Conciliation Resources is looking for contributions for a special collection of stories, which will document the experiences and ideas of Pacific Island peacebuilders working on dealing with the legacies of past conflict in the region. 

Everyone should have the chance to shape their future; to make peace possible. But to do this we need to ensure everyone has equitable access to peace. Peace that is inclusive, acknowledges the diversity of those affected by conflict and doesn’t discriminate. This International Women’s Day, we’re shining a light on the diversity of women bridging religious, ethnic and political divides to make peace possible. Because when we embrace equity, we can embrace peace.

In the run up to the 25th anniversary of UN Security Council 1325, the UK has launched its fifth National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security. Though a positive step, the government must take an ambitious approach to implementation if it wants to make genuine progress towards peace and gender equality. 

Leading figures in the transition to a political process in the Bangsamoro, in the Philippines, visited the United Kingdom in February, to learn from key politicians and peacemakers in the Northern Ireland peace process. 

On 25 February, Nigerians across the country voted for a president, vice-president and National Assembly representatives, and will later vote for state governors. Our Nigerian partners have been working to encourage peace and participation in the, historically volatile, election process.

For peace to last, the views and experiences of everyone impacted by conflict, must be included in finding solutions. But too often, peace initiatives centre around a small group of elites. The needs, values and potential contribution of large segments of society are overlooked. Including them in building peace is critical.