Author: Esther R. Suter

2025 IALRW Conference: Power of Dialogue and Partnership

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IALRW Conference 2025

Power of Dialogue and Partnership

June 11-16, 2025 • Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia

About the Conference

Following the success of our 2023 Conference in Cluj-Napoca, where we explored “Religion in Action: From Reconciliation to Inclusive Diversity,” the International Association of Liberal Religious Women (IALRW) is pleased to announce our 2025 Conference in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.

In the post-COVID era, meeting and exchanging ideas in person has become more essential than ever. The IALRW-Conference 2023 in Cluj-Napoca/Kolozsvar (Romania) provided a vibrant forum where women courageously shared their personal experiences within their churches, in society, and in their personal relationships. It was remarkable to discover how similar women’s issues are around the globe! This represents an invaluable treasure that IALRW has been sharing for 115 years as of 2025.

In Kuching, we aim to expand our international and interreligious dialogue by including indigenous perspectives and their unique challenges, as well as their traditions of living in harmony with nature—from which we can learn a great deal. We will also hear directly from Buddhist participants about their relationship with nature and have the opportunity to meet with Buddhist women. The 19th Sakyadhita International Conference 2025 for Buddhist Women will begin at the same hotel just as our conference concludes.

What can unite us during these challenging times, coming as we do from diverse backgrounds in East and West? How do we address emerging restrictions and often oppressive structures? What contributions do our religious backgrounds make toward building resilience? These are some of the topics that will be explored during the conference and reflected in a final statement.

The five-day program combines academic presentations, interactive workshops, cultural experiences, and networking opportunities. Participants will engage in statement preparation workshops, panel discussions on European-Asian perspectives, and experience the rich cultural heritage of Kuching through guided tours. The conference concludes with an optional opportunity to participate in the opening ceremony of the 19th Sakyadhita Buddhist Women Conference.

2023 Conference Highlights

Explore these highlights from our successful 2023 Conference in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, where participants from around the world gathered to discuss “Religion in Action: From Reconciliation to Inclusive Diversity.”

Images from the 2023 IALRW Conference in Cluj-Napoca, Romania

Location & Venue

Kuching, the capital of Sarawak, is a vibrant city that perfectly embodies Malaysia’s cultural diversity. Home to over 27 ethnic groups, the city offers a unique blend of modern amenities and rich cultural heritage. Known as the “Land of the Hornbills,” Kuching provides an ideal setting for meaningful dialogue and cultural exchange.

Venue Address:
The Waterfront Hotel Kuching
68 Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg
93000 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia

Visiting Malaysia & Kuching

Welcome to Malaysia! Here is some practical information to help you prepare for your trip to Kuching for the IALRW Conference 2025.

Visa Information

Many countries enjoy visa-free entry to Malaysia for stays up to 30-90 days. Check the Malaysian Immigration Department website for specific requirements for your nationality.

Getting to Kuching

Kuching International Airport (KCH) is well-connected to major Asian hubs. Most international visitors will connect through Kuala Lumpur (KUL) or Singapore (SIN). Major airlines serving Kuching include Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and Singapore Airlines.

Climate & What to Pack

Kuching has a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 23°C-32°C (73°F-90°F) year-round. June brings occasional rain showers. Pack light, breathable clothing, an umbrella or raincoat, sun protection, and modest attire for visiting religious sites.

Local Transportation

The Waterfront Hotel is centrally located. Taxis and ride-hailing services (Grab) are widely available. Public buses serve major routes. Walking is pleasant along the waterfront area. The hotel offers airport transfers (contact them directly).

Currency & Payments

The Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for small purchases. ATMs are abundant. As of April 2025, 1 USD ≈ 4.4 MYR, 1 EUR ≈ 4.8 MYR.

Electricity & Connectivity

Malaysia uses the UK-style three-pin socket (Type G, 240V). Bring an adapter if needed. Wi-Fi is available at the conference venue and most cafes and restaurants. Local SIM cards can be purchased at the airport.

Cultural Etiquette

Malaysia is a multicultural society with Malay, Chinese, and indigenous cultures. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly. Remove shoes when entering homes and places of worship. Use your right hand for giving or receiving items. Pointing with the index finger is considered rude.

