by Kristine Karch

Around 30 people, most women participated. Kristine Karch from the womens network “No to war – No to NATO” give a lecture about the impact of patriarchal structures to the society. Male values are associated with hierarchies, rivalry, and competition and resulting violence. So-called female values like concern and reconciliation will not find recognition. The attribution of values is not justified biologically, but is generated through society. If we want to struggle against war and militarism we have to analyze these power structures and gender relations in their whole complexity and with their interdependencies and we are obliged to unveiling the inherent violence that starts with domestic violence, continues on the streets, does not spare nature and ends in wars and all people suffer from these. NATO was criticized as a tool of war and therefore the implementation of the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 is a misuse of women for this dirty job. It is the contrary than the original intention of the resolution, which was to empower womens, to include gender perspectives in all issues of life, to protect women and children in conflict situations and to engage women in peace building processes.

Inge Höger, member of German Parliament from Die Linke (Left Party) gave an overview of the situation in Germany. The “Bundeswehr” use strategically the gender issues to increase public acceptance for war. But she informed also about the activities in Germany of women against war and for global justice, because war can not liberate women, war create more insecurity and strengthens male dominance.

Nancy Mancias from codepink gave an overview of their actions against NATO and militarization. She talk about their campaign against Drones and their activities together with the Occupy Movement for more womens rights and a peaceful society.

Claire Chastain from the Collectif national unitaire OTAN-Afghanistan, France talk about the new situation in France after the presidential election, where Hollande was the winner and his promise to bring thee French troops in Afghanistan back home until the end of 2012.

In the discussion we agreed that gender justice can only be realized in a peaceful, justice and world, so a lot of work have to be done.

Regards

kristine karch