United Nations Office Newsletter

Improving Education for Women and Girls in Science and Technology

55th UN CSW WFWPI Parallel Event and Luncheon Meeting

February 23, 2011 ~ UN Church Center, UNHQ, New York City

By Cynthia Shibuya and Merly Barlaan Speakers: Ms. Sachiko Mori, Vice Project Director, WFWP School Project in Kenya Dr. Gita Bangera, Microbiologist and Instructor at Bellevue College, Bellevue, WA, Founder of the ComGen Project, Authentic Research Experiences for Undergraduate Students

Spring 2011

Contents 55th CSW - WFWPI Parallel Events------------1 At the UN in New York NGO Briefings--------------------------------------2 Reports from Special Events----------------------3 At the UN in Geneva - ----------------------------4 International Women’s Day- -------------------4 Can UPR Reach Slow Learners----------------5 At the UN in Vienna - -----------------------------5 10th Anniversary of UNTOC- ----------------5 Activities Around the World Africa- ---------------------------------------------6 Asia---------------------------------------------- 6-7 WFWP Conferences Costa Rica-----------------------------------------9 11th WFWP Int’l Leaders Workshop------- 11 Upcoming Events--------------------------------- 12

with an enrollment of 45 students. The for community college students to conduct school built a science lab for students to fully research for a USDA research study. Dr. experience science in practice, not just in theory, Bangera conducts her class similar to a graduate creating excitement in the pursuit of careers in level class. Rather than the instructor driven science and technology. Ms. Mori described the lecture/study method of instruction, students culture in rural areas as still heavily emphasizing start immediately in the research project and education for boys, and expectations of girls to get involved in the problem-solving process, focus on duties within the home, i.e. cooking generating the student’s creativity and abilities. and gathering water, etc. Tuition-free education It is a whole new teaching dynamic that has Ms. Lily Lin, President, National Alliance of at Handow School has allowed an increase of been highly effective, stimulating greater Taiwan Women’s Association girls’ participation in education. Because of free interest and involvement. Students have the Ms. Karen Smith, Vice Chair of the Alliance enrollment there are now over 360 boys and opportunity to meet and interact with the of NGOS on Crime Prevention and Criminal over 280 girls in ten classrooms and two Science scientists leading the research study and begin Justice and Founder of the NGO Academy labs. The government requested the second lab to associate themselves within the scientific Moderator: to be built because of the increase in enrollment. research community. Some students have Ms. Bonnie Berry, UN Representative, It is very remarkable to have two laboratories in participated in six week summer internships in WFWP International a rural area school. Educating girls in the field research labs alongside these leading researchers. In a gathering of 100, that of science has resulted in many girls pursuing Alumni of this class, particularly women had standing-room only, Ms. careers in medicine. students, experience a much stronger self-image Sachiko Mori opened the with regard to their confidence in conducting Dr. Gita Bangera gave a session with her moving slide scientific research as well as a stronger vision very exciting report on her presentation on the Handow of themselves as scientists. Dr. Bangera’s style innovative teaching strategy Secondary School located in of “thinking outside the box” generated much for undergraduate level science rural Marakusi village 400 excitement among workshop participants. students. Her U.S. National miles from Nairobi, Kenya. In 1998, the Science Foundation funded WFWPI Parallel Event , contd. on pg. 8 Handow Secondary school opened officially project provides opportunities Spring 2011 1

Statement of Purpose

The Women’s Federation for World Peace International (WFWPI) supports a network of National WFWP Chapters worldwide. WFWP Chapters adhere to the principle that women, working together, taking initiative and empowering one another across traditional lines of race, culture and religion to create healthy families, are resolving the complex problems of our societies and world. Ultimately “solutions” come as true partnerships

This newsletter is published by the United Nation’s Office of the Women’s Federation for World Peace International 4 West 43rd Street New York, NY 10036, USA

At the UN in New York …

Reports of NGO Briefings

Launch of UN Voluntary Trust Fund for Victims of Trafficking

Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children November 4, 2010 - North Lawn Building, New York By Cynthia Shibuya

H.E. Joseph Deiss, President of the UN General Assembly 65th Session, opened the launch with thanks and welcome to the Secretary-General and his on-going effort on this issue, introduced special guests, New York Times Pulitzer Prize winning author and journalist Nicholas Kristof (panel moderator) and humanitarians and actors Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher, and expressed special thanks to UNODC, administrators of the Fund. between men and women are established in all H.E. Deiss explained that, “The Trust Fund levels of society. The beginning point is within is one of the most important elements of the society’s most elemental level—the family. new United Nations Global Plan of Action to Peace then expands into our communities, Combat Trafficking in Persons adopted by the nation and world. Therefore, WFWP works to General Assembly in July 2010. It will provide provide women worldwide with: humanitarian, legal and financial aid to victims the knowledge, tools and support needed of human trafficking with the aim of increasing to create peace at home, peace in our the number of victims who are rescued and communities, our nations and our world. supported, and broadening the assistance they receive.” WFWP International is a non-profit, non- Secretary General Ban Ki-moon opened governmental international organization in General his statement by welcoming the panelists and Consultative Status of ECOSOC and thanking UNDOC. Secretary General Ban is DPI Associates with the United Nations so committed to this issue, as it is closely tied to his agenda to end violence against women Motoko Sugiyama and children. Ban stated, “So much of our Publisher & Editor-in-Chief work at the United Nations is about widening Bonnie Berry, Editor the horizons of hope for women and girls. Merly Barrete-Barlaan, Production & Distribution This is my priority as Secretary-General of Friederike Buczyk, Layout & Design

“May I Ask a Question, Madame Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence Against Children?”

December 16, 2010 - North Lawn Building, New York By Cynthia Shibuya

the United Nations. We know that when you educate a girl, you educate a family. But when you traffic and enslave a woman or girl, you hold the future hostage. Our efforts today will identify more victims, particularly women and children, who can get the help and care they so desperately need, reintegrate into society

and ensure they never again become a victim. And we have made progress. One hundred and forty-one States have become party to the United Nations Protocol against Human Trafficking. The international community has an agreed definition of trafficking in persons. It is no longer an ignored crime. We are seeing concerted action. Many countries have adopted anti-human trafficking legislation, established anti-human trafficking police units and set in motion national strategies to stop this horrible Trafficking, continued on pg. 10

30 years of experience on human rights issues and Children’s Rights.