Food & Dining

Kuching offers diverse cuisine reflecting its multicultural heritage. Local specialties include Sarawak Laksa, Kolo Mee, and Manok Pansoh. Halal food is widely available. Tap water is generally not recommended for drinking; bottled water is inexpensive and readily available.

Emergency Contacts

Emergency: 999
Tourist Police: +60 82 242 593
Sarawak General Hospital: +60 82 276 666
Local Conference Contact: Will be provided prior to the conference

Local Attractions

Consider exploring the Sarawak Cultural Village, Bako National Park, Semenggoh Wildlife Centre (orangutans), Sarawak Museum, and the vibrant Main Bazaar. The conference will include some local activities, but you may want to plan extra time before or after for sightseeing.

Useful Malaysian Phrases

Hello Selamat pagi (morning) / Selamat petang (evening)
Thank you Terima kasih
Yes / No Ya / Tidak
Excuse me Maaf
How much? Berapa harga?
Where is…? Di mana…?

Registration

Please use the form below to register for the IALRW Conference 2025. The conference will be held in a hybrid format, allowing both in-person and virtual participation.

Registration is considered complete upon submission of the online form and receipt of payment (see payment details in the next section). A confirmation email will be sent once both are received.

    Personal Information

    Address

    Contact Information

    Preferred Contact App(s)

    Affiliation

    Conference Details

    Note: The Conference Pack includes materials, specific meals, and activities for in-person attendees.

    Travel Information (Required for In-Person Attendees)

    Accommodation

    By submitting this form, you consent to IALRW using the provided information solely to process your conference registration, communicate essential updates and logistical details, and facilitate your participation. Your personal data will be handled responsibly and will not be shared with third parties for purposes unrelated to this conference.
    .

    Conference Fees & Payment

    Please select your participation type in the registration form above. The corresponding fees are:

    In-Person Participation

    Registration Fee: 220 MYR (approx. $50 USD)

    Conference Package: 710 MYR (approx. $160 USD)
    (includes materials, specified meals/activities)

    Total In-Person Fee: 930 MYR (approx. $210 USD)

    Online Participation

    Access to all virtual sessions, materials, and interactive components.

    Total Online Fee: $10 USD

    Important: When paying in USD, EUR, or JPY, please ensure the final amount received equals the specified fee in Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) for in-person attendance or $10 USD for online attendance. You may need to account for bank transfer fees.

    Payment should be made via bank transfer to one of the following WISE accounts held by Gudrun Hahn. Please include “IALRW 2025 – [Your Full Name]” in the transfer reference/title so we can match your payment to your registration.

    $

    USD Account (WISE)

    Account Holder
    Gudrun Hahn
    Account Number
    548 492 496 031 327
    Routing Number
    084009519
    SWIFT/BIC
    TRWIUS35XXX
    Bank Address
    WISE US Inc, 30 W. 26th Street, Sixth Floor, New York, NY, 10010, United States
    €

    EUR Account (WISE)

    Account Holder
    Gudrun Hahn
    IBAN
    BE89 9053 7230 3585
    SWIFT/BIC
    TRWIBEB1XXX
    Bank Address
    Wise Europe SA, Rue du Trōne 100, 3rd floor, Brussels, 1050, Belgium
    ¥

    JPY Account (WISE)

    Account Holder
    Gudrun Hahn
    IBAN
    GB 49 TRWI 2308 0152 7952 21
    Note
    JPY transfers via WISE often use a UK-based IBAN
    SWIFT/BIC
    TRWIGB2LXXX
    Bank Address
    Wise Payments Limited, TEA Building, 56 Shoreditch High Street, London E1 6JJ, United Kingdom

    Remember, your registration is only finalized upon receipt of both the completed online form and the full payment.

    Copied to clipboard!

    Adjacent Conference

    Following our conference, the 19th Sakyadhita International Conference will take place from June 16-20, 2025, at the same venue. The theme “Navigating Change: Buddhist Women in Transition” offers an excellent opportunity for extended networking and learning. For more information, visit Sakyadhita’s website.

    Contact Us

    For inquiries about the conference program or content, please contact Rev. Dr. Esther R. Suter at dr.estherrsuter@bluewin.ch.

