Women building peace in London
September 29, 2025
The Storytellers Forum was recently held at Saint Paul’s Church in London. The event, organized by Empower Women Media and the Abraham Women Alliance in partnership with the Combat Antisemitism Movement, brought together female leaders and organizations from the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia, and Europe. It was the first forum of its kind in London. Shirin Taber, founder of Empower Women Media, opened the meeting. She highlighted the crucial role of education in promoting religious freedom and interreligious dialogue. The fight against hatred and the growing antisemitism in Europe and the United States were also central themes.
Powerful Voices for Change
The heart of the forum consisted of three panel discussions and the screening of four films. Shannon Seban, EU Advisor for the Combat Antisemitism Movement, spoke about the urgent need to address radicalism and hate speech in France and Europe. She advocated for more dialogue between different population groups.
Manel Msalmi, women’s rights defender and researcher, highlighted the work of human rights defenders in the Arab and Muslim world. They are committed to fighting extremism, discrimination, and antisemitism. Through an Arab talk show, she provides a platform for journalists and researchers who oppose these problems.
The Situation in Sudan
Fathia Elbushary, founder of Sudanese Women of Peace (SWOP), brought attention to the dire situation in her home country. She used her platform to speak about the threat posed by radical Islamism to women’s rights and minorities. For her, awareness is the first step toward change. She is committed to enabling women to play an active role in building peace, unity, and stability in Sudan. Sudanese women are currently leading humanitarian response efforts, despite being disproportionately affected by hunger, violence, and exclusion from aid delivery. The healthcare system has collapsed in many areas, making pregnancies a major risk.
Practical Support
The forum not only outlined problems but also solutions. Practical ways to support women in Sudan include establishing legal clinics, securing education for girls, and economic empowerment through microcredit. Better healthcare, leadership training, and the safe use of social media for activism are also essential. Support for survivors of conflict-related violence and engaging in religious dialogue that emphasizes gender equality complete the approach.
The forum concluded with a powerful message: women in the Middle East and beyond play a key role in peacebuilding and the fight against oppression and extremism. Their resilience and leadership are indispensable for a peaceful future.
Sources:
Speech by Fathia Elbushary, founder of Sudanese Women of Peace (SWOP)
Press Release: “The Storytellers forum in London highlights the role of women in peace and security”
Document: “Some Practical Ways to Support Muslim Women in Sudan”
Document: “The Suffering of Sudanese Women and Pathways to Empowerment for Leadership”
Andy Vermaut +32499357495