Join Zonta International for three thought-provoking and engaging sessions examining the experiences of women in conflict and the critical role of women peacebuilders in shaping pathways toward peace.

The Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women 2026 Summit will explore how conflict, war and political instability affect women and girls in distinct and often disproportionate ways. At the same time, the Summit will move beyond narratives of victimhood to recognize women as agents of change—leaders, advocates and peacebuilders working to transform their communities and contribute to more sustainable and inclusive peace.

Across three sessions, participants will hear directly from women and experts with experiences from conflict-affected contexts, including Ukraine, Afghanistan and other regions around the world. The program will feature:

• A keynote address offering a deeply personal perspective on navigating conflict and its consequences, presented in an intimate, TED Talk-style format.
• A global panel discussion bringing together diverse voices to examine the gendered dimensions of conflict, the realities facing women in affected communities and the contributions of women peacebuilders.
• An artistic interactive session creating an opportunity for participants to engage with the themes of the Summit through reflection, creativity and shared expression.

Together, these sessions will examine the complex relationship between conflict, gender-based violence and peacebuilding while creating space for dialogue about the role of women’s leadership in building more peaceful and equitable societies.

Participants will be invited not only to listen, but to reflect on how advocacy, solidarity and collective action can contribute to advancing women’s rights and strengthening efforts to prevent and address violence against women and girls.

Please check out our Advocacy Tools webpage to access the recordings of the 2025 Summit sessions.