    For inquiries regarding registration or payment, please contact Gudrun Hahn at Gudrun.Hahn@web.de and cc pailingloh@gmail.com.

    Programme

    The detailed conference programme will be available here soon. Stay tuned!

    Timezone Selection for Remote Participants

    All times are currently displayed in Kuching, Malaysia (UTC+8) time
    Wednesday, June 11, 2025
    Arrival & Welcome Day
    Arrival & Check-in
    After arrival at the Kuching airport, please make your way by taxi or public transportation to The Waterfront Hotel. A welcome team will be there to help you find your hotel and provide practical advice.
    16:00 – 18:00
    Welcoming & Refreshments
    Join us for a welcome reception at The Waterfront Hotel. This is a great opportunity to meet fellow participants in an informal setting. Late arrivals will find our team waiting at the Waterfront Hotel until all have arrived safely.
    Thursday, June 12, 2025
    Conference Day 1: Historical Foundations
    09:00
    Registration & Morning Devotion
    Registration opens and morning devotion session prepared by IALRW International Council.
    10:00
    Opening Ceremony
    115 Years of IARLW: Historical Foundations & Future Directions
    IALRW was founded in 1910 as Ladies Wing of the IARF and held triennial or quadrennial conferences, except during war and interwar times. The last four conferences, since 2010 took place (Centennial, in Kochi (India); 2014 Birmingham (UK); 2018 Washington (USA); 2023 Cluj-Napoca/Kolozsvar (Romania). Where will it go in the near future?
    Rev. Dr. Esther R. Suter
    Rev. Dr. Esther R. Suter
    President, International Association of Liberal Religious Women
    She is an ordained minister in the Swiss Evangelical Church and serves as the Permanent Main Representative to the United Nations for IARF. She has extensive experience in international ecumenical work and interfaith dialogue, and regularly participates in UN sessions and conferences representing IARF’s interests and mission.
    11:00
    Keynote Address
    Reactivating Humanity and Humanness through Religions
    Of late, unprecedented atrocities and evilness are gripping the world with horrible genocides, wars, conflicts, brutalities – pains and suffering of such intensity and magnitude that only shock but are paralyzing the world. How have human beings become so depraved, inhuman in fact? Humanity has lost its direction, humanness has evaporated… human beings have lost their identity. Yet every religion, without exception, defines what a human being is and gives guidance on how to become a human being, to cultivate a human being, to cultivate a human society. To uphold roles and responsibilities, to establish rights and justice for all, the human and the non-human. Thus, in face of these horrors, it is necessary that people of religion and people of conscience come up, front and center-stage, to do our bit to receive humanity and to reinstate humanness. It is indeed our calling.
    Prof. Dr. Kamar Oniah Kamaruzaman
    Prof. Dr. Kamar Oniah Kamaruzaman
    Advisor, International Association of Liberal Religious Women, IALRW-President (2014-2023)
    Prof. Dr. Kamar Oniah Kamaruzaman is a professor of Comparative Religion at the International Islamic University of Malaysia (IIUM). She is an academic who is actively involved in social works and is especially active in interfaith engagements and initiatives, locally and internationally, and her publications on interfaith initiatives are references for such works. She participates in numerous seminars, conferences and workshops including those organised by the UN, UNESCO, religious bodies, and public agencies. She was the founder President of the Interactive Muslimah Association of Malaysia (IMAN) (2007-2014), member of the Malaysian Committee on the Promotion of Harmony among the Malaysian Faith Communities (2007-2014). Deputy President 2 of the World Council of Religious and Spiritual Leaders (Bangkok, 2000). She was the President of the International Association of Liberal Religious Women (IALRW) (2014-2023).
    12:00
    Presentation
    Buddhist Perspectives on Interfaith Dialogue
    Dr. Thea Mohr shares insights into interfaith dialogue from Buddhist perspectives, drawing on her extensive experience in cross-cultural exchange and religious studies.
    Dr. Thea Mohr
    Dr. Thea Mohr
    Council of Europe and IRICD Commission, Europe Buddhist Union
