For Immediate Release, October 7, 2011
Contact: Allison Sturma, 202-429-4725

(Washington) – The United States Institute of Peace congratulates President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Leymah Gbowee and Tawakul Karman for earning the 2011 Nobel Peace Prize.

"The Nobel Peace Prize awarded today is shared by three extraordinary women peacemakers," commented Kathleen Kuehnast, director of USIP's Gender and Peacebuilding Center of Innovation. "They exemplify the goal of U.N. Security Council Resolution 1325 assertion that women must be key actors in peacebuilding processes. The recognition of these leaders sends a message to both men and women around the world that together we can bring effective and innovative approaches to non-violent change and improve the lives of all."

Speaking at the Institute in June, President Johnson Sirleaf brushed aside a comment about her role as a role model to women, focusing more on the work that still needed to be done to combat gender-based violence and equality in Liberia.

In her speech, President Johnson Sirleaf stressed the economic gains and the strengthening of democracy in Liberia, but cautioned "In Liberia, as elsewhere in Africa, our gains are fragile. Our institutions must be rebuilt, reformed and sustained through the shifting winds of politics and the dynamics of change."

Also, Tawakul Karmen, head of Women Journalists Without Chains, participated in an event at USIP in June with other opposition leaders to discuss the future of Yemen.

Additional Resources

• Liberia: Through the Eyes of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Event Summary and Audio Recording
• The Future of Yemen, Event Audio Recording
• Gender, Conflict, and Peacebuilding, USIP Peaceworks
• Women and War: Power and Protection in the 21st Century, USIP Book
   

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The United States Institute of Peace is the independent, nonpartisan conflict management center created by Congress to prevent and mitigate international conflict without resorting to violence. USIP saves lives, increases the government’s ability to deal with conflicts before they escalate, reduces government costs, and enhances national security.  USIP is headquartered in Washington, DC.  To learn more visit www.usip.org.