Why Women Are the Key to Sustainable Peace – Insights from IWPG 2026 Conference
The International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG) Global Region 2 hosted the online IWPG 2026 Conference on April 11, 2026. The theme of the conference was “Her Voice of Peace: How Have Women Sustained Peace?”
Conference Overview and Participation
Global Participation and Attendance
The conference brought together approximately 200 participants from 15 countries, representing IWPG’s international partners.
Zone Considerations
Due to time differences, Latin American countries, including Colombia, will join a separate session.
Opening Session and Keynote Address of IWPG 2026 Conference
Interactive Opening Session
The event began with an engaging opening video and audience interaction activities.
Keynote by Dr. Ergogie Tesfaye
H.E. Dr. Ergogie Tesfaye, Minister of Women and Social Affairs of Ethiopia, delivered the keynote speech emphasizing:
- Women’s role in sustaining peace at community and individual levels
- The importance of institutionalizing women’s participation for lasting peace
Global Voices: Women Sharing Peace Experiences
🇦🇺 Melinda Jones – Peace Through Unity
Highlighted the importance of collective action:
- Peace is built through shared voices and unity, not just arguments
Anna Meliksetyan – Peace Beyond Silence
Explained how peace involves:
- Dialogue, struggle and social transformation, especially in marginalized communities
Patricia Elias – Women in Conflict Zones
Focused on global challenges:
- Women are not just victims but direct targets in conflicts
- Sustainable peace requires active female participation
Josianne Hajj Mussa – Daily Peace Choices
Stated that:
- Peace is a continuous daily decision, not a one-time event
🇦🇺 Mujgan Tahery – Inner Peace Foundation
Emphasized that:
- Peace begins internally and grows through mutual respect and understanding
Open Mic Session: Real-Life Peace Practices
Participants from diverse backgrounds shared insights, including:
- Government officials
- Judiciary members
- Professors
- Journalists
These discussions created strong engagement and practical insights into peacebuilding.
Action-Oriented Approach to Peacebuilding
From Discussion to Action
The conference focused on real-time decision-making, encouraging:
- Peace education programs
- Awareness campaigns
- Storytelling initiatives
Transforming Peace into Collective Action
The event successfully shifted peace from an individual choice to a collective movement, providing a structured path for ongoing engagement.
Future Collaboration and Global Impact
Strengthening Global Partnerships
Dr. Ergogie Tesfaye expressed interest in:
- Connecting IWPG with women’s organizations in Ethiopia
Expansion Plans by IWPG
IWPG plans to:
- Expand peace education programs
- Strengthen international partnerships
- Develop action-based peace initiatives
Closing Remarks: A Call for Collective Peace Action
Message by Seoyeon Lee
The Director of IWPG Global Region 2 emphasized:
- Peace already exists in everyday life
- The need to connect and expand individual peace efforts into collective action
About IWPG (International Women’s Peace Group)
IWPG is an international NGO registered with:
- United Nations ECOSOC
- UN Department of Global Communications (DGC)
- Ministry of Gender Equality and Family (South Korea)
Global Presence
- Operates in 122 countries
- 115 branches worldwide
- Collaborates with 900+ partner organizations