    Dr. Thea Mohr is an internationally recognized expert in intercultural competence and cultural intelligence, with specialized focus on India, China, Japan, South Korea, Arab countries, and several European nations. A business economist and religious/cultural scientist by training, she holds certification as an intercultural trainer and coach from the Artop Institute of Humboldt University Berlin, with additional expertise in conflict and change management. Dr. Mohr’s diverse professional portfolio includes serving as managing director of a charitable organization and holding lectureships at several prestigious institutions including Goethe University Frankfurt, EH Darmstadt, Ostfalia University, and TU Braunschweig, where she teaches subjects ranging from religious studies to management in Asia. Her work as a scientific consultant has taken her to numerous countries across four continents, producing cultural studies documentaries for ZDF and arte. She currently represents the European Buddhist Union on the Council of Europe’s Committee for Interreligious and Interconvictional Dialogue. Dr. Mohr organizes international academic congresses and cultural study trips to Asia, bringing her theoretical knowledge and practical experience to diverse audiences, including as a lecturer on intercultural communication aboard cruise ships. She conducts seminars in German, English, French, and Italian.
    13:00
    Networking Lunch
    14:00
    Interactive Session
    Religious Freedom and Education in Eastern Europe
    Religious Freedom is a hard earned treasure which has created possibility for Education during centuries in Transylvania and the East part of Europe. Where Unitarian communities established schools were founded and serious Education was sustained. The inspiration for learning and the aspiration for making it available to everyone, including girls, was and is high priority for us. Today’s tumultuous times of uncertainty need educated minds and hearts. Today education is still an inspiration, so important to learn from each other!
    Rev. Zsuzsanna Bartha
    Rev. Zsuzsanna Bartha
    Vice President, International Association of Liberal Religious Women
    Rev. Zsuzsánna Mária Bartha is an ordained minister in the Hungarian Unitarian Church and currently serves as the President of the Unitarian Women’s Association in Hungary. Born in Nagykároly/Carei, Romania, Rev. Bartha graduated from the Protestant Theological Institute of Kolozsvár/Cluj Napoca in 1996. Her early ministry was distinguished by service to historical Unitarian congregations in rural Transylvania, including Kénos and Mészkő. In 2004, she expanded her spiritual leadership to Unitarian diaspora communities in the Szatmár region. Rev. Bartha’s theological education includes specialized studies at prestigious American Unitarian institutions: Meadville Lombard Theological School in Chicago (1997) and Starr King School for the Ministry in Berkeley (2001-2002). This international training has informed her approach to ministry across cultural and national boundaries. Since 2012, Rev. Bartha has been the spiritual leader of the Unitarian community in Kocsord, Hungary, where she continues to serve while also guiding the Hungarian Unitarian Women’s Association in her capacity as President.
    16:00
    Statement Preparation Workshop
    Collaborative session to develop key statements and recommendations from the conference.
    18:00
    Cultural Visit
    Visit to a local place of worship, offering insights into Sarawak’s diverse religious landscape.
    Friday, June 13, 2025
    Conference Day 2: Global Perspectives
    09:00
    Registration & Morning Devotion
    Morning devotion prepared by IALRW International Council.
    10:00
    Keynote Address
    Nuclear Disarmament and Japanese Women’s Advocacy
    For the past few years, the Japanese members of IALRW have concentrated their social activities on the abolition of nuclear power plants and nuclear weapons. It is believed that the time remaining on the “Doomsday Clock,” which symbolically indicates the time remaining until human extinction, has reached 89 seconds, the shortest time ever. A nuclear war must never happen. The tragedies of Hiroshima and Nagasaki should not be repeated.
    Prof. Dr. Kathy R. Matsui
    Prof. Dr. Kathy R. Matsui
    Advisor to IALRW International, IALRW-President (2006-2014)
    She is a peace educator facilitating conflict resolution and reconciliation workshops. She works with peace researchers and educators internationally in the International Institute on Peace Education, the Conflict Resolution and Peace Education Working Group of the Global Partnership for Prevention of Armed Conflict. She is currently an advisory board member for Hague Appeal for Peace, Global Campaign for Peace Education. She is also active in her participation in interfaith cooperation and dialogue as a board member of the International Association for Liberal Religious Women (IALRW), a member of the International Association for Religious Freedom (IARF), and a member of the IARF Japan Chapter. She is also active in the Reconciliation and Education Task Force, the Peace Research Institute, and the women’s Executive Committee of Religions for Peace.
    11:00
    Policy Presentation
    Women, Peace, and Security: From UN Resolution to Action
    The presence of IARF as NGO in general consultative status at United Nations allows indirect presence for IALRW, especially in the UN-Commission on the Status of Women. The annual sessions (69th in 2025) with official delegates from governments of the member states allow an overview of political tendencies, and give insight into religious endeavours to influence the empowerment of women in their rights as human rights. The Resolution Women/Peace/Security dates back 25 years (2000) and is not really implemented.
