World’s Largest Women’s Peace Conference Highlights Role of Female Leadership

Addis Ababa, September 22, 2025 (FMC) – Women leaders from conflict zones and countries around the world gathered in Cheongju, South Korea, for the 2025 International Women’s Peace Conference, organized by the International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG).

Held on September 19 under the theme “Beyond Conflict: Women’s Peace Leadership toward Hope and Recovery,” the event brought together 800 participants from 44 countries, including ministers and senior officials from Mali, Yemen, and Libya.

Speakers emphasized that women are not merely victims of conflict but key drivers of recovery, resilience, and sustainable peace. Key participants included Hon. Aisha Al-Mahdi Shalabi, Member of Libya’s National Assembly; Bouaré Bintou Founé Samaké, former Minister of Mali; Dr. Faiza Abdulraqeb Sallam of Yemen; and Mrs. Kim Simplis Barrow, former First Lady of Belize.

The conference highlighted practical examples of women-led peace initiatives, from transforming conflict-affected communities in the Philippines to promoting human rights and feminist diplomacy in Mongolia. Sessions also focused on peace education, institutional frameworks for sustainable peace, and women’s engagement in divided nations and conflict zones.

Following the conference, a Peace Family Workshop brought together 90 IWPG members to discuss concrete strategies and future action plans. Cultural activities, including the 7th International Loving-Peace Art Competition and the Peace Culture Lounge, provided international guests with exposure to traditional Korean culture.

Chairwoman Na Yeong Jeon of IWPG said the event offered a platform for women worldwide to unite, share experiences, and advance actionable steps toward lasting peace. The conference was interpreted into six languages and livestreamed in two additional languages.

IWPG, a UN-registered NGO with branches in 122 countries and partnerships with over 800 organizations, works to build peace networks, promote peace education, and support the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW).