Gender Equality group statement on the 8th of March

There can be no lasting peace without women.

On this International Women’s Day, we stand with all women and girls who are suffering in conflict zones. In a world where the law of power still outweighs the power of law, women continue to face the greatest impact of war—yet their voices remain largely absent from peace negotiations.

A growing body of evidence shows that when women participate meaningfully in peace negotiations—as mediators, negotiators, signatories, or civil society representatives—peace agreements become more durable, more inclusive, and more stable. 

Research demonstrates that peace agreements involving women are 20% more likely to last at least two years and 35% more likely to endure for 15 years or more. When women have real influence at the negotiating table, agreements are almost always reached and implemented more effectively. Their inclusion also significantly reduces the risk of conflict recurrence—by up to 37% when women’s groups and UN leadership are both involved. 

Women broaden peace negotiations beyond short‑term power dynamics, bringing essential perspectives on human rights, political reform, community reconciliation, economic recovery, and long‑term stability. 

On March 8th, we affirm a simple but powerful truth: there can be no lasting peace without women.

- Christa Schweng, President of the EESC Equality Group