    Rev. Dr. Esther R. Suter
    Rev. Dr. Esther R. Suter
    President, International Association of Liberal Religious Women
    She is an ordained minister in the Swiss Evangelical Church and serves as the Permanent Main Representative to the United Nations for IARF. She has extensive experience in international ecumenical work and interfaith dialogue, and regularly participates in UN sessions and conferences representing IARF’s interests and mission. She also represents the IARF and indirectly IALRW at the Council of Europe, in the recently (2021) created Commission for Interreligious and Interconvictional Dialogue, which Dr. Thea Mohr is presenting as Co-founder.
    Prof. Dr. Azza Karam
    Prof. Dr. Azza Karam
    President Lead-Integrity (Islam, USA/Egypt)
    She is a member of the UN Secretary General High Level Advisory Board on Multilateralism and worked for UN during two decades, where she coordinated the Arab Human Development Reports. She served as Secretary General of the World Conference on Religions for Peace and Director of it’s Women Programmes and Middle East Advisor from 2019-2023. Now she is the Founding President and CEO of Lead Integrity.
    12:30
    Q&A Session
    13:00
    Lunch
    14:00
    Presentation
    Buddhist Spirituality and Climate Change
    Dr. Thea Mohr
    Dr. Thea Mohr
    Europe Buddhist Union
    Dr. Thea Mohr is an internationally recognized expert in intercultural competence and cultural intelligence, with specialized focus on India, China, Japan, South Korea, Arab countries, and several European nations. A business economist and religious/cultural scientist by training, she holds certification as an intercultural trainer and coach from the Artop Institute of Humboldt University Berlin, with additional expertise in conflict and change management.
    15:00
    Presentation
    Indigenous Spirituality and Climate Change
    Prof. Dr. Kathy R. Matsui
    Ms. Celine Lim
    Managing Director, Save Rivers
    16:15
    Conversation: Buddhist and Indigenous Perspectives on Climate Action
    A dialogue between Dr. Thea Mohr and Ms. Celine Lim exploring connections between Buddhist and indigenous approaches to environmental ethics and climate change response.
    18:00
    Cultural Visit
    Visit to a local place of worship, continuing our exploration of Sarawak’s religious diversity.
    Saturday, June 14, 2025
    Conference Day 3: Interfaith Dialogue Day & IALRW Meeting
    09:00
    Registration
    10:00
    Panel Discussion
    The Power of Dialogue: Interfaith Perspectives
    Loh Pai Ling
    Loh Pai Ling
    Vice President, International Association of Liberal Religious Women
    Sister Pai Ling is a pioneering Buddhist leader, making history as the first woman President of the Buddhist Missionary Society Malaysia (BMSM), where she is currently serving her fifth term. Her journey with BMSM began as Honorary Secretary of the Kajang Branch, and she now chairs the BMSM Meditation Section. Sis Loh’s influence extends both nationally and internationally through various leadership roles. She currently serves as Vice President and is a past President of the Malaysian Buddhist Consultative Council (MBCC). She also represents Buddhists on the National Interfaith Committee Malaysia and chairs the Interfaith Dialogue Standing Committee of the World Fellowship of Buddhists (WFB). With over two decades of dedicated service in interfaith dialogue and Buddhist leadership, Sis Loh has made significant contributions to religious harmony and understanding in Malaysia, while also breaking new ground for women in Buddhist leadership.
    13:00
    Lunch
    14:00
    Business Meeting
    IALRW Organizational Meeting
    Official meeting for International Association of Liberal Religious Women members to discuss organizational matters and draft the conference resolution.
    18:00
    Festive Dinner
    Sunday, June 15, 2025
    Cultural Heritage Tour
    09:00
    Cultural Excursion
    Sarawak Cultural Village Visit
    Explore this living museum showcasing Sarawak’s diverse communities and cultures. Experience traditional architecture, crafts, and performances representing the state’s many ethnic groups.
    14:00
    Tour Option 1
    City Sightseeing Tour
    Explore Kuching’s highlights, including:
    • The White Giant Cat Statue
    • State Mosque
    • Tua Pek Kong Temple
    • Historic Kuching Post Office
    • Souvenir Street
    • Sarawak River Cruise
    OR
    Tour Option 2
    Semenggoh Nature Reserve
    Visit this area that serves as a habitat for semi-wild orangutans. These highly intelligent creatures share 96% of human genes but are sadly on the endangered species list.
    Monday, June 16, 2025
    Departures & Sakyadhita Conference
    14:00
    Special Event
    19th Sakyadhita International Conference Opening Ceremony
    Join the opening ceremony of the 19th Sakyadhita International Conference on Buddhist Women. This prestigious gathering brings together scholars, practitioners, and supporters of Buddhist women from around the world.

