Today, the Brookings Institution held a panel discussion on what role women play in conflict and disaster situations. Nearly three months ago, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton was quoted saying "when we think about peacemaking, which is, after all, one of the critical tasks of any of us in international security, [...] there are not enough women at the table, not enough women's voices being heard." The struggle to include women in peace negotiations still stands.

The panel unanimously agreed that women play a huge role in conflict situations; whether it involves the importance of including more women in peace negotiations or the severity of gender based violence during conflict and how it affects women and communities. The best way to combat these offenses is to include women in all forms of conflict resolution.

Yesterday Citizens for Global Solutions joined human rights advocates from all over D.C. and the world for the 2011 Annual Human Rights Luncheon hosted by the United Nations Association of the National Capitol Area.  Held in the beautiful Cannon House Caucus Room, the event was an inspiring reminder of what true dedication to a cause can produce - just in time for International Human Rights day this Saturday!

The luncheon was in honor of many long-time human rights advocates.  The event paid tribute to Richard Griffs, an extremely active UNA-NCA member and the Chair of the Human Rights Committee, who sadly passed away earlier this week.  He was the "force behind the Annual Human Rights Luncheon," and it was clear that he will be sorely missed both at the UNA-NCA and in the field of human rights. 

On Thursday, October 6, 2011 the International Center for Research on Women (ICRW) conducted the Insights to Action: Solutions to Child Marriage event highlighting an international crime issue that has been plaguing our global community for decades.  Child marriage is a harmful traditional practice that denies 10 million girls a year their rights to health, education and security.  Every day, more than 25,000 girls are married before they turn 18, with little if any say in the decision.  That's 19 girls a minute denied their voice.  Insights To action: Solutions to Child Marriage by the International Center for Research on Women exposed a problem swept under the rug by the global community for years.  In recent years, national and international communities have begun to increasingly recognize child marriage as a serious issue, as it is a violation of girls' human rights and is a hindrance to key development outcomes.  The highest rates of child marriage

Yesterday, I attended a fascinating presentation and film screening at the State Department.  The film, Burma Soldier, tells the story of Myo Myint, whose journey included fighting as a soldier for the Burmese government; witnessing atrocities committed against civilians; becoming an advocate for Democracy in Burma (officially Myanmar); being detained, held in captivity, and tortured; and finally, joining his brother in America.  The film is difficult to watch with graphic footage and disturbing recollections, but it is also stirring as one can't help but be inspired by Mr. Myint in his struggle for his people.