Meg's Update: Oct. 25th: Res. 1325 Peace Fair

Today's events were many and varied. We viewed two films entitled, "Shooting Poverty" showing how illegal arms trade affects people living in poverty; in Brazil, through organized crime, and gang violence. In Burundi, small arms, and especially powerful and far reaching grenades easily obtained through the Congo, impact an entire population, especially the disadvantaged poor. In a word, the films made graphic, 'we are at war with weapons' freely obtained and used. UNDP launched the next panel; Cora Weiss, from the Hague Appeal for Peace, spoke passionately about what still must be done by countries in fulfilling committments made in 2000. Ambassador Chowdhury, past president of the UN Security Council when this resolution was passed, spoke of the truth that full participation of women in power structures is essential for ongoing peace and security. An interesting part of the program was featured in cyberdialogue with women from Afghanistan, Burundi, and Sierra Leone, sharing their activities in fostering peace and security in their respective countries. The last program, held at the Church Centre, featured Women Peace Activists, sharing experiences.