In 2006 a UN study on violence against For information, subscriptions, comments or children was conducted by Paulo Serfio After greetings and introductions by the Pinheiro, Brazilian diplomat and former UN Moderator (Gail Bindley-Taylor Sainte: editorial suggestions, please phone or fax: (914) Special Rapporteur. He found that millions of Public Information Officer), a short video was 946-3017 children throughout the world suffer the effects presented illustrating the predicament of small or write to our NY address. of violence, including injuries, disabilities, life- children of young, uneducated and heavily- Email: WFWPINTL1@aol.com long emotional and psychological effects and drinking parents in poor areas of Central sometimes even death. The study recommended America. Referring to the video, Ms. Pais Satellite UN Offices that governments act to establish a Special discussed the deeply-rooted belief that physical Geneva, Switzerland Representative to the Secretary General on punishment is an acceptable intervention for Ch de la Pierreire 1c Violence against Children (SRSG). The role children’s misbehavior. After four years of 1092 Belmont-sur-Lausann of the SRSG would be to act as a high-profile study she found violence against children is widely accepted but a taboo subject. It is a global advocate to promote prevention and Phone/Fax +41 21 728 8812 elimination of all violence against children. difficult problem to address because children Email: wfwpi_ch@swissonline.ch are afraid to talk for fear of reprisal. Also, it is On May 1, 2009, Marta Santos Pais, a Vienna, Austria very difficult for a child to tell and be believed. national of Portugal, was appointed as the Baumbichlstr. 8a They may tell five to ten times and still not be Special Representative of the UN Secretary- 5026 Salzburg believed, which also traumatizes the child and General on Violence against Children. She Phone: +43 650 885 1988 has a lasting effect. reports directly to the Secretary-General, Email: wfwpeurope@gmail.com chairs the UN Inter Agency Working Group Girls, particularly, are at risk. Worldwide, one in five girls experience sexual abuse. 20% on Violence against Children and collaborates Find us on the Web at closely with a wide range of partners, within of girls in Africa are sexually abused. They http://www.wfwp.org and beyond the UN system. She has more than May I Ask? , contd. on pg. 10

2 WFWPI-UN Newsletter

NGO CSW Consultation Day

February 21, 2011 - Salvation Army HQ, NY By Merly Barlaan

NGO CSW New York organized a Consultation Day for NGO leaders coming from around the world including WFWPI delegates from USA and Taiwan attending the 55th Session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW). The keynote speaker was Ms. Michelle Bachelet, Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of the new UN Women. Also featured: a speech by Dr. Kaosar Afsana, Associate Director, Health Programme, BRAC Bangladesh, a panel on education, science and technology, a discussion on UN Women, and breakout sessions on : 1. Increasing women’s access to and use of technology, including more gender responsive products, 2. Increasing CSW Consultation Day, contd. on pg. 10

Reports from Special Events

WFWP International and WFWP Japan donated $9000 for Victims of Pakistan Flood to World Food Program on December 1, 2010. Mrs. Motoko Sugiyama, VP and Director of UN Office of WFWP International and Mr. Pedro Medrano, Director of World Food Program-NY and North America Office.

49th Session of Commission for Social Development on Poverty Eradication

February 9-18, 2011 ~ UN HQ, New York City

By Jeanne Carroll The 29th Session for the Commission for Social Development was held in order to assess global efforts toward fulfilling Millennium Development Goal #1, to reduce by half the proportion of people living on less than a dollar a day. The Commission took into consideration the Secretary-General’s report outlining current poverty trends and the global economic condition. In the sixteen years since the World Summit for Social Development, held in Copenhagen in 1995, eradication of poverty is still an undeniable requirement to achieve social justice and all-inclusive development for all people. Commission Chair, H.E. Jorge Valero, Chairperson of the 49th Session of the Commission for Social Development

55th Commission on the Status of Women

February 22 - March 4, 2011 ~ UN HQ, New York City

By Bonnie Berry The priority theme for the 55th CSW was: Access and participation of women and girls in education, training and science and technology, including for the promotion of women’s equal access to full employment and decent work. More than 1350 NGO representatives from 106 different nations were in attendance. A cap of 20 delegates per NGO was in place as the remodel of UN Headquarters in New York City continues. The turnout was much lower than last year, which made access to parallel events much more manageable. But due to limited capacity in the conference rooms where official

Permanent Representative, Permanent Mission and Permanent Representative of Zambia to of Venezuela to the United Nations stated the UN, President of the Economic and Social that the current model based on external Council emphasized that the poverty-education interconnection is always clearly defined in the implementation hampers fulfillment of Goal One. He encouraged the construction of a new work of the UN. Since 2005 ECOSOC has human centered model of development. The been overseeing effort toward achieving the aim is to achieve social justice through social MDGS. While accomplishment of Goal One inclusion, equity and active participation of seems probable, “nearly 900 million people will people. The Chair also cited, “The process of still live in poverty in 2015. Mr. Kapambwe formulating social policies should be sovereign, focused on the Secretary-General’s report inclusive, participatory and co-responsible. emphasizing the vicious cycle between poverty Here we have a good space for civil society and and low levels of education. H.E. Kapambwe social and popular movements to participate earnestly stressed the necessity for access to in. Likewise, further progress is needed in quality education in order to seize opportunities gender equality and the empowerment of that enable individuals to emerge from poverty. women and special measures should be He added that, “many of the countries most implemented to ensure equal opportunities affected by poverty are not expected to meet for the most excluded and vulnerable sectors of Millennium Development Goal 2 on universal the population.” The power of these opening primary education. Without urgent measures, 56 million children are expected to be left out statements set the tone for the speakers. of school in 2015. Currently, 759 million adults H.E. Mr. Lazarous Kapambwe, Ambassador Poverty Eradication, continued on pg. 11

sessions were held, each NGO received only one ticket per day to gain entry into official sessions. For those who had lobbying agendas and those who came great distances, this restriction was frustrating. As one NGO representative pointed out, “you can’t lobby if you can’t get in the right building”. Other NGO representatives expressed fervent hopes that when the remodel is complete there will be accommodations for larger numbers of participants from civil society and NGOS. Dignitaries offering statements at the opening of the CSW were UN Deputy Secretary General Ms. Asha Rose Migiro

UN ECOSOC President H.E. Mr. Lazarous Kapambwe, H.E. Mr. Garen Nazarian Chair of the Commission on the Status of Women, Ms. Silvia Pimentel, Chair of CEDAW and newly appointed Executive Director of UN Women and UN Undersecretary General H.E. Michelle Bachelet. Each speaker affirmed the UN Women , great stride forward in creation of which consolidated the four UN agencies that serve women and placed leadership in the UN Secretariat. Ms. Bachelet reminded participants that research shows gender equality is an instrument of development. She expressed appreciation for all efforts to prepare for the formation of UN Women . Ms. Bachelet committed UN Women to five thematic priorities: expanding women’s voice, leadership 55th CSW, continued on pg. 12

Spring 2011 3

At the UN in Geneva …

International Women’s Day Commemorating Advances of Women’s Right To Education and Decent Work

March 8, 2011 - Geneva, Switzerland By Alan Sillitoe

Ms. Patricia Schulz , member of the (IFUW), just returned from the Commission CEDAW committee and former Director of on the Status of Women (CSW) in New York.

