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Across the world women have increasingly gained a voice in the development of their communities reducing gender-related barriers to opportunities. However, for women in many countries, culture remains the main constraint in efforts to reduce gender inequalities. Women and men need to work together so peace and development can progress, especially in post-conflict environments which impact on women’s access to education, jobs and decision-making.
The first Women for Peace Conference was held in Jakarta, Indonesia in 2007 and supported by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Timor Leste is pleased to have been chosen to host the second International Women for Peace Conference. Like women in many other countries, during the long struggle for independence, women of Timor-Leste contributed to the independence process in many different roles. For twenty five years our Timorese sisters struggled to survive under oppression of the Indonesian military. Today Timorese women try to find their self confidence in new roles in a Timorese society that is dominated by a patriarchal system. The occupation is over but today, domestic violence and cultural violence still play a dominant part in Timorese women’s lives.

The conference will create an opportunity for women from around the world to join with Timorese women and through discussion and artistic performance find ways to build on their experiences of transforming conflict into peace. The conference includes the following activities:

Student research into the role of Timorese women in conflict and peace

An artists workshop for a month before the conference to create visual and performing arts to reflect on conflict, its impact on women and creative ways forward

2 days conference including artistic performances

A 14 week roadshow to share the outcomes, art, performance and theatre from the conference with all districts of Timor Leste

The Conference will be held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Conference Hall, Marconi, in Dili.