    Purchase Your Congress Pass Here

    We are thrilled to announce that registration for the 2023 Congress of the International Association of Liberal Religious Women is now officially open! The event, hosted at the House of Religious Freedom, will run from Thursday, September 7th to Friday, September 8th. You can read more about it here.

    We have a range of ticket options available to suit your needs, whether you plan to join us for the entire event, just one day, or prefer to participate online. We also offer a reduced rate for young adults and those in need, as we believe that everyone should be able to join us.

    For those traveling from afar, we’ve arranged accommodation options in double rooms, with or without air conditioning. Meals, including breakfast and dinner, can also be added to your package to complete your stay.

    In the spirit of solidarity, we encourage you to consider making a donation to the IALRW. Every contribution, however small, helps us continue our mission and allows us to offer these enriching experiences.

    2023 IALRW Congress: Religions in Action

    The International Association of Liberal Religious Women (IALRW), will be hosting their World Congress in Cluj-Napoca (Kolozsvár) from the 7th to the 8th of September, 2023. This congress comes directly after the IARF World Congress, presenting a unique opportunity to attend both events in succession.

    The congress will be held under the theme Religion in Action: From Reconciliation to Inclusive Diversity, reflecting the IALRW’s ongoing dedication to fostering dialogue and understanding among women of diverse faith traditions. Although the speakers for the event have not yet been confirmed, we assure you that the lineup will consist of some of the most insightful voices in the field. We will be publishing the program shortly, so please keep an eye on our website for updates.

    The World Congress will be graciously hosted by the Hungarian Unitarian Church at the House of Religious Freedom, a historic 15th-century townhouse located in Cluj-Napoca. Known as one of the oldest and most significant townhouses in the city, the House of Religious Freedom has been lovingly restored by the Hungarian Unitarian Church and is dedicated to promoting the ideals of religious freedom and tolerance.

    For further information about the IALRW Congress, please contact the Rev. Dr. Esther Suter at dr.estherrsuter@bluewin.ch.

    The IARF and IALRW look forward to welcoming you in Cluj-Napoca (Kolozsvár) for these back-to-back congresses. Please mark your calendars and join us in fostering interfaith dialogue and inclusive diversity.

    Faith in Reconciliation

    Where: Hungarian Unitarian Church & Academy in Kolozsvar/Cluj, Romania
    When: 4th – 6th September 2023
    (Arrival 3rd September / Departure 7th September recommended)

    Keynote: Prof. George Williams, USA
    „Remembering History as a Prelude to Reconciliation“

    other speakers:
    Rev. Gladys McNatt
    Prof. K. Terasawa
    Prof. Kathy Matsui
    Rev. Dr. Esther Suter
    Rev. Dr. John Young
    Jahnvi Gupte
    Rabbi Bob Carroll
    …

    Formats:
    Panels, discussion groups, workshops, interfaith devotions,
    Entertainment from different cultures …

    For the first time, full online participation is also possible.

    Link to the congress

    How Do We Become Human?

    Lecture at the International Association for Religious Freedom – Europe Middle East Conference 2021 

    ESTHER R. SUTER

    This Lecture describes in three parts the subject of my doctoral thesis ‘Das Existenzverständnis bei Fritz Buri (1907-1995)/ The Understanding of Existence by Fritz Buri (1907-1995)’. The thesis was approved in 2020 at the Theological Faculty of Basel University.

