CSW 56th Session's Side Events

Arab Spring: Voices of WomenFebruary 27, 2012 - Today, women share the center stage with men in the Arab Spring. As dictators toppled and new governments were established, women made themselves the focal point of turbulent yet revolutionary times. With new constitutions and cultural shifts under way in the Middle East, the question has turned to the role of women in these new societies. Where do they fit within the reconstructed political structures of society? How do they participate as equals? This panel articulated the vision of Arab women as well as the initiative necessary to achieve equal participation among men and women in the Arab world.

February 28, 2012 - Reconciliation serves as a vital tool, to encourage the empowerment of rural women and help strengthen their role in society.  By incorporating poor communities into existing social and political structures, rural women can reduce their dependency and manipulate opportunities to thrive in their respective societies.  Reconciliation will certainly affect the living conditions and well-being of women and girls in these communities for the better.The ambitious goal of eradicating poverty urges us to assume a global perspective as global citizens in pursuit of this end.  The speaker for the event introduced her practical experience with respect to existing projects to enlighten attendees on the subject matter.   

February 29, 2012 - Human trafficking has been deemed modern-day slavery and has emerged as one of the world’s most expansive and enigmatic global phenomena of the 21^st century.  It has been referred to as a “Shared Global Shame” since it affects all nations and has yet to be stopped despite aggressive international efforts.  As international awareness of this issue has increased, efforts by both the governmental and non-governmental sectors have mounted.  This panel discussion examined all forms of human trafficking, including sex trafficking, domestic servitude and forced labor and explored the lessons learned as the world continues to move forward in its fight against human trafficking.

March 1, 2012 - USFMEP hosted its annual inter-faith dialogue between Jewish, Muslim and Christian women.  USFMEP believes that it is fundamental to bring together women of different faiths to facilitate understandingand tolerance among the varied faiths of the world, as women play a key role in the fight toward harmony and peaceful existence.  During the course of this event, the women discussed their visions on how to eradicate religious intolerance and discrimination; two of the main sources of religious violence.  Dialogue is crucial in strengthening relations and building acceptance, thereby preventing violent uprising among religious groups.

More Readings