The annual lecture, hosted by The Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation (D<LF) and the University of the Western Cape since 2011, aims to foster societal conversation about important issues, and focused this year on the topic of “women and peace”.
“Empowerment of women requires their full participation at all levels and on all issues of decision-making and peace building” Mary Robinson said as she delivered the 4th annual Desmond Tutu International Peace Lecture in Cape Town, today 07 October, focusing on women as agents of change both in terms of sustainable peace and climate justice.
The annual lecture, hosted by The Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation (D<LF) and the University of the Western Cape since 2011, aims to foster societal conversation about important issues, and focused this year on the topic of “women and peace”.
Speaking about the importance of participation in decision making Mary Robinson said
“Women’s participation in the prevention and resolution of conflicts is critical to building sustainable peace because no society can develop – economically, politically or socially – when half of its population is marginalized.”
Reflecting on her climate justice work and engagement with women leaders at all levels Mary Robinson “Climate action is an area where women across all sectors of society are leading the way in efforts to build resilience and adapt to the impacts of climate change.”
Drawing on other examples such as the “Doha Miracle” on gender balance at the UNFCCC processes in 2012, as well as recent experiences around the UN Secretary -General’s Climate Summit in New York including Marshall Island’s poet Kathy Jetnil-Kijiner’s and Graca Machel’s powerful speeches, Mary Robinson concluded her speech by looking towards a brighter future:
“I am particularly hopeful that women will take their rightful place in the 21st century, and that this will make all the difference! “
The Lecture was moderated by Africa Melane, SABC radio host and can be viewed here via SABC
Related Links
4th Annual Desmond Tutu International Peace Lecture – Women at the Heart of Sustainable Peace
Leaders’ Forum on Women Leading the Way: Raising Ambition for Climate Action
Graca Machel’s Closing Remarks at the UN Secretary-General’s Cliamte Summit 2014
UN Women and the Foundation launch gender balance report
The Full View: Advancing the goal of gender balance in multilateral and intergovernmental processes