Women around the world are on the frontlines paving the way for peace in their communities every day. These women display leadership, courage, resourcefulness and a willingness to sacrifice for others. The U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) co-hosted a panel event featuring seven recipients of the 2014 International Women of Courage (IWOC) Awards on Wednesday, March 5th from 11:00 am to 12:45 pm at USIP. Through this annual award, the United States honors the endeavors of extraordinary women worldwide who have played transformative roles in their societies.

This program was the only opportunity for the public to hear the individual stories from each award recipient, and to learn firsthand of the invaluable role women play in conflict management and peacebuilding. This public event featured welcoming remarks, followed by a moderated panel session with the awardees.

View the biographies of all the 2014 International Women of Courage Award Winners. Join the conversation on Twitter with #IWOCatUSIP.

Kristin Lord, Welcoming Remarks
U.S. Institute of Peace

Stephenie Foster, Introductory Remarks
U.S. Department of State

Kathleen Kuehnast, Moderator
U.S. Institute of Peace

Panelists: 2014 International Women of Courage Award Winners

Dr. Nasrin Oryakhil
Afghanistan

Ms. Roshika Deo
Fiji

Bishop Rusudan Gotsiridze
Georgia

Judge Iris Yassmin Barrios Aguilar
Guatemala

Ms. Fatimata Touré
Mali

Ms. Oinikhol Bobonazarova
Tajikistan

Ms. Beatrice Mtetwa
Zimbabwe