Gernika and Bilbao host international congress on peacebuilding

Activists and academics from around the world gather to discuss the role of women in conflict resolution.

Interior of a conference room with a wooden stage and a microphone.
IA

Interior of a conference room with a wooden stage and a microphone.

Gernika and Bilbao are hosting the Mundos de Mujeres (MM26) international congress, bringing together hundreds of activists and academics to explore strategies for building peace.

The event kicked off at the Astra cultural space in Gernika, highlighting that women's participation in peace processes is essential for the longevity of agreements. The congress, titled 'Mujeres y Pazes', brings together over 320 participants.
During the opening days, attendees explored the town's historical sites and visited the Casa de Juntas to strengthen ties with the regional parliamentary institution. The program also featured textile workshops, such as the creation of arpilleras, a traditional form of social resistance.
The congress will move to Bilbao over the weekend for academic sessions and to reach common conclusions. The agenda includes international speakers who will share their experiences in peacebuilding within conflict-ridden regions.

"We have realized that even though we come from different countries and contexts, we share very similar concepts of reconciliation."

a spokesperson for the organization