priorities in order to achieve sustainable development, gender equality and peace!

WILPF sections in over 16 countries will take part, including Australia, Colombia, Costa Rica, DRC, Germany, Finland, India, Mexico, Nepal, Netherlands, Nigeria, Pakistan, Switzerland, Sweden, the UK, and USA, as well as activities in Geneva arranged by the International Office of WILPF.