Ms. Schulz, Ms. Kang, Ms. Ponchini, Ambassador Koubaa, Ms. Haslegrave, Ms. Handschin

The CONGO Committee on the Status of Women hosted their annual international roundtable titled, Celebrating Women’s the Federal Department of Gender Equality As a historian, she explained that we are looking Rights: Higher Education - Pathway to Gender in Switzerland explained that Switzerland is a at something that started 100 years ago. Women Equality and Decent Work on the occasion of country in which the roles are shared between then wanted the vote, equal pay and equal the federal and local governments regarding opportunities. We have the vote but the other the 100th anniversary of International Women’s education. There has been a lot of catching two goals have yet to be achieved. During the Day. WFWPI, represented by Ms. Carolyn Handschin, of the Executive Committee, up in terms of gender equality in education. CSW, UN Women was inaugurated, thanks was the main organizer of this event. The Previously, girls had to be better than boys to to the efforts of the NGOS. CSW is part of roundtable was chaired by Ms. Conchita attain the same level of education, but this has ECOSOC. We must make sure that its work been abolished. There are now more women continues as it is the best conduit for women’s Ponchini, President of the Committee. than men in higher education. However, there issues. Various attempts were made to change Ms. Kyung Wha Kang , Deputy High are more men than women in the technical the wording of certain terms in the agreed Commissioner for Human Rights spoke on fields. In terms of doctoral students, there conclusions. Attempts were made to replace gender disparity in higher education. She also are about 40% of women. There are 52% of maternal health by women’s procreative health. pointed out that women represent only a small women in the universities, but only 14% of American conservatives tried to question the fraction of elected officials in most countries. professors are women. Therefore, in spite of term “gender mainstreaming”. One of the This disparity exists in many other areas. For progress, this is not reflected in employment. phrases being used was that women’s rights are Therefore, several measures are now underway human rights. The priority theme was access to overcome this disparity. However, strong for girls and women to science, technology, political will is required for these programs to engineering and math education and careers. continue, especially as attempts are being made This provided an opportunity. Getting children to declare them unconstitutional. Ms. Schulz into education is not sufficient, however. We also pointed out that the Swiss fiscal system have to keep them there, especially girls. We is unfavorable for couples who both work. have to ensure secondary education for girls. Changes are needed to rectify this. The federal We have to ensure that girls can go to school government has analyzed measures necessary to without suffering from violence. We have to give respond to the recommendations of CEDAW. girls sexuality education so they are empowered example, difficulties faced by educated women It is particularly important that measures be to make choices that value themselves. We have who cannot find decent work, constitute one to prevent early marriage. These things prevent taken to overcome stereotypes. of the key elements contributing to recent girls from getting secondary education. We Ms. Jane Hodges , Director developments in the Arab world. Security can be happy that there is parity in tertiary of the ILO (International Labor Council resolution 1889 in 2009 spoke of the education, but this is not the case in science Organization) Office of Gender need to address the problems of discrimination and technology. Girls go into medicine but Equality cited the catch phrase of faced by women. not so many into applied sciences. Also, what the ILO, “learning for earning”, Mr. Mohamed Samir Koubaa , Chief happens to girls when they graduate? In the UK, indicating that it is important of the UN Mission of Tunisia gave some they don’t seem to end up in the science field. that equality exists not only in education, intriguing insights into Tunisia’s situation. However, our data is insufficient. but also in employment. Generally, women He stated that while Tunisia has nothing to Mr. Daniel Kull of the earn less than men for the same jobs. Gender be proud of in terms of its past human rights Disaster Risk Management equality is at the heart of decent work. What record, it has started out on its difficult journey Department read a statement on does that mean? The roles of women and toward democracy, which may be long, but is behalf of Selina Jackson, Head men in society have changed. The response to irreversible. He suggested that the revolution of the Media Department at the present financial crisis should not impact in Tunisia was made possible by education. the World Bank regarding their gains made by women in the economy. The Many highly educated people participated gender action plan. The GAP G20 is turning to the ILO for reports on in this revolution, including women. In July education and training. Empowering women or Gender Action Plan, with a budget of about there will be a constituent assembly to form a is a key to emerging from the current financial 70 million dollars, is used to support gender new government and constitution. Tunisia is crisis. Maintaining a minimum wage is a key mainstreaming. The GAP has provided funds now making many efforts to conform to the to ensuring women’s place in the economy. to 260 projects in over 70 countries. The AGI, various international human rights obligations. Convention 100 of the ILO deals with equal Adolescent Girls Initiative, is a flagship program All political prisoners have benefited from pay for men and women and convention 111 with a budget of 24 million dollars. The World amnesty. “All special rapporteurs are invited is about equality in the workplace. Ms. Hodges Bank is now evaluating GAP, which ended in to visit the country”, Mr. Koubaa announced. hopes these conventions will be ratified by 2010. Gender will be a special theme for the He added that he grew up with three sisters 2015. The participation of women in leadership IDA (International Development Association) and has two daughters. He stated that there are positions needs to be increased. She was happy program. At the World Bank, about one third of many women human rights activists in Tunisia to hear about the role played by women in the managers are women. He emphasized that the who were marginalized until now, but who will World Bank is committed to further progress on democracy movement in Tunisia. now be able to play an important role. Indeed, gender parity at the management level. in Tunisia, women play an important role in Marianne Haslegrave , President of the International Federation of University Women preventing extremism in all its forms. 4 WFWPI-UN Newsletter

Can the UPR Reach Even the “Slow Learners”?

February 20, 2011 By Carolyn Handschin and Yvonne Von Stedingk

A central mission of the UN is to protect human rights. From its inception, the body entrusted with promoting respect for human rights, fostering international cooperation in human rights, responding to violations in specific countries and assisting in building human rights capacity, was the Commission on Human Rights. Sixty years later, times changed. Shortcomings of the Commission were increasingly obvious. The main criticism was that the motivation for States to seek membership in the Commission often appeared to be to protect themselves against criticism rather than strengthening their human rights system. An increased need to support strong domestic human rights institutions, especially in countries emerging from conflict and in the fight against terrorism, influenced the Security Council efforts to upgrade the Commission to a Human Rights Council (HRC), as a Charter body. In his March 2005 Report ‘’In Larger Freedom’’, then UN Secretary General Kofi Annan expressed, ’’ if the United Nations is to meet expectations of men and women everywhere – and, indeed, if the Organization is to take the cause of human rights as seriously

