Australia

Workshop: Women Building Peace and Security in and for Australia
At a national Women's Constitutional Convention in Canberra (Australia), WILPF sponsored a workshop on Security Council Resolution 1325. For many present, it was the first time they had heard about this historic resolution. Clearly there is significant work to be done to both disseminate information and to engage more women in the process.

Aim: An opportunity to learn about and become involved in a worldwide campaign sponsored by the UN to involve, support and protect women more fully in every aspect of the peace process which is based on UN Security Council Resolution 1325.

Workshop recommendations:

1. Define what does/could Resolution 1325 mean for women at the grassroots, regionally and nationally. Can it be used as an advocacy tool?

2. Identify resources, develop and disseminate [via women’s networks; libraries; unions; community organisations and adult education services] an Information Kit to foster greater public awareness of Resolution 1325.

3. Work with WRANA and share information/link into actions around Shadow Report to CEDAW campaign.

4. Target policy and decision makers ( including aspiring candidates) at local, state and federal levels - educate them on UN Conventions, treaties & resolutions and their ongoing accountability for implementation and monitoring.

5. In the first instance, write to the Australian government (as UN member state), via respective federal Minister/s seeking feedback as to action the Government intends to take with regard to Resolution 1325; particularly the participation of women in decision-making and peace processes. Follow up with letters to all elected members of state, territory and federal legislatures.

WILPF-ACT has applied to do another workshop around SC R1325 at the Townsville International Women's Conference [http://www.tiwc.asn.au] to be held in North Qld from 3-7 July. Delegates are coming from most Asia & Pacific countries as well as from many indigenous ( First Nation) communities.