Women tackle some of the world’s toughest challenges, inspiring all

As we mark the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration, Religions for Peace reaffirms its unwavering commitment to promoting women’s inclusion in decision-making processes related to peacebuilding, human rights, and sustainable development. This Women’s Day, we call for collective action from religious leaders, policymakers, youth, and civil society to transform dialogue into meaningful initiatives that uphold the dignity and rights of all women and girls.

In line with our mission to advance gender equality, Religions for Peace established the Women of Excellence in Multi-Religious Action Award in 2023 to honour trailblazing women. In 2024, we proudly recognised Dr. Kezevino Aram, Prof. Dr. Nayla Tabbara, Rev. Sr. Agatha O. Chikelue, Ms. Laura Vargas, and Ms. Melody Amal Khalil Kabalan for their outstanding contributions. Additionally, we celebrated the leadership of women through our publication Building a Better World: The Women Leading Religions for Peace. As part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, our International Youth Committee hosted the “Interfaith Responses to Gender-Based Violence” Fireside Chat, reaffirming our dedication to women’s dignity and addressing this critical issue.

At Religions for Peace, we firmly believe that sustainable peace, justice, and development are achievable only when women are at the forefront of initiatives at all levels. This vision comes to life through our Women of Faith Networks, guided by the International Women’s Coordinating Committee. These networks empower women from diverse backgrounds to lead grassroots, national, and global actions for shared human flourishing. Despite persistent challenges in a historically male-dominated space, these women continue to confront some of the world’s most pressing issues with courage and tenacity, serving as an enduring source of inspiration to us all.