At the UN in Vienna …

as those of security and development – then Member States should replace the Commission on Human Rights with a stronger Human Rights Council’’. On March 15, 2006, the General Assembly adopted resolution 60/251 setting up the Council. In the very Those NGOS who experienced this very “high gear” period of closing the Commission last paragraph of that Resolution is stipulated and placing the mandate for a new body, felt that ‘’the Council shall review its work and functioning five years after its establishment that they were making history. The Human Rights Council was given one year from March and report to the General Assembly’’. 15, 2006 to form. And it did so. Secretary General (SG) Ban Ki Moon said of the Human Rights Council’s (HRC) Universal Central to the HRC and the most tangible Periodic Review (UPR), it “has great potential innovation is the UPR, a visionary mechanism to promote and protect human rights in the to avoid the pitfalls of the elder institution that relies on nations’ motivation to improve darkest corners of the world”. It is too early human rights standards when faced with a to judge this global platform for governments to showcase their best practices and align their peer review, according to common criteria. human rights obligations to the standard of The HRC is required to review fulfillment of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, human rights obligations and commitments by all UN member States, beginning with but it holds great promise. It also opens a members of the Council. The entire Council, new dynamic of influence on states’ conduct through the interface of assessment by the as a working group, conducts the UPRS through Office of the High Commissioner for Human an interactive dialogue with each state. The Rights, national human rights institutions and close of the first cycle of four years will end in 2011. All states will have an opportunity to NGOS. declare actions taken to fulfill human rights In 2004, within a larger UN reform plan, obligations human rights were prioritized as crucial to Nations, like people have personalities. The meeting global security and development needs. UPR process will not influence those hiding At this time, criticism on the credibility of the Slow Learners , contd. on pg. 11

Commission on Human Rights was prevalent. The criticism reflected a memory lapse about great achievements made by loyalists to the Commission, its Sub-Commission and its many Special Procedures, mechanisms to monitor and report on human rights issues in specific countries and without which the work of the Council would be hard to imagine.

Conference of State Parties to the UNTOC and Working Group on Trafficking in Persons

October 2010 - Vienna By Elisabeth Reidl

drug trafficking, must be acknowledged and treatment and exploitation. The signatories addressed in order to reduce these crimes. urge parties to this treaty to protect, respect and uphold all migrant rights regardless of their legal status and in particular to put in place all necessary measures in order to prevent violations of their rights.

October 18th, 2010 marked the 10th Anniversary of the UN Convention against Trafficking in Persons- Signatories expressed that though progress has been made Transnational Organized Crime and its Protocols (UNTOC). WFWPI collaborated in States which have adopted and implemented with other NGOS, including victim based legislation that is victim-centered in design, NGOS serving migrants and trafficked persons they are concerned that these states are the The statement endorsed The Firearms and those NGOS affected by the illicit trade in minority. Too often anti-trafficking legislation protocol as an essential tool in curbing is not drafted with trafficked persons in the spread of illicit weapons and reducing firearms to develop a joint statement requesting the establishment of a victim-centered review mind. Only through victim-centered anti- their harmful impact on individuals and mechanism to UNTOC, which is both inclusive trafficking initiatives can states successfully communities, and asked that those States that and comprehensive, involving all stakeholders combat trafficking, punish traffickers and have not yet done so to ratify this important in UNTOC, including implementing partners offer victims appropriate assistance, redress or Protocol. Implementation in line with the remedy. The legal framework outlined in the obligations of the Protocol includes regulating in the Convention. Human Trafficking Protocol acknowledges the manufacturing, marking, record-keeping, and The statement expresses concern that primacy of human rights in all anti-trafficking international transfer of firearms, their parts, momentum to implement the Convention and initiatives; thus the statement stresses that components and ammunition and criminalizing its protocols is waning and belief that in order rights must be integral to anti-trafficking legal illicit manufacture and trafficking. To this end, to achieve UNTOC’s aims, there is a pressing frameworks. the signatories encourage States to utilize the need to reinvigorate this treaty by assessing UNODC Model Law to strengthen their successes and limitations in its implementation. Smuggling of Migrants- The statement national law in a manner consistent with the emphasizes the rights of smuggled migrants and The following are the 4 main areas of Protocol. the importance of freedom from criminalization concern in the statement: of those who have been victims of smuggling. (Complete text of the Statement by NGOS Transnational organized crime- The The recent murder of 72 smuggled migrants to Conference of State Parties to the UNTOC statement declares that illegal assets confiscated in Mexico is deplored in the statement. It is and Working Group on Trafficking in Persons from organized criminal groups should be imperative that no more migrants pay the 18.10.2010 is available at www.wfwp.org) redistributed through community projects and price of their lives as an impetus for States to activities. Further, endemic official corruption, recognize the need to offer migrants access which reinforces and promotes links between to justice and protections from inhuman criminal activities such as terrorism and Spring 2011 5

Kenya ~

By Mrs. Susan Kone, WFWP-Kenya/International VP WFWPI Kayole Celebrations March 8th, 2011. WFWP-Kenya collaborated with St. Thaddeus Child Welfare Society to organize celebrations in commemoration of International Women’s Day at Kayole Social Hall. The invited guests were the District Officer of Kayole, (DO), Mr. Ondachi, the Labour Officer of Kayole, the Representative of Maendeleo ya Wanawake Embakasi- Mrs. Grace Akinyi, Human Rights activist, Pamela and WFWP-Kenya officials. WFWP-Kenya chairperson Mrs. Susan Kone introduced WFWP’s vision and philosophy. She also issued certificates of participation to women leaders who had participated in a Leadership and Management seminar, and donated bean seeds to the women’s group. D.O. Mr. Ondachi spoke representing the Kenya government praising the work being done by women in an effort to empower themselves and to promote peace in the nation. This day ended with much song and dance in celebration of women’s achievements.

The District Officer Presents Certificates

Thailand ~

WFWP Delegation at Int’l Women’s Day Celebration at UN Conference Center, Bangkok (3/25/10)

Commemorating Int’l Family Day: Skill Training for Women: “Shower Gel” Making …

6 WFWPI-UN Newsletter

Activities Around the World in 2010

International Women’s Day Celebrations

On behalf of WFWP, Mrs. Susan Kone Donates Seeds

School Children’s Choir

The District Officer Presents Certificates

Participation in UN Activities

Participated at Launching of Int’l Year of Youth 2010

WFWP joined Tree Planting project with RYS participants and villagers …

Brahma Kumaris Spiritual University Mrs. Rattan K. Channa, Chairperson of the United Religions Initiative-Kenya gave a speech about the challenges women go through in their lives, the kind of attitude they need to adopt to be successful in their lives and to contribute to building a peaceful, prosperous society and nation. Mrs. Susan Kone WFWP-Kenya talked about letting go of negative energy and letting go of things we do not need in our physical and spiritual lives. Finally she offered guidance on how to live for the sake of others, giving to and serving others. Mrs. Sylvie Compaigne of UNEP shared her personal experience in overcoming and healing from cancer. The Director of BKSU gave a testimony about how she started her mission with the spirit of pioneering. She explained how she overcame all kinds of challenges, sailing through out of sheer determination and deep faith.

