Glossary

8.1 Women's peace movements

11 min read•august 20, 2024

Women's peace movements emerged in the early 20th century as a response to war and militarization. Influenced by suffragist movements and women's clubs, these activists fought for political rights and social equality while advocating for peace.

These movements employed various strategies, from grassroots organizing to public demonstrations. Despite facing challenges like marginalization and resistance, women's peace organizations have made significant contributions to anti-war discourse and international peace efforts, empowering women activists worldwide.

Origins of women's peace movements

  • Women's peace movements emerged in the early 20th century as a response to the devastating effects of war and the growing militarization of society
  • These movements were deeply influenced by the suffragist movements of the time, which had already mobilized women to fight for their political rights and social equality
  • Women's clubs, which had been established in the late 19th century as a way for women to engage in social and cultural activities, also played a significant role in the development of women's peace movements by providing a platform for women to discuss and organize around issues of war and peace

Early 20th century activism

Top images from around the web for Early 20th century activism

  • Women's Peace Petition Memorial presented at the White Ho… | Flickr View original

    Is this image relevant?

  • Women’s Movements | HIST 1302: US after 1877 View original

    Is this image relevant?

  • Women's Peace Petition Memorial presented at the White Ho… | Flickr View original

    Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for Early 20th century activism

  • Women's Peace Petition Memorial presented at the White Ho… | Flickr View original

    Is this image relevant?

  • Women’s Movements | HIST 1302: US after 1877 View original

    Is this image relevant?

  • Women's Peace Petition Memorial presented at the White Ho… | Flickr View original

    Is this image relevant?

1 of 3
  • The outbreak of World War I in 1914 galvanized women activists around the world to speak out against the war and advocate for peace
  • In 1915, a group of women from Europe and North America met in The Hague, Netherlands, to discuss ways to end the war and prevent future conflicts, leading to the formation of the (WILPF)
  • Other notable early 20th century women's peace activists include Jane Addams, who founded the in the United States, and Rosika Schwimmer, who helped organize the International Committee of Women for Permanent Peace

Influence of suffragist movements

  • The suffragist movements of the late 19th and early 20th centuries had a significant impact on the development of women's peace movements
  • Many suffragists, such as Carrie Chapman Catt and Emmeline Pethick-Lawrence, were also active in the peace movement, seeing the two struggles as interconnected
  • The organizational skills and networks developed through the suffragist movements were instrumental in mobilizing women for peace activism

Role of women's clubs

  • Women's clubs, which had been established in the late 19th century as a way for women to engage in social and cultural activities, played a key role in the development of women's peace movements
  • These clubs provided a space for women to discuss issues of war and peace, and to organize campaigns and initiatives to promote peace
  • For example, the Women's Club of Louisville, Kentucky, established a Peace Committee in 1914 to educate the public about the causes and consequences of war, and to advocate for peaceful solutions to international conflicts

Goals of women's peace movements

  • Women's peace movements have historically been driven by a range of goals and objectives, all centered around the promotion of peace and the rejection of war and militarism
  • These goals have evolved over time in response to changing political and social contexts, but have consistently emphasized the need for nonviolent conflict resolution, disarmament, and social justice

Opposition to militarism

  • One of the primary goals of women's peace movements has been to challenge and resist the militarization of society, which is seen as a root cause of war and conflict
  • This has involved critiquing the glorification of military power and the diversion of resources away from social welfare and towards military spending
  • Women peace activists have also sought to expose the gendered dimensions of militarism, highlighting how women are disproportionately affected by war and military violence

Promotion of nonviolent conflict resolution

  • Women's peace movements have consistently advocated for the use of nonviolent methods to resolve conflicts at both the interpersonal and international levels
  • This has included promoting dialogue, mediation, and diplomacy as alternatives to military force, and emphasizing the importance of addressing the root causes of conflict, such as poverty, inequality, and human rights abuses
  • Women peace activists have also worked to develop and promote nonviolent resistance strategies, such as strikes, boycotts, and civil disobedience

Advocacy for disarmament

  • Disarmament has been a key goal of women's peace movements, particularly in the context of the nuclear arms race of the Cold War era
  • Women peace activists have argued that the proliferation of weapons, especially weapons of mass destruction, poses an existential threat to humanity and the planet
  • They have campaigned for the reduction and elimination of military arsenals, and have worked to raise awareness about the human and environmental costs of the arms trade

