Education

The Information Society

Human Security and Peace

Cross Cutting Issues

Action Tools

Resources

Programme Leaflet [PDF version Oct. 2004] Programme Leaflet [WORD version] Oct 2004

The Commission on the Social Dimension on Globalization in its report presented to the International Labour Organization (ILO) on 24 February 2004 called for "a process of globalization with a strong social dimension based on universally shared values, and respect for human rights and individual dignity; one that is fair, inclusive, democratically governed and provides opportunities and tangible benefits for all countries and people." For this to be achieved, women must play an active role in working for change.

Globalization has created new opportunities, challenges and problems many of which have resulted in dramatic changes for people and societies. An organization like IFUW, enriched by a diversity of cross cultural exchanges and with a common concern for inclusion and democracy, needs to examine the emerging trends and seek solutions to the problems created in this globalized world by poverty, unemployment, economic migration, threats to the global environment, fast spreading epidemics, armed conflicts both local, national and international, terrorism and cybercrime.

IFUW has identified three key areas for action: Education, the Information Society, and Human Security & Peace.

IFUW is committed to the promotion of lifelong education of women and girls to enable them to reach their full potential. A key to the achievement of this purpose is the development by every nation of an inclusive and participative education policy that is committed to removing the social, cultural and economic barriers that prevent every girl from assuming her place as a contributing member of society.

IFUW members also believe that higher education and lifelong learning should be accessible to all. Not only does this provide economic gain for a country but it is also the key for women to reach positions of power and decision making across all sectors of society, while contributing to the strengthening of their families. Closely associated with education in the 21st century is the contribution information and communication technologies can bring to science, culture, the building of inclusive, knowledge societies and the creation of networks among people.

Since its inception IFUW has advocated for peace, justice and equality. By safeguarding cultural diversity, ensuring security in all aspects of life, encouraging dialogue among cultures and sharing knowledge in an era of globalization, IFUW members can contribute to peace and human development.

TAKE ACTION:
Each of the key themes is presented in a separate section. Click on one of the side links for an outline of the issues, suggestions for actions that can lead to change, and links to additional resources. Activities may take the form of individual study or research, a branch or club project or a national nederation or association (NFA) study and/or research project. These might involve advocacy efforts to impact or monitor your government's policies and actions related to these issues. Branches or NFAs might also work together with other non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to develop partnerships and build on one another's knowledge and experience.

By encouraging and supporting study, research, projects and other action around these themes and by working in close partnership with one another, with other NGOs, the private sector and with governments IFUW members and other women throughout the world can be Agents for Change.