Speakers

Guests

Attended UNESCAP Distinguished Lecture on “Peace, Violence & Development in Modern Society”, presented by Prof. Amartya Sen, Nobel Laureate

Scholarship awards for children in need.

Nepal ~ Women Leadership Training & Service

Microfinance Project

Laos ~

Bamboo Basket Project of Pioneson Village Women, in Vienkam District, Vientian Province

Myanmar ~

Sakura Vocational School

Taiwan ~ AIDS Prevention & Anti-Drugs Programs

AIDS Prevention & Anti-Drug Program Press Conference, Launching Fund Drive & Creative Competition

WFWP invited Government, Enterprises, NGOS, Media and Schools to assist activities

Africa & Asia

70 Seminar Participants at“The Role of Women Leaders Stationary distribution by WFWP-Gorkha: 697 students bene- fit from Mr. Ozumisan’s aid, President, Lions Club of Japan; in Peace-building and Good Governance” on 6/23/10

Investment of $1500 has multiplied to $2300 and served 58 families

Vocational training for Women

Multi-Cultural Networking with 22 Org. (WON-Women Orga- 3 Level Sewing Classes: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced nizations Network) , sharing information, resources, trainers.

WFWP assists Taipei Municipal Education Bureau 2010 Anti-Drug Advocate Carnival (20,500 Participants)

Students like the Campaign Posters

Toilet Repair Project: before (left) & after (rights)

The District Officer Presents Certificates

During Cultural Festival Town Officer, representing local schools, receives donation raised by WFWP USA.

Lecture Campaign throughout Campuses in Taiwan: Total of 80 lectures and 37,219 participants.

“Youth, Let’s Concern About AIDS & Say No to Drugs— Speech & Quiz” Creative Competition

Spring 2011 7

that the Alliance initiated are: computer and to intern at the UN to gain advocacy skills internet application training courses for girls and experience. Having that international

WFWPI Parallel Event , contd from pg. 1 Ms. Lily Lin spoke on and women, speeches and remarks from advocacy experience on one’s resume gives efforts in Taiwan by a coalition women leaders in science and technology were greater credibility and a stronger, more effective of women’s organizations for compiled into a book which was distributed to voice when bringing issues up to national engaging high school girls high school students. Ms. Lin told a story about or local governments. The combination of a in science and technology a Taiwanese woman who after her divorce, tried strong resume and advocacy skills lends power education and career pathways. to make bread for a living but was not able to and authority to voices of advocates for girls’ She identified old attitudes in sell enough bread to be successful, even though educational development. Taiwan that “the woman’s the bread was very tasty. After attending a All in all, this was a very powerful and place is in the home” as a major obstacle in course on the internet and social networking, exciting workshop with many best practices engaging more girls in science and technology the woman created her own blog about her presented. Participants left feeling empowered careers. This tradition is still very strong in products and now has a thriving business with with new ideas and strategies for furthering Taiwan. To combat this, the Taiwan Women’s her now famous “breathing bread.” the cause of developing the area of science and Alliance initiated conferences, symposiums Ms. Karen Smith gave technology education for girls. and speaking tours aimed at high school girls a compelling presentation to promote understanding about careers in using physics analogies to science and technology. Other best practices demonstrate the need for effective strategizing and advocacy to gain real results. Essentially she posed the idea that just stating your needs over and over does not always result in having those needs met. One idea of an effective strategy to gain government and UN support to develop science and technology education for girls is for NGOS to send representatives

The Role of NGO in the Access and Participation of Women and Girls To Education, Training, Science & Technology WFWPI Luncheon Meeting - Parallel Event, 55th UN CSW February 23, 2011 - UN Delegates Dining Room at UNHQ, New York City

Dr. Lan Young Moon Park

Ambassador Daniel Antonio

Luncheon Participants with Guests of Honor

Keynote Speaker, Mr. Andrei Abramov

WFWPI held its annual luncheon meeting She stressed the role of NGOS in influencing equality for all women and men. Mr. Abramov to commemorate the 55th Session of CSW governments, lawmakers and society, to improve explained that NGOS’ specialized knowledge just following a very successful parallel event. opportunities for women to enter into the fields and understanding of local populations, Around sixty guests consisting of WFWP of science and technology. She concluded her regional economic and social issues and policy leaders, constituents, and CSW delegates from remarks by thanking WFWPI representatives implications often enable governments and UN Japan, Taiwan, and USA attended the event. worldwide who have been sincerely carrying out programmes to deliver aid to those who need The event was graced by the guest speaker, volunteer service work and education programs it. He also emphasized that NGOS’ partnership Mr. Andrei Abramov, Chief, NGO Branch, based on true maternal love in order to achieve with ECOSOC ensure that the international United Nations Department of Economic and the Millennium Development Goals. community is synchronized and informed about Social Affairs (DESA), Office for the ECOSOC Ambassador Daniel Antonio began realities on the ground. On the perspective of Support and Coordination, and His Excellency his remarks, thanking WFWPI for its long women and technology, Mr. Abramov pointed Mr. Daniel Antonio, Ambassador, Permanent standing friendship and partnership with out that better educated women are more Representative of the Republic of Mozambique the Mozambican people and its government productive and the accumulation of knowledge to the United Nations. increases the rate of technological change thus through WFWPI’s school projects. The school accelerating economic growth. Ms. Motoko Sugiyama, WFWPI VP and project and the role it plays in helping shape Director of WFWPI UN Office as well as the lives of youth through access to vocational Mr. Abramov informed luncheon host and organizer of the Luncheon Meeting school and education in the field of science participants about upcoming and increasing was the program moderator. Prof. Lan Young and technology have made a lasting positive opportunities for NGOS to provide input Moon Park, President of WFWP International impact in Mozambique. Ambassador Antonio to both the UN General Assembly’s and delivered a heart-warming message that the concluded his remarks by leading a celebratory ECOSOC’s dialogs. He concluded his remarks 21st century is the age of information and toast. by thanking all NGOS working on education technology as well as the era of women. She After lunch, keynote speaker, Mr. Andrei related issues and encouraging them that emphasized the importance of seeking harmony Abramov spoke on the role of NGOS in access 2011 will provide many opportunities to through female leadership in all sectors and to and participation of women and girls in make contributions. (For complete text of Mr. advancement of the feminine qualities that education, training, science and technology. Abramov’s speech, please refer to WFWPI website: bring the necessary balance with male-centered He stated that NGOS are key partners in the www.wfwp.org). leadership to enhance global development. quest to achieve peace, prosperity and gender 8 WFWPI-UN Newsletter

January 21-23, 2011 - San Jose, Costa Rica By Angelika Selle, WFWP President USA More than 500 women leaders and professionals from Anglo and Latin America gathered in San Jose, Costa Rica to discuss and learn about the unique

