For 10 years, Women Wage Peace (Israeli) and Women of the Sun (Palestinian) have been working towards peace between Israel and Palestine, both separately and in partnership – see the Mothers' Call which sets out their joint desire for a peaceful resolution. They have been nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize because of their efforts, which – even if they do not win – will highlight their efforts to end conflict. This is a great example of women working together across borders for peace.

Helene Ritchie, the current New Zealand President of the International Council of Jewish Women (ICJW) and the Vice President of the Asia-Pacific region, has similarly made a commitment to pursuing peace in the Middle East during her presidential term. The International Council of Jewish Women, which has 35 member countries, holds an annual conference in May. Last year in Bratislava, Helene spoke about the work of the two organisations Women Wage Peace and Women of the Sun. This year, Helene is advocating for ICJW to partner with and support these two organisations. She is working towards presenting such a proposal for discussion at this May’s ICJW in Paris, through discussions with the two organisations and the President of ICJW.

NCWNZ wishes Helene and the New Zealand ICJW all the best for success in their endeavours to bring more women together to support a peaceful resolution.

To read more articles from The Circular (January-February 2025) issue 650, click on the tag below.