War and Peace

For women worldwide, the effects of war on their families, their communities, and, sometimes, their own bodies can be devastating.

In Congo, rape is a common weapon of war: rebels target female civilians in order to punish, humiliate, or threaten opposing factions. And in Afghanistan and Iraq, precarious security conditions have left women increasingly vulnerable. After the U.S. invasion, Iraqi Kurdistan saw a dramatic rise in attacks on women. According to one activist, more than 400 local women were burned in just one year for defying traditional gender roles.

Yet even in the face of such evil, women often take a stand for their loved ones and communities, and for an end to the violence. In Egypt, women played a key role in helping organize the peaceful revolution that toppled President Hosni Mubarak—helping their country avoid war altogether.

As members of the military, women often put up with discriminatory rules and treatment from their colleagues. And coming home, they face unique challenges reintegrating into civilian life.

Although women still make up less than 8 percent of participants in recent peace negotiations, when the fighting stops they play a critical role in rebuilding their communities and pressing for an end to violence.

Solutions

Black Women Empowered Safe Haven

Black Women Empowered Safe Haven

Black Women Empowered is a non-profit organization that addresses the widespread need of providing transitional to permanent housing for homeless female veterans and their children. Take Action »

F7 Group

F7 Group

F7 Group is dedicated to securing and providing resources, training, support and mentoring to female veterans and women in military service, both in and beside the uniform. Take Action »

Heshima Kenya

Heshima Kenya

After 19 years of regional refugee crisis, Heshima Kenya is the first and only organization in Kenya devoted to identifying, protecting and empowering unaccompanied refugee children and youth living in Nairobi. Take Action »

American Widow Project

American Widow Project

The American Widow Project is a network of military widows who support each other and remain connected though the Project's site, film, newsletter, hotline and events. Take Action »

Femmes Africa Solidarité (FAS)

Femmes Africa Solidarité (FAS)

The primary mission of Femmes Africa Solidarité (FAS) is to empower African women to assume a leadership role in building peace. Take Action »

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