In Costa Rica, a Step Toward “Soft Power” Leadership International WFWP Women’s Conference

on the Status of Women during the George W. Bush administration. Some of the issues the women delegates addressed during the conference were: t Establishing literacy programs (one part of Koch’s presentation). Women’s rights - Congresswoman Porras t Pilar Zuniga, representing San Jose in the role of women’s leadership in solving the world’s Costa Rican National Assembly, described problems in the century ahead. the struggle of Costa Rican women to Women’s Federation for World Peace achieve gender equity in the workplace and (WFWP) International and WFWP USA assist victims of domestic violence. organized the conference to promote the United t Religious rights and Raising a Generation Nations’ overarching goal of engendering of Peace - Rev. Moon told of an harmony among the world’s peoples, especially astonishing violation of human rights and through women’s leadership. The meeting took religious freedom in Japan in which judicial place at the Herradura Hotel in the beautiful and legislative authorities turn a blind natural surroundings of Costa Rica under the eye as members of minority religions are theme “Women’s Role in Leadership in the kidnapped and subjected to intensive faith 21st Century: Toward a Culture of Family breaking pressures. She also emphasized and Peace.” the need to invest in and raise the next The conference speakers and discussions generation of young women, nurturing among participants focused on practical and and building their positive self-images and innovative ways that women impact their leadership capacity, especially by being families, society and community for the better. good role models for them. Professor Lan Young Moon Park, WFWP t Buttressing the family - Ms. Sauerbrey International President, welcomed delegates by explained how the two-parent family is a saying, “The 21st century is the era of women. We have come to feel the limitations of male natural bulwark against crime, violence, leadership, which has led history until now, and war, because properly raised children become citizens of peace. only through its logic of power. Humanity today is in need of women’s leadership, which “We celebrate that women leaders in the has been described as “soft power”, based 21st century can be doctors, lawyers, business on more feminine qualities such as love and owners, and legislators,” Sauerbrey said. “But service, forgiveness and tolerance, sensitivity we should not lose sight of the fact that the and friendliness.” most important role, and the one that only she Among the women leaders attending the can fulfill, is that of mother and the center of conference were a current first lady (Ms. Kim the family. Your greatest power is the influence Simplis Barrow, wife of the prime minister you have on your children. The family is the of Belize) and three former first ladies (Ms. cradle of nations, and women rock the cradle.” Estrella Zeledon Lizano de Carazo, of Costa The conference concluded on January Rica; Ms. Graciela Rompani de Pacheco, of 22nd with an evening banquet. The banquet Uruguay; and Ms. Elizabeth A.de Calderon began with the “Bridge of Peace” ceremony, Sol from El Salvador), as well as national a signature observance of WFWPI. In this lawmakers, mayors, educators, the assistant to ceremony, ten pairs of women, representing the former First Lady of Chile, a representative reconciliation between Anglo and Latin of the president of Costa Rica, two daughters America, embraced on a white wooden bridge of former presidents, university presidents at the center of stage. As “Let There Be Peace and professors, directors of organizations and on Earth” played in the background, each foundations, three mayors (men were welcome pair of women walked one after the other as attendees) and Mayoresses from countries from opposite ends of the stage, met in the in the region. center, and embraced in tears of genuine union The two keynote speakers were Dorothy and friendship. Seven women also received Bush Koch, daughter of former U.S. President the WFWP “Woman ‌ of  Distinction” award George H.W. Bush; Rev. In Jin Moon, CEO for their outstanding accomplishments in the of Manhattan Center Studios and daughter area of media, education, women’s rights, family of WFWPI founder, Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon. values, and leadership in politics. Among the many other speakers from both The evening ended with lots of dancing the North and Latin Americas was Ms. Ellen and expressions of joy as delegates celebrated Sauerbrey, a former U.S. Assistant Secretary of womanhood, motherhood and life! State and ambassador to the UN Commission

Spring 2011 9

data, research and testimonies are needed as well in science and technology employment as legal mechanisms. – experiences from Israel. She identified traditional norms of gender segregation with women prefering social sciences and men inclined to technology. Now there are more opportunities caused by merging of technology and social and life sciences. She encouraged NGO leaders to build women’s self-efficacy, change curriculum to integrate science, technology and social science and provide incentives for policies that change social norms of gender roles. Prof. Akanisi Kedrayate Tabualevu of University of South Pacific, Fiji, presented Eliminating barriers to women’s participation in science and technology employment -- experiences from Fiji. Barriers for university women entering technological courses include: patriarchal society, religion, resources and prevalence of gender stereotypes. Fiji’s government has a plan for gender equality by 2015. Ms. Tabualevu emphasized woman role models in science are needed. For the panel, A Discussion on UN Women, speakers were Ms. Charlotte Bunch, Center for Women’s Global Leadership, Ms. Bani Dugal, Baha’i International Community and Ms. Rachel Harris, Women’s Environment and Development Organization (WEDO). Ms. Bunch stated that creation of UN Women will raise women’s voices, raise the level of financial support for women and establishes a structure for the UN to lead in the 21st century. Ms. Dugal explained that the GEAR (Gender

