Peacebuilding & Peacekeeping 2023 Event Recap
Our May networking events focused on Peacebuilding and Peacekeeping with our speakers sharing first-hand experiences of what it’s like working in the sector.
Australia has been actively involved in peacebuilding for over 75 years, through NGO programs, managing contractor activity and military and police support of multilateral peace and security operations, including to the Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste and Bougainville, Papua New Guinea and Commonwealth missions in Zimbabwe, Uganda and Afghanistan.
Events were held in Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra. Here is a recap from each city!
Melbourne
Our second WiAD event for the year in Melbourne explored the multi-faceted area of Peacebuilding and Peacekeeping with Dr Tania Miletic - the Assistant Director of Melbourne University's Initiative for Peacebuilding. The evening began, as they do, with lovely chats among both new and returning attendees with some valuable networking being achieved, until we eventually sat and gave Tania the floor.
So again, comfortably ensconced in the welcoming conversational space of the OXFAM offices, with a glass of wine in hand, Tania led us in an evening of interesting discussion which covered such aspects as gender empowerment, looking at the importance of including women in the discussions at the decision-making level and how this has been and continues to be a challenge for many trying to forge solutions in the sector. There was also the important aspect of communication at the community level as well as at the senior levels of government, often behind the scenes and under the radar, where much can be achieved. Tania also shared an array of personal experiences from her work over a strong career path overseas, through to the new 'Initiative for Peacebuilding' unit. She highlighted her drive to transform processes when there is conflict, from the negative, destructive and harmful approach traditionally used, towards more life-sustaining, life-enhancing approaches.
After a couple of hours and with time slipping away, the evening drew to a close with a few questions from the floor and the traditional presenting of the Guest Speakers WiAD mug which was received enthusiastically and graciously by Tania. Another great evening of conversation and discussion!
Jill Scanlon - WiAD Communications Director
Sydney
Our Sydney event was again held at the Canva Café in Surry Hills, with around 15 people in attendance. Great food and wonderful space.
We had a great turnout of attendees all keen to listen to Jennifer Scott AM, a lawyer and mediator focusing on environmental law, ecological sustainability, and conflict resolution. Jennifer shared her experiences working in the peacebuilding sector touching on intersectionality, the need to listen, the military’s role in peacebuilding, infrastructure and training opportunities.
Jennifer’s advice for those who are looking to get into the sector, they should learn how to have a difficult conversation - take it seriously, and prepare, important because what is said cannot be unsaid or unsent in an email - conflict created and people destroyed by words is huge. Be culturally aware, listen, be aware of your own hidden prejudices, and ask: have I offended? Apologise immediately - be aware you are not the expert.
Bosnia, Kosovo, Thai Burma border, Afghanistan - all examples of women leading on peace and prove that women have a role in maintaining peace, if we are not involved then they’re denying that peace is a shared responsibility - it’s up to all of us.
Chris Franks - Sydney City Leader
Canberra
We had a great event last night with 10 people at the end plus one online. We were joined by three amazing speakers, Barbara O’Dwyer, Jules Frost and Susan Hutchinson. Each speaker brought a unique perspective to the conversation and it was brilliant to hear their views and individual experiences. Everyone really enjoyed it – “inspirational” was the main feedback received.
Emily Moreton - Canberra City leader
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A massive thank you to our speakers - Dr Tania Miletic, Jennifer Scott AM, Barbara O’Dwyer, Jules Frost and Susan Hutchinson - all those who attended and of course, our city leaders, who so generously shared their time to ensure that all events were a success.
We hope to see you all again at our next series of events in July!