We asked women living through war and conflict: “If there were peace in your country today, what’s the first thing you would do?” Their answers are simple, yet profound: rebuilding homes, sleeping without fear, growing a small business, or hugging loved ones without worry. From Gaza to South Sudan, from the DRC to Ukraine, these voices remind us what true peace means: safety, dignity, and the chance to rebuild life with hope.
Women share what they would do if there were peace in their country...
"I would rebuild my house and live in it with my children."
- Widow, mother of four, displaced in Khan Younis, Gaza
"I would cherish the freedom to move safely so I can continue my business."
- Nsimire Esther, Kidjaga, DRC
"I would sleep deeply every night. I would no longer go to bed with anxiety and fear of the shelling."
- Hanan, 22, Gaza
"I’d breathe out and hug my loved ones without fear. I’d travel across Ukraine to see our team and the women we support — not because of war, but because of life, joy, and rebuilding together."
- Anna, our partner in Ukraine, from the Andreiev Family Foundation
"Peace means assisting families in need and spreading a culture of love and awareness."
- Mai Abbas Ali, Volunteer, Sudanese Family Planning Association, Sudan
The answers to this simple question reveal something powerful: when women imagine peace, they speak of safety, opportunity, dignity, and everyday moments of normal life.
Their words remind us that peace is not only negotiated in meeting rooms, but built through the hopes, needs and leadership of women in their communities. Listening to these voices and ensuring women are included at every level of peacebuilding is essential to creating a future where peace is lasting, inclusive and shaped by those who know its value most.