Trafficking , contd from pg. 2 crime. The General Assembly also recently Schools play an incredible role. They can launched the Global Plan of Action to Combat create an environment that is safe for the Trafficking in Persons. All of these are critical children to open up through storytelling and steps that will help put traffickers where they dramatization, educating about respect and belong — behind bars.” dignity for children, teaching respect for others’ After Secretary-General gave his remarks, feelings, democracy, etc. Moderator Kristof asked both Demi Moore Finally, collaboration and partnership and Ashton Kutcher what motivated them among like organizations can hasten progress to become involved in this issue. Ms. Moore toward the goal of ending violence against answered that they were watching a profile on children. Cambodia about girls being sold into slavery and felt strongly that they must respond. They took a trip to Cambodia for research and CSW NGO Consultation , contd from pg. 3 spoke with many people about the trafficking women’s access to and participation in science problem. Ashton recommended that we use and technology education and training, 3. social networks to educate people about the Eliminating barriers to women’s participation scope of the problem, strongly enforce existing in science and technology employment, 4. laws, hold men accountable and support the Elimination of all forms of discrimination and victims. Ashton became very emotional as he violence against the girl child. spoke about the rape of very young girls in Ms.Bachelet stressed essential issues for the fields of Cambodia. Moore and Kutcher UN Women to address: empowering women founded DNA – a foundation to raise awareness as negotiators, funding for national partners about human trafficking and help children who that is aligned with national action plans. Ms. have fallen victim to traffickers. Bachelet emphasized her mandate from the The panel proceeded to discuss the situation General Assembly to consult with civil society. of prostitutes and domestic slavery. Rani Hong She will appoint an NGO Advisory group to founder of the Tronie Foundation (promotes brief her on important issues and strengthen ties human trafficking education, policy change with NGOS. She concluded that empowering and helps trafficking victims) then gave her life women relies on cooperation and support from story as a victim of human trafficking which was all stakeholders. heart-wrenching. Ms. Rachel Lloyd, founder Dr. Kaosar Afsana, Associate Director, Equality Architecture Reform) proposal to of GEMS - Girls Educational and Mentoring Health Programme, BRAC Bangladesh shared UN Women offers a plan for civil society Services for prevention of sexual exploitation of best practices from the project, Mobile engagement with UN Women including the children and young women presented on the technologies helping poor urban and rural key points: 1). Establishment of NGO Liaison work of her organization. women. According to Dr. Afsana, in Bangladesh Units as focal points; 2). Establishment of a Following the panel discussion, the room MDGS on maternal health and child mortality civil society counsel; 3). Establishment of a was filled with emotion. Those present are on track, but there is unequal distribution Thematic Working Group; 4). Appointment of responded generously to the appeal to give to and access to safe drinking water. The mobile Independent Thematic Experts; 5). Creation of the fund. The first pledges to the Trust Fund technology, M-Health provides local women a dynamic forum and hearings during CSW and were made by the governments of Qatar, training on patient management and care, key UN events; 6). Full participation of NGOS Luxembourg, Egypt and Thailand, as well as emergency management, monitoring and at the UN Women Executive Board meetings. by Mr. Naguib Sawiris, Executive Chairman of supervision. It is a way to deliver healthcare (Access full proposal: www.gearcampaign.org) Orascom Telecom. Mr. Yury Fedotov, UNODC to rural villages via mobile phones. The Executive-Director expressed his gratitude to technology improves delivery of services and Ms. Rachel Harris explained the role these donors for taking the lead in making empowers women. of the GEAR campaign in the creation of pledges and for the wholehearted response of UN Women. Years of advocacy by GEAR The panel on education, science and Campaign’s network of over 300 women’s, those in attendance. technology was moderated by Ms. Mavic human rights, and social justice organizations Cabrera-Balleza, Co-chair of the NGO convinced UN member states to establish May I Ask? , contd from pg. 2 Consultation Planning Committee and UN Women. Civil society must continue International Coordinator, Global Network of involvement nationally and regionally, “to face dangers from their teachers and older Women Peace Builders. Eleanor Nwadinobi, ensure UN Women realizes its potential as a men. Many are forced into a “sex for grades” Medical Women’s International Association, powerful vehicle for advancing women’s rights”. situation. But the girls put themselves at risk if Nigeria, presented on the topic, Increasing (View toolkit for Civil Society: http://www. they come forward to report the crime. women’s access to and use of technology, wedo.org/wp-content/uploads/November- The situation of violence against children including more gender-responsive products. 2010-GEAR-Campaign-Toolkit.pdf) is very difficult to address because of lack of Ms. Shelley Canright, NASA, USA, spoke on data, documentation and lack of victims’ voices. Afternoon breakout sessions provided Increasing women’s access to and participation We need stronger laws and general legislation. delegates the opportunity to brainstorm about in science and technology education and We need to create safe environments for the panel topics. Consultation Day provided a training. Women and girls are lagging behind in victims to speak. valuable vision for WFWPI delegates and the technology education. She discussed initiatives There are more laws in place for victim opportunity to share best practices with other of U.S. Pres. Obama’s administration: Educate response but not enough measures in place for NGO leaders and empower one another to to Innovate Campaign and the White House prevention. We need to strengthen prevention create solutions to major issues that women counsel for Women and Girls. Ms. Miriam measures. How? Involve schools and curriculum, face from remote rural areas to negotiation Erez, Technion University Israel discussed religious groups, media, local governments and panels at the UN. Eliminating barriers to women’s participation civil society. Information sharing, tech support, 10 WFWPI-UN Newsletter

Slow Learners , contd from pg. 5 in the shadows or those who “cheat” like those who embrace the possibility of a strategy for freedom, justice and peace in the world. Each

Slow Learners , contd. on pg. 12

Poverty Eradication , contd from pg. 3 are illiterate, two thirds are women. People living in poverty confront persistent barriers to realizing an education.” nation comes to their review after submitting The statement by Mr. Sha Zukang, Under- a written response to a broad array of questions Secretary-General for Economic and Social about their human rights situation. The Office Affairs, Secretary-General for UN Conference of the High Commissioner for Human Rights on Sustainable Development delivered by Mr. (OHCHR) also submits a report on the Jomo Kwame Sundaram, Assistant Secretary- state which includes 1) relevant information General for Economic Development (UN from the local or regional office; 2) reports DESA), stressed that the multiple dimensions of submitted by NGOS; 3) national human rights poverty make it challenging. The fragile global institutions. The peer “troika”, chosen by economy and social tensions compounded lottery, chair the session and make an outcome by the employment crisis forced, “millions report listing recommendations to the nation of workers…into vulnerable employment.” under review. In a follow-up meeting, explains In addition, “a growing number of countries any reservations and can refuse compliance. have endorsed fiscal austerity measures, cutting So far, each state has committed to voluntary, resources for poverty reduction. At the same specific improvements. time warning signs show a new food crisis is emerging.” He emphasized the need to Ghana’s recommendation to Netherlands focus efforts on, “the most vulnerable groups, in their April 2010 review was to strengthen including youth, older persons, indigenous measures to increase participation by ethnic peoples and persons with disabilities.” He minority women in line with CEDAW. This added that countries in which poverty was was based on a report from women’s NGOS successfully reduced implemented programs of made to the OHCHR. The HRC encourages social protection, and highlighted the need to States to hold broad national consultations strengthen the family, which is the main source to prepare for their UPR. NGOS can urge of social protection in poorer countries. governments to hold consultations, raise awareness about them and participate. Through In his thorough summary of the previous this activism, government’s attention can day, Mr. Donald Lee, Chief, Social Perspective be drawn to particular issues or regions of on Development Branch, Division for Social concern. Involving NGOS early is beneficial Policy and Development, noted that in Africa, for governments, because they can hear and “anti-poverty programmes have brought address NGO concerns before they reach the reductions in the proportion of people living in international level. In this case, Netherlands extreme poverty. However, the absolute number responded with its 1001 Strengths Programme of poor people actually increased. African designed to encourage ethnic minority women economies must grow at a much faster rate for to participate in voluntary work, which provides a sustained period, and growth must be job opportunities for personal development and rich, inclusive and pro-poor.” The Secretariat participation, as a stepping stone to accessing stresses the importance of social protection to paid employment. The well thought out accomplish the goals for its affordability and its program in place in 25 municipalities was success in other countries. The strength of social described as a valuable best practice that other protection lies in the ability to reach deeply into

