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Writer's pictureManushya Foundation
Sep 21, 2023

šŸ•ŠļøGlobal Voices for Peace: Embracing Intersectionality on International Peace Day šŸŒ



On September 21st, we commemorate the United Nations International Day of Peace, emphasizing the imperative of embracing a more inclusive and intersectional approach to understanding and championing peace, with a special focus on Southeast Asia.


ā˜®ļøPeace is not merely the absence of conflict but a rich tapestry of justice, equality, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their background, ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation. We explore why this multifaceted lens is vital for fostering lasting peace and prosperity ā–¶ļø


šŸ’¬Peace Beyond Silence šŸ“£


Peace transcends mere silence in the face of violence. In South East Asia, countless marginalized communitiesā€”ethnic minorities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and indigenous peoplesā€”have endured historical and ongoing struggles. At Manushya, we believe that recognizing their voices, stories, and rights is a crucial step towards achieving a more inclusive and equitable peace.


ā™€ļø No Durable Peace without Gender Equality šŸ§•


To achieve lasting peace, we must amplify the voices of women, particularly from marginalized backgrounds, as a just approach to gender justice must be intersectional and decolonial! Women's participation in peace processes is essential, and their experiences can offer innovative solutions to complex challenges.


šŸ³ļøā€šŸŒˆ Inclusivity for LGBTIA+ Communities šŸ’Ŗ


In South East Asia, as elsewhere in the world, the LGBTQIA+ community faces discrimination and violence, often stemming from deeply rooted prejudices. Simultaneously, LGBTQIA+ rights are being branded and used for profit, weaponizing existing inequalities into capitalist exploitative enterprises. In a peaceful society, we must recognize when a portion of the population is denied their fundamental rights and freedoms. Embracing an intersectional approach to peace means acknowledging the struggles and aspirations of LGBTIA+ people and fostering a culture of accountability and true acceptance.


šŸŒ† Raising Sex Workersā€™ Voices for a Safer Society šŸŒŸ


In Thailand, sex work is ILLEGAL, meaning sex workers are disproportionately affected by discriminatory laws and societal biases. Achieving true peace means recognizing the agency and rights of sex workers and advancing towards the decriminalization and destigmatization of their profession. Enabling sex workers to access essential services, free from violence and discrimination, is a crucial step towards a safer and more equitable society.


šŸ§‘ā€šŸŽ“Youth as Ambassadors of Peace šŸŒ


Youth in South East Asia is instrumental in shaping the region's future. Networks like the Milk Tea Alliance (MTA) allow them to become agents of change: by encouraging civil engagement and transparency, the MTA provides a platform for young voices to be heard, helping foster a culture of transparency and democracy that could transcend borders and participate in lasting peace.


šŸŒ³Environmental Justice for Sustainable Peace āš–ļø


Environmental degradation poses a significant threat to peace and stability in the region. Indigenous and forest-dependent communities, often the most vulnerable, are at the forefront of these challenges. Implementing sustainable practices and protecting their rights are crucial steps towards ensuring a peaceful, healthy future.


šŸ’«On this International Day of Peace, let us recommit ourselves to a vision of peace that encompasses the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their background.

In Thailand and beyond, embracing an intersectional feminist perspective and fostering inclusive, equitable societies is not only a moral imperative but also a pathway to sustainable peace.


šŸ¤Together, we can work towards a brighter future, where peace truly knows no bounds.


#WeAreManushyan ā™¾ Equal Human Beings




Sources ā¤µļø



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