Focus on social justice issues

  • Women's peace movements have often framed their activism in terms of broader struggles for social justice, recognizing the interconnections between war, poverty, racism, and other forms of oppression
  • They have sought to address the structural inequalities and power imbalances that contribute to conflict and violence, and have emphasized the need for inclusive, participatory approaches to peacebuilding
  • This has involved building alliances with other social justice movements, such as the civil rights movement, the anti-apartheid movement, and the environmental movement

Strategies and tactics

  • Women's peace movements have employed a wide range of strategies and tactics to advance their goals and bring attention to their cause
  • These have included grassroots organizing, public demonstrations and protests, lobbying and political pressure, and education and awareness campaigns

Grassroots organizing

  • Grassroots organizing has been a key strategy of women's peace movements, involving the mobilization of women at the local level to build support for peace and challenge militarism
  • This has included forming local peace groups and coalitions, organizing community events and forums, and engaging in direct action campaigns (sit-ins, occupations)
  • Women peace activists have also worked to build transnational networks and solidarity movements, connecting with women in other countries to share strategies and coordinate actions

Public demonstrations and protests

  • Public demonstrations and protests have been a highly visible tactic used by women's peace movements to raise awareness and generate public support for their cause
  • These have ranged from small-scale vigils and pickets to large-scale marches and rallies, often timed to coincide with significant events or anniversaries (International Women's Day, Hiroshima Day)
  • Women peace activists have also used creative forms of protest, such as the "Women in Black" movement, in which women dress in black and stand silently in public spaces to mourn the victims of war and violence

Lobbying and political pressure

  • Women's peace movements have sought to influence policy and decision-making through lobbying and political pressure at the local, national, and international levels
  • This has involved meeting with elected officials, testifying at hearings and commissions, and submitting petitions and open letters
  • Women peace activists have also run for political office themselves, seeking to bring a feminist and anti-militarist perspective to government
  • They have worked to hold governments and international bodies accountable to their commitments to peace and human rights, using tools such as shadow reports and citizen tribunals

Education and awareness campaigns

  • Education and awareness campaigns have been a critical component of women's peace activism, aimed at shifting public opinion and building a culture of peace
  • This has included producing and distributing educational materials (pamphlets, films, social media content), organizing teach-ins and workshops, and engaging with the media
  • Women peace activists have sought to challenge dominant narratives about war and security, and to amplify the voices and experiences of those most affected by conflict and militarism
  • They have also worked to promote peace education in schools and universities, advocating for the inclusion of conflict resolution and nonviolence training in curricula

Prominent women's peace organizations

  • Women's peace movements have given rise to a number of prominent organizations that have played key roles in advocating for peace and challenging militarism at the national and international levels
  • These organizations have varied in their specific focus and tactics, but have all been driven by a commitment to women's leadership in the struggle for peace and justice

Women's International League for Peace and Freedom (WILPF)

  • Founded in 1915, WILPF is the oldest international women's peace organization, with national sections in over 40 countries
  • WILPF's mission is to bring together women from around the world to work for peace by non-violent means and to promote political, economic and social justice for all
  • The organization has been involved in a wide range of campaigns and initiatives, including advocating for disarmament, promoting women's participation in peace processes, and challenging the militarization of society
  • WILPF has consultative status with the United Nations and has been instrumental in shaping international policies and agreements related to peace and security

Women Strike for Peace (WSP)

  • WSP was a prominent women's peace organization active in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s, at the height of the Cold War and the Vietnam War
  • The group was founded in 1961 by a group of women in Washington, D.C., who were concerned about the nuclear arms race and the threat of nuclear war
  • WSP organized a series of nationwide strikes and demonstrations, including the "Women's Strike for Peace" in 1961, which involved an estimated 50,000 women across the country
  • The group's tactics included lobbying members of Congress, staging protests and vigils, and organizing educational campaigns to raise awareness about the dangers of nuclear weapons

Code Pink: Women for Peace

  • Code Pink is a women-led grassroots organization that works to end U.S. wars and militarism, support peace and human rights initiatives, and redirect resources into healthcare, education, and other life-affirming programs
  • Founded in 2002 in response to the U.S. invasion of Iraq, Code Pink has become known for its creative and confrontational tactics, such as disrupting congressional hearings and presidential speeches
  • The group has also been involved in a number of international solidarity campaigns, including supporting Palestinian rights and opposing U.S. intervention in Venezuela
  • Code Pink has been a vocal critic of the U.S. military-industrial complex and has worked to expose the human and financial costs of war

