#Netherlands #The Hague #International Women's Peace #Bertha von Suttner

The Return of the International Women's Peace Conference to The Hague

In a momentous return, The Hague is set to host the International Women's Peace Conference on December 9-10, 2025. This landmark event commemorates the original gathering held over a century ago in 1915, reminding us of the enduring struggle for women's presence in peacebuilding and conflict resolution. The city is once again positioning itself as a central stage for discussions around the significant role women play in fostering peaceful societies.

The upcoming conference serves a dual purpose: to celebrate the power of women's voices in addressing global conflicts and to advocate for the implementation of UN Resolution 1325. This influential resolution emphasizes the critical role that women play in peace processes, affirming their necessity in making decisions that affect their futures and the stability of nations.

Under the guidance of Mrs. Hélène Pichon, the Director of Alliance Française The Hague, the event will pull together a vast coalition of supporters. Notable partners include the Municipality of The Hague, representatives from the United Nations, UN Women, academic authorities from various global universities, and many civil society members dedicated to the cause of peace.

The conference’s theme, Women and Peace, in the footsteps of Bertha von Suttner, not only pays homage to the 1915 gathering but also signifies the ongoing relevance of women's contributions to international reconciliation efforts. Bertha von Suttner, an influential advocate for peace and women's rights, set a precedent for the engagement of women in humanitarian efforts. As a leading figure in peace activism, her legacy continues to inspire new generations.

Noteworthy at the event will be the awarding of the Bertha von Suttner Peace Prize, which reflects the commitment to advancing peace initiatives. This prestigious acknowledgment, which traditionally held its celebrations in Georgia, will highlight extraordinary individuals who have contributed to the promotion of peace and reconciliation globally.

Jan van Zanen, the Mayor of The Hague, emphasized the importance of women's voices in peace dialogues, stating, “Peace is stronger when women are at the table.” His remarks underscore the vital contribution women make not only in dialogue but also in shaping just and fair policies.

Hélène Pichon further articulated the enthusiasm surrounding the conference. She noted, “The support for this conference has been remarkable,” highlighting the collaborative efforts of institutional sponsors, private contributors, and international scholars in bringing this initiative to fruition. Such wide-ranging support illustrates a global commitment to fostering peace and empowering women in leadership roles.

The significance of the International Women's Peace Conference extends beyond merely commemorating a historical event. It serves as a beacon for global movements advocating for gender equality, peace, and justice in a world often marred by conflict. Participants can expect to engage in enriching discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities, sharing innovative ideas and best practices on achieving these goals.

As the world looks towards December 2025, the conference promises to revitalize discussions on women’s leadership in peace, ensuring that their voices are amplified in transforming challenges into collaborative solutions. With increasing recognition of the integral role women must play in peacebuilding, the International Women's Peace Conference in The Hague stands to reaffirm the imperative that women's involvement is essential for sustainable peace.

In conclusion, this reconvening of the International Women's Peace Conference not only resonates with the past; it also aims to catalyze present efforts and inspire future generations. The commitment to women’s participation in peace processes not only enriches outcomes but also fosters a more inclusive, peaceful, and just world for all.