Traditionally, women are the most vulnerable section of society, in times of war, instability and civil strife. At the same time, women have advantages as peacemakers. They are treated with a certain respect, which means that, at all times they may be accorded freedom of movement and expression, that men may not be allowed. They can express ideas that men might find difficult to express, without appearing weak or vulnerable. Their very vulnerability gives them more scope to take action for peace, as they are not seen as threatening. They can influence their men folk to engage in war, but in the same way, they can influence them in subtle ways to recognize the futility of war.
The violent conflict adversely affects women all the time – a realisation that has brought women together on this issue across cultures. For example, the Women in Black Movement in Israel, have held a silent vigil each week to witness for peaceful relations between Jews and Arabs. In South Asia too, women have thrown their lot against caste and communal violence. There are striking episodes from Bihar, wherein women from conflicting castes came together to defuse tension. There are also significant initiatives such as "Bus of Peace to Lahore" which brought women activists from India and Pakistan at the forefront of people to people dialogue.
Thus the central theme of the project entitled Women & Peace is that women (in tandem with men) should organise themselves across cultures and borders to intervene more actively to transform the present spree of violence and conflict in the world. The project aims at highlighting the critical interface between gender issues and the peace imperatives, which cuts across diverse cultures. It will offer an opportunity to academics as well as activists to share their experiences and insights so that effective strategies could be devised to raise awareness about potential of women in conflict management and peace building. We hope to create a network for a long-term collaboration on this vital concern.