Women have emerged as pivotal figures in fostering global peace and democracy, as evidenced by the Nobel Peace Prize awarded to three women in 2011. This article explores how leveraging the unique capabilities of women can significantly enhance peace efforts both locally and globally.
On October 7, 2011, the Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to three women who had made significant contributions to peace efforts in their countries. Tawakkul Karman of Yemen, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia, and Leymah Gbowee, also from Liberia, were recognized for their courageous and effective peace activism. Karman, the first Arab woman to receive the prize, played a crucial role in initiating change and advocating for women's involvement in the formation of new democracies in Yemen. Sirleaf, Africa's first democratically elected female president, and Gbowee were instrumental in ending Liberia's long civil war and promoting women's roles in peace processes.
These awards highlighted the critical role women can play in peacebuilding and set a precedent for acknowledging women's contributions to global peace efforts.
In November 2011, Pakistan hosted the International Islamic Women Police Conference, a significant event that brought together female police officers from over ten Islamic countries. This conference aimed to enhance cooperation and address gender-specific issues within the law enforcement community. Despite women constituting less than one percent of law enforcers in Pakistan in 2010, efforts have been made to integrate more women into the police force, reflecting a broader international trend in Muslim countries. Studies have shown that female police officers often contribute to a more public-friendly image of the police force and are less likely to use extreme control methods (source).
The involvement of women in government roles has proven essential for promoting and sustaining peace at various levels. Governments are increasingly recognizing the importance of women's participation in peace processes to achieve lasting peace. For instance, post-conflict nations like South Sudan have seen women lead recovery and rehabilitation efforts as the country transitions to stability.
Investing in women not only supports peaceful coexistence but also yields a significant gender dividend through their roles as workers, consumers, and voters. Women globally are major contributors to small business ownership and significantly influence household purchasing decisions. Moreover, the number of women earning high salaries is growing at twice the rate of their male counterparts, affecting economic competitiveness and stability.
A 2010 McKinsey & Co. survey revealed that most executives believe gender diversity enhances financial performance. However, women remain underrepresented in executive roles globally, with only a small percentage occupying board positions in major firms across the United States, Australia, and Europe. This underrepresentation is seen as a missed opportunity for improving corporate governance and decision-making.
Several European countries have implemented or are considering laws to increase female representation in corporate leadership. For example, France has mandated that 40% of board seats in listed firms be reserved for women by 2017, with similar laws in place in Norway and Spain. These measures aim to break the cycle of male-dominated mentorship and promotion within companies, which has historically hindered women's career advancement.
The role of women in peacebuilding and economic development is undeniable. From reducing conflict to enhancing corporate governance and economic stability, the inclusion of women in these areas leads to more effective outcomes. As the world continues to recognize and harness the power of women in leading change, the potential for achieving lasting peace and prosperity grows ever more attainable.
Early intervention at secondary school to increase university enrolments in computing and science
This article discusses a pilot program introduced in secondary Australian schools in collaboration with computer science and engineering departments in two universities to prepare students with specialized employable skills. The premise is that the pilot program will lead to increased enrollments in related subjects at university level.
How To Make Science, Technology, Engineering, And Mathematics Cool At School
Science, mathematics, technology, and engineering are not cool subjects, according to today’s students. Female students are underrepresented in these subjects and careers, and students are opting for easier versions of these subjects, impacting the pool of qualified candidates for these fields.
Mathematical Genius: Born or Raised; Caused or Praised?
What makes a mathematical genius? Are they born or are they raised? Are they the result of hours of study or mountains of praise? Are people who have an IQ above 140 brilliant or “odd”? Or does talent come from being consistently adept in a range of academic, artistic, social, and physical accomplishments? This article looks at the life an eminent genius and the lessons it has for mentor, parents, and teachers.