Mothers for Peace

  • is a grassroots organization that was founded in 1969 in San Luis Obispo, California, to oppose the Vietnam War and advocate for peace and social justice
  • The group has since expanded its focus to include a range of issues, including nuclear disarmament, environmental protection, and human rights
  • Mothers for Peace has been involved in a number of high-profile campaigns, including opposing the construction of the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant in California and supporting the nuclear freeze movement of the 1980s
  • The organization has also worked to promote peace education and has developed a range of educational materials and programs for use in schools and community settings

Challenges faced by women's peace movements

  • Despite their significant contributions to the struggle for peace and justice, women's peace movements have faced a number of challenges and obstacles over the years
  • These have included marginalization and dismissal by mainstream political and social institutions, resistance from pro-war factions, and the ongoing struggle to balance gender roles and activism

Marginalization and dismissal

  • Women's peace movements have often been marginalized and dismissed by mainstream political and social institutions, which have tended to view women's activism as less legitimate or important than men's
  • This has been particularly true in the realm of international relations and security policy, where women's voices and perspectives have historically been underrepresented and undervalued
  • Women peace activists have also faced criticism and backlash from those who view their activism as naive, idealistic, or even unpatriotic

Balancing gender roles and activism

  • Women peace activists have often struggled to balance their roles as mothers, wives, and caregivers with their activism and political work
  • This has been particularly challenging in contexts where traditional gender roles and expectations are deeply entrenched, and where women's participation in public life is limited or discouraged
  • Women peace activists have also faced criticism and judgment from within their own communities and families, who may view their activism as a threat to traditional gender norms and family structures

Resistance from pro-war factions

  • Women's peace movements have often faced strong resistance and opposition from pro-war factions, including governments, military institutions, and nationalist groups
  • These factions have sought to discredit and undermine women's peace activism, often by portraying it as unpatriotic, subversive, or even treasonous
  • Women peace activists have also faced violence and repression from state and non-state actors, including harassment, arrest, and even assassination

Maintaining momentum and unity

  • Women's peace movements have sometimes struggled to maintain momentum and unity over time, particularly in the face of political and social upheaval, and the ebb and flow of public attention and support
  • The diversity of women's experiences and perspectives has also posed challenges for building and sustaining a unified movement, as different groups of women may have different priorities and strategies for achieving peace
  • Women peace activists have had to navigate complex power dynamics and tensions within their own movements, including issues of race, class, and nationality, in order to build effective coalitions and alliances

Impact and legacy

  • Despite the challenges they have faced, women's peace movements have had a significant impact on the struggle for peace and justice, both historically and in the present day
  • They have made important contributions to anti-war discourse, influenced international peace efforts, empowered women activists, and demonstrated the ongoing relevance of feminist perspectives in contemporary conflicts

Contributions to anti-war discourse

  • Women's peace movements have played a key role in shaping anti-war discourse and challenging dominant narratives about war, security, and militarism
  • They have brought attention to the gendered dimensions of war and conflict, highlighting the disproportionate impact of violence on women and girls, and the ways in which militarism is rooted in patriarchal power structures
  • Women peace activists have also emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of conflict, such as poverty, inequality, and social injustice, rather than relying solely on military solutions
  • Through their writings, speeches, and public actions, women peace activists have helped to shift public opinion and build support for peaceful alternatives to war

Influence on international peace efforts

  • Women's peace movements have had a significant influence on international peace efforts, particularly through their for the inclusion of women's voices and perspectives in peace processes and negotiations
  • They have worked to ensure that women's rights and needs are addressed in peace agreements and post-conflict reconstruction efforts, and have pushed for greater accountability for crimes committed against women during war
  • Women peace activists have also been instrumental in the development of international norms and standards related to women, peace, and security, such as UN Security Council Resolution 1325, which recognizes the important role of women in peacebuilding and conflict resolution

