Abstract

The Som-Can Institute for Research and Development proposes to hold a conference in Ottawa on 2-3 July 1999, to promote the empowerment of Somali women so that they can be a constructive force in social, political and economic decision-making in Somalia. The Conference is inviting six participants from Somalia, 10 from Europe and the United States, and representatives from the Canadian government and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). The meeting aims to create a neutral space for dialogue on issues of peace and development without reference to clan politics; identify mechanisms for increasing Somali women's access to information and knowledge relevant to peace and development issues in Somalia; and identify steps to promote equality in political participation and leadership. The conference is expected to strengthen networking among Somali women in the diaspora, and raise awareness of and support for the potential role of Somali women in peacebuilding and development.

Recipient Institution(s)