Women from around the world representing millions of other women are gathered at the 47th Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. We came to protest violence, and war is the most extreme form of violence.

Women oppose war against Iraq. Authorizing war in the name of peace undermines the very principles of the UN which was formed to prevent the scourge of war. We reject the notion of a pre-emptive attack by any member state or states. This will not bring peace and security, only the global escalation of war and prolonged social instability.

Women and girls know too well the pain and suffering from the loss of life and the irreversible and devastating consequences of war: the long-term consequences of armed conflict continue to affect future generations.

We reject the increased militarization of our societies in the name of “security”, as resources are diverted from social needs to military spending this militarization costs millions of lives before a single bomb falls

We recommend dialogue, broad consultation and diplomatic negotiations with the full and equal participation of women in compliance with Security Council Resolution 1325.