Empowerment of women activists

  • Women's peace movements have played a crucial role in empowering women activists and building women's leadership in the struggle for peace and justice
  • Through their involvement in peace activism, women have gained skills and experience in organizing, advocacy, and political engagement, which they have been able to apply in other areas of their lives and work
  • Women's peace movements have also provided a space for women to come together, share their experiences and knowledge, and build solidarity and support networks across national and cultural boundaries

Ongoing relevance in contemporary conflicts

  • The lessons and strategies of women's peace movements continue to be relevant in contemporary conflicts and struggles for peace and justice
  • In recent years, women have been at the forefront of movements to end violence and militarism in places like Syria, Colombia, and the Philippines, using many of the same tactics and approaches pioneered by earlier generations of women peace activists
  • Women peace activists have also been involved in efforts to promote disarmament and arms control, challenge the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, and resist the militarization of police and border security
  • As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of war, conflict, and insecurity, the ongoing work of women's peace movements remains as vital and necessary as ever

Key Terms to Review (21)

Advocacy: Advocacy refers to the act of supporting, promoting, or arguing for a cause, policy, or change. It plays a vital role in amplifying marginalized voices and pushing for social justice and policy reform. In various contexts, advocacy can involve grassroots activism, lobbying, education, and coalition-building to address systemic inequalities and empower communities.
Alice Paul: Alice Paul was a prominent American suffragist and women's rights activist known for her pivotal role in the women's suffrage movement and her advocacy for the Equal Rights Amendment. Her work was instrumental in the passage of the Nineteenth Amendment, which granted women the right to vote, and she continued to fight for gender equality in the decades that followed. Paul's strategic approaches included organizing parades, protests, and hunger strikes, making her a leading figure in advancing women's political rights and participation.
Bertha von Suttner: Bertha von Suttner was an Austrian pacifist, author, and the first woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize in 1905. She is best known for her influential anti-war novel 'Die Waffen nieder!' ('Lay Down Your Arms!'), which powerfully argued against militarism and promoted peace. Her work laid important groundwork for women's involvement in peace movements and highlighted the need for disarmament and international cooperation.
Code Pink: Women for Peace: Code Pink: Women for Peace is a grassroots organization founded in 2002 that aims to advocate for peace and social justice through nonviolent means. It mobilizes women and allies to raise awareness about the impacts of war, promote women's rights, and push for policy changes that prioritize diplomacy over military action. The group's activities include protests, public education campaigns, and lobbying efforts focused on various issues including military spending and reproductive rights.
Feminist peace theory: Feminist peace theory is an analytical framework that critiques traditional notions of peace and security, emphasizing the importance of gender dynamics and women's experiences in the context of conflict resolution and peacebuilding. This theory argues that true peace can only be achieved by addressing the structural inequalities and power imbalances that exist within societies, particularly those that marginalize women. By integrating feminist perspectives, this theory highlights the need for inclusive approaches to peace that consider the voices and agency of women as essential to sustainable solutions.
Gendered analysis of conflict: A gendered analysis of conflict examines how gender roles and identities shape the experiences and impacts of conflict, highlighting that men and women experience war, peace, and security differently. This approach emphasizes the importance of considering gender dynamics in understanding the causes of conflict, the experiences of combatants and civilians, and the processes of peacebuilding, as it reveals how societal norms influence behaviors and expectations during and after conflicts.
Global Peace Index: The Global Peace Index (GPI) is a measure that ranks countries around the world based on their levels of peace, taking into account factors such as levels of violence, conflict, and militarization. It serves as a tool to understand the relative peacefulness of nations and highlights the importance of peace in global stability and development. Women's peace movements often intersect with the GPI by advocating for policies and practices that promote social justice and reduce violence, thereby contributing to a more peaceful society.
Grassroots activism: Grassroots activism refers to the efforts of individuals and communities to effect change at a local level, often driven by the collective action of ordinary people rather than established leaders or organizations. This type of activism emphasizes participation, mobilization, and advocacy among community members, aiming to influence political decisions or societal norms. Grassroots movements rely on building relationships, raising awareness, and utilizing various forms of communication to amplify their voices and impact.
Intersectionality: Intersectionality is a theoretical framework that examines how various social identities, such as race, gender, class, and sexuality, overlap and intersect to create unique experiences of discrimination and privilege. This concept highlights that individuals do not experience oppression in isolation but rather through the interconnected nature of their identities.
