U.N. panel calls for larger role for widows in peace-building

At a recent United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) panel, the topic of widowhood in conflict was introduced by Margaret Owen, the director of Widows for Peace and Democracy (WPD).

Representatives from NGOs and conflict-affected nations came to a consensus that listening to the voices of widows is critical in peace-building efforts. Their needs must be addressed, not only in the short term, but the long term as well, the participants maintained. Representing widows’ voices, it was agreed, will help poverty reduction efforts, and contribute to the welfare of widows and their children. Since most women are directly affected by conflict, involving them in the peace process is vital for positive change, the participants said.

For more information on Margaret Owen, click here.