    Download full text as PDF

    Model for Inclusion. 25 years after the Beijing Conference Violence against Women remains an Issue.

    The first virtual 65th session of the UN-Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) and the NGO parallel events (March 15-26, 2021) recorded over 25’000 registrations. This is 20% more than for the 64th session in 2020, the UN Jubilee year for Beijing+25, 25 years since the 4th WCW in Beijing 1995 with its Platform for Action and Declaration, which had to be cancelled. Since over 25 years results achieved are regularly examined and fears are rising about the increasing criticism and lack of implementation. UN accredited NGO’s offered over 700 online parallel events in relation to the priority theme “Women’s full and effective participation and decision making in public life, as well as the elimination of violence, for achieving gender equality and the em-powering of all women and girls” and the review theme “Women’s empowerment and the link to sustainable development”.  The final document with agreed conclusions has a volume of 24 pages.

    It needs to get used to virtual sessions, besides the advantage of large possible registration (no visas required, no travel expenses), it is not possible to compensate virtually physical meetings, conversations, casual contacts. In his Town Hall meeting UN GS António Guterres pointed out that Gender Equality is a question of power. In a male dominated world the issue of gender based violence has to become central in all issues. In such a culture violence against women tends to be declared as non existant. The fact that men decide about women’s issues represents a form of violence Now more and more it is spoken out. Younger people are more open for a culture based on gender equality. Member states should be made responsible for human rights violations. But most vio-lations of human rights, especially violence against women, are not sanctioned and the mechanisms to make them accountable are weak. Power should be responded by power. In order to break such kind of circle up may-be quota should exceptionally be applied. For Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, Executive Director of UN-Women, to make a change would mean to have an equal participation of women and men, just some female representa-tives would not be sufficient.

    The sudden withdrawal by Turkey from the Istanbul Convention of the Council of Europe appeared as a demon-stration of power. Turkish women are afraid of similar reactions followed by other countries (e.g. Bulgaria). For them it is an ‘illegal’ and undemocratic act. And the increasing violence against women and girls in Turkey, in the extreme with femicide, lets them experience a loss of protection, if the Istanbul Convention is not anymore in force. They hope for solidarity by women NGOs and institutions as well as reactions from UN-member states.

    In an Interfaith Remembrance, organised and celebrated by the CCUN and their Methodist Rev. Dionne Bois-sière, many women of NGO-CSW reminded of feminists passed away in 2020 as well as of Ruth Bader Gins-burg. Their lives were shaping examples for many of the participants and this act of remembrance gives a possi-bility to practice humanity. Meditative musical improvisation accompanied this act, dedicated to Maria, Sophia and Shekhina, the Jewish allegory of the female side of God.

    Quite a number of side and parallel events were dedicated to Resolution 1325 of the UN Security Council (2000). The claim of this resolution to include women at the peace negotiations’ tables has not been realized yet. Azza Karam, General Secretary of Religions for Peace and Moslem, reminded that the roots of this resolution lies in women of faith communities who were brokering peace in conflicts and crisis. How to include women at the negotiation table? Faithful women slaves in USA some time ago struggled not just for themselves as women. Their peace activities aimed at possibilities for others to create peace. So not just inclusion of women is neces-sary but women with a faith-basis are already represented and are the model how women can and should be included. She insisted that truth has to be spoken out against power. The Resolution 1325 is an instrument for such a possibility. A moral presence is needed at the table, as well as a wide range of interests and diversity. Women proved to contribute to a lasting peace when given the possibility at the negotiation table. Liberia is such an example. So the role of women is an ongoing issue connected with the right to peace. Women push peace forward and are the conscience of society. Women in the role of faith leaders of faith communities are commit-ted to long-lasting peace.

    Rev. Dr. Esther R. Suter

    English translation of the article (of Esther R. Suter) “Modell für Inklusion. 25 Jahre nach Peking-Konferenz bleibt Gewalt gegen Frauen ein Thema», published in Ökumenische Information, No 13-14, 30.3.2021 KNA – Katholische Nachrichtenagentur, Bonn/Berlin