Madre: In the context of women's peace movements, 'madre' translates to 'mother' in Spanish and symbolizes the nurturing and protective roles that women often embody in society. This term is significant as it highlights how women activists leverage their maternal identities to advocate for peace and justice, often positioning themselves as caregivers for their communities amidst conflict. The concept of 'madre' also emphasizes the emotional strength and resilience that women bring to peace-building efforts.
Mothers for Peace: Mothers for Peace is a grassroots movement that emerged in the 1980s, primarily composed of women advocating for nuclear disarmament and peace. The organization highlights the unique perspective of mothers, emphasizing their role in nurturing life and promoting a world free from the threat of war and violence. This movement connects to broader women's peace movements, which have historically sought to address issues of militarism, conflict resolution, and social justice through a feminine lens.
Nobel Peace Prize awarded to women: The Nobel Peace Prize awarded to women recognizes the significant contributions of female leaders, activists, and advocates in promoting peace and resolving conflicts. This prestigious award highlights women's roles in peace movements, emphasizing their efforts in fostering diplomacy, humanitarian work, and social justice initiatives that contribute to global stability and harmony.
The Hague Agenda for Peace and Justice: The Hague Agenda for Peace and Justice is a comprehensive framework established in 2003 that aims to promote peace, security, and justice through international cooperation, specifically focusing on the role of women in peace processes. This agenda recognizes that women's participation is essential for sustainable peace and addresses the need for gender equality in conflict resolution and post-conflict reconstruction efforts. By emphasizing women's voices and perspectives, the agenda seeks to reshape how peace and justice are understood and implemented globally.
UN Women's Conference: The UN Women's Conference refers to a series of global gatherings organized by the United Nations aimed at promoting women's rights and gender equality. These conferences serve as platforms for dialogue, policy-making, and the sharing of best practices among nations to address pressing issues affecting women worldwide, including violence, economic empowerment, and political participation.
Women Peacemakers Program: The Women Peacemakers Program is an initiative that aims to amplify the role of women in peacebuilding efforts across the globe. It recognizes that women often bring unique perspectives and solutions to conflict resolution, and seeks to enhance their participation in peace processes, thereby promoting gender equality and sustainable peace. This program aligns with broader movements advocating for women's rights and peace initiatives.
Women Strike for Peace: Women Strike for Peace was a grassroots organization founded in 1961 that united women across the United States to advocate for peace and nuclear disarmament during the Cold War. The movement highlighted women's unique roles as caregivers and peacekeepers, emphasizing the need for societal change through nonviolent means and community engagement.
Women, Peace and Security Agenda: The Women, Peace and Security Agenda is a global framework that recognizes the critical role women play in peace-building and conflict resolution, aiming to promote gender equality and ensure women's participation in decision-making processes related to peace and security. This agenda underscores the importance of including women in discussions and efforts to prevent conflict, manage crises, and rebuild societies after war, highlighting how their contributions lead to more sustainable peace.
Women's agency: Women's agency refers to the capacity of women to act independently, make their own choices, and influence their lives and the society around them. This concept emphasizes the importance of women having the power and freedom to assert themselves in various areas, including political, social, and economic spheres. Women's agency is crucial in understanding how women engage with movements that seek peace and justice, advocating for their rights and the rights of others.
Women's International League for Peace and Freedom: The Women's International League for Peace and Freedom (WILPF) is a global organization founded in 1915 that advocates for disarmament, peace, and women's rights. Established during World War I, it aimed to unite women across national boundaries to address the root causes of conflict and promote a just and peaceful world. WILPF has played a significant role in women's peace movements by emphasizing the interconnectedness of gender equality and peace, and by mobilizing women’s voices in international politics.
Women’s March on Versailles: The Women’s March on Versailles was a significant event during the French Revolution that took place on October 5, 1789, when a large group of women marched from Paris to the Palace of Versailles to demand bread and political reforms. This march highlighted the dire economic conditions facing women and their families and served as a catalyst for political change, emphasizing women's roles in political activism and social movements.
Women's Peace Party: The Women's Peace Party was an organization founded in 1915 by women activists in the United States who sought to promote peace and prevent war through advocacy, education, and international collaboration. It emerged during a time of escalating global conflict, particularly World War I, as women recognized their unique position to influence politics and push for peaceful resolutions to disputes.
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.
Back
Practice QuizGlossary
Practice QuizGlossary
Next guide