th WFWP International Leaders Workshop

October 11-14, 2010 ~ Seoul, South Korea

the structure of the society through services that, cut income poverty, reduced inequality and improved social conditions on a broad scale. In addition it is affordable and attainable even in the poorest areas. The afternoon session began with a presentation by keynote speaker, Ms. Ana Maldonado, Deputy Minister of Communal Economy, Minister of Communal Economy, Minister of People’s Power for Communes and Social Protection of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. She stated the attempt to achieve objectives of the Social Development Summit in Copenhagen and Millennium Development with “the current rate of compliance … will not be achieved until 200 years later, in the year 2215.” After this staggering fact the speaker added that although few countries can attain the goal in isolation, it is necessary for all countries and all people to benefit. It is vital to consider the rights of every citizen to services, it is not enough to simply consider them as consumers but rather take into account the full gamut of their human rights. Representatives from member states and civil society joined the discussion through a question and answer session. The impetus of social protection as a means towards eradicating poverty was apparent. The organizations support the effort for human rights of each individual in all situations particularly vulnerable groups; women, children, adolescents, people with disabilities, indigenous populations. Ms. Maldonado concluded with a quote from the sixth session of the General Assembly, “the equity, sovereign equality, interdependence, mutual interest and cooperation among all States, whatever their economic and social systems, correcting the inequalities and repairing the injustices among developed and developing countries, thus assuring present and future generations, peace, justice and economic and social development is steadily accelerating.”

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President, Institute for Global Health of Barcelona; Mr. Ted Turner, Founder, UN Foundation; Ms. Geena Davis, Academy Award Since 1994 WFWP has dispatched volunteers worldwide, to implement development winner, Founder, Geena Davis Institute on assistance projects based on local needs. Gender in the Media; Ms. Rakhi Sahi, Former Support the efforts of Commander, all female Formed Police Unit, WFWP volunteers worldwide: UN Mission in Liberia. Video messages from Ms. Victoria Justice, Ms. Nicole Kidman and Women’s Federation for World Peace International Shakira were also shown. A beautiful grand 4 West 43rd Street finale debut of the UN Women theme song, New York, NY 10036, USA “One Woman” was performed by Graham Lyle, (Make checks payable to WFWP International) Clay, Beth Blatt and others backed by the UN International School Choir. It was a glorious night of hope to launch this new UN entity for women and girls worldwide, For more information about projects, see Biennial Reports at www.wfwp.org UN Women . (View WFWPI Joint NGO Statement to the 55th CSW at www.wfwp.org) 55th CSW , contd from pg. 3 freedom from violence; Education and training; Slow Learners , contd from pg. 11 Enterprise development, supply chain and and participation, ending violence against governments and NGOS can implement. marketing practices; Community leadership women, strengthening implementation of the While the Review is an ongoing process and engagement; Transparency, measuring women, peace and security agenda, enhancing among member states and NGOS participating and reporting. Participants broke into small, women’s economic empowerment and making in the sessions, the actual role of NGOS is diverse groups to discuss obstacles to women’s gender equality priorities central to national, fluctuating. NGOS are well served by the equal participation in the economic life of their local and sectoral planning and budgeting. OHCHRS regular updates on extranet and countries, priority actions and policies needed There was a rich, varied menu of parallel e-mail. Regular briefings by the President of the in the private sector and how to work to forward events available each day. A strong and visible HRC for NGOS are also helpful. Yet questions the women’s empowerment principles at home. contingent of girls and young women were in remain about several other areas like strict NGO Each small group reported on conclusions. The attendance. The World Association for Girl speaking time limits at sessions. While trying to importance of affordable quality childcare, Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGS) sponsored improve this situation and until improvements availability of professional jobs, family friendly a parallel event jointly with Soroptomists are obtained, NGOS seek avenues within the employment policies, access to education and International. High school girls were eloquent HRC including the UPR to submit information assets, affordability of education and healthcare panelists offering their personal experiences on on countries, communicate voices of victims, were some of the issues reported. access to science and technology education, highlight violations and ask for concrete action access to information about science and math and follow-up on recommendations of Special career pathways, their images of themselves with Procedures, Treaty Bodies etc. It is important regard to these pathways, their opportunities that the voice of NGOS be heard. and experiences to exert leadership and more. Before a complete UPR round, no Another parallel event highlight, on the conclusion can be drawn regarding success of theme of Best Practices in STEM (Science the UPR mechanism, but clearly where there Technology, Engineering and Math) Education is sincere effort, the beauty of the system is On the eve of commemoration of the 100th at the Middle School level, offered a group of revealed. The UPR naturally reinforces work International Women’s Day, the official launch 8th grade girls as panelists. These girls had the of the Committee on the Rights of the Child of UN Women was a star studded affair held good fortune to participate in a special program (CRC), the Committee on the Elimination of on the evening of February 24th in the General at the A Street School in Newark, New Jersey Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and Assembly Hall. I was in my seat well before the funded by U.S. Satellite and the Endeavor contributes to greater inter-agency coordination event began and was very touched to see two Project (NASA). The girls designed and built within the UN. When states refuse, or when young girls age ten or eleven skipping across a full size rowboat, learning about blueprints, groups of states plot to defend one another’s the floor of the General Assembly hall like they the importance of careful measurement when unrighteousness there is a hole in the system. owned it, like it was their personal playground. constructing, use of power tools such as saws, What remains to be seen is will the advantages Perhaps there had been a scene like this drills and sanders. They were enthusiastic of this unique system, over time, entice even before but my sense was it represented a new about their work and accomplishment. As they the slow learners? beginning, and without a doubt, the launch of told the story, they told of facing challenges UN Women represents a new beginning in the and solving problems. Surmounting these way that women and their primary concerns are challenges had created a stronger sense of April 10: 19th WFWP Anniversary  served by the UN. confidence in their capacity to create and do.  May 15: International Day of Speakers at the launch included H.E. The soon to be young women talked excitedly Families Mr. Joseph Deiss, President of the General about their aspirations for their futures. Assembly; H.E. Mr. Ban Ki-moon, Secretary  Historically, UNIFEM (now part of the July 4-29: ECOSOC Substantive General of the United Nations; Ms. Michelle new UN Women ) hosts wonderful interactive Session in Geneva Bachelet, Under Secretary General and parallel events. This year was no exception. Aug. 12: International Youth Day  Exexutive Director, UN Women ; Ms. Bandana One event presented Women’s Empowerment Rana, President of Saathi, and NGO in Nepal  Sep. 3-5: 64th DPI/NGO Principles, formulated by UNIFEM and UN (and Gender Equality Architecture Reform Conference in Bonn, Global Compact to guide businesses on how activist); H.E. Ms. U. Joy Ogwu, Permanent Germany to empower women in their organizations. Representative of the Federal Republic of These principles are: Leadership promotes Oct . WFWP 12th Int’l Leaders  Nigeria, President, UN Women Executive Gender Equality; Equal Opportunity, Inclusion Workshop Board; H.R.H. Princess Cristina of Spain, and Nondiscrimination; Health, safety and

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