Follow-up to the platforms for action on peace

Abstract

As African countries liberated themselves from the yoke of colonialism, its people were buoyed by the hope that they could now turn their attention to the urgent issues of development. All too quickly, their hopes were dashed as many of their societies were torn by conflict and crisis.The Pan-African Conference on Peace, Gender Equality and Development, held in Kigali, Rwanda, is another significant step in maintaining the spirit and momentum of Beijing and for moving ahead in the implementation of the African and Global Platforms for Action. Women's vision for peace recognizes that "Peace is not just the absence of war, violence and hostilities, but rather a situation where all people have equal access to economic and social justice, to the entire range of human rights and fundamental freedoms, and in which the environment is protected".