HANAN HARITE

Morocco- The Moroccan Women's Movement makes their voice be heard by human rights organizations around the world with the slogan “No to genocidal crimes and wars” against the war policies implemented in Sudan, Palestine, Lebanon, Syria and Yemen.

 “Women living in conflict zones face difficult living conditions,” said Aisha Lakhmas, an activist and member of the Union of Women's Action in Morocco, stressing the coordination among women’s movements all around the world.

The Union of Women’s Action in Morocco is a member of the Arab Women’s Network. “The Arab Women’s Network is one of the women's networks in the region aiming to get things back on track, the pre-Beijing +30 conference,” Aisha Lakhmas said, pointing to the ongoing Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip. “With the support of Western countries, Israel ignores all international laws. Israel and Western countries have major financial interests in the Middle East; however, the wars and conflicts in the region drain people, preventing the growth, development and unity of Arab countries.”

 ‘Coordination among women’s movements is important’

The coordination among women’s movements is important to combat all forms of violence against women, Aisha Lakhmas said. “Women are subjected to all forms of violence due to the capitalist system. We witness the effects of conflicts and wars on women in Palestine, Syria, Lebanon and Sudan. Women experiencing armed conflicts are at risk. As women, we are subjected to all kinds of discrimination due to the interests of international states. We, as women, demand security and peace.”

‘Our aim is to build a women’s front’

Aisha Lakhmas also mentioned the importance of forming a women’s regional network. “I am a member of the Union of Women’s Action in Morocco, the Euro-Mediterranean Network and the African Network. Our aim is to build an international women’s front against exploitation and destruction. Nowadays, many parts of the world have been destroyed due to wars and conflicts. The coordination among women will allow us to share our experiences, hold meetings and stop genocidal attacks. The current wars and conflicts affect not only the Middle East but also the southern and northern countries.”

‘International conventions must be implemented’

The UN Security Council Resolution 1325 must be implemented, stated Aisha Lakhmas. “Because women’s participation in peace processes still remains low. Moroccan women activists demand the establishment of international peace mechanisms. International conventions must be implemented to ensure women's participation in peace processes.”