Funding for peace training

An initiative training women in prevention and resolution of conflict will receive up to £300,000 from the Scottish Government.

The money will be used to fund the Beyond Borders programme to allow a further 40 women to be trained. It highlights the need for women to play an equal role in promoting peace and security in conflict affected areas.

It relates to UN resolution 1325, which reaffirms the important role of women in the prevention and resolution of conflicts.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon made the announcement during a panel discussion with Staffan de Mistura, the UN envoy to Syria, and Teresa Whitfield, Director of Policy and Mediation at the United Nations Department of Political Affairs.

The discussion, led by the BBC’s Chief International Correspondent Lyse Doucet, took place at the Beyond Borders Festival at Traquair House in Innerleithen.

The First Minister said:

“There is a human cost to any war and we are seeing that cost laid bare in Syria and the wider Middle East. The images coming out of these countries are horrifying.

“We need the international community to come together and resolve a conflict which has gone on for far too long, and Scotland is doing its part to help in that. By training women in conflict mediation and peace building, they can play a positive role in achieving a settlement shaped by men and women.

“Scotland has a strong and enduring commitment to securing democracy, the rule of law and fundamental human rights across the world. We welcome Beyond Borders’ commitment to making Scotland a place for debate on peaceful conflict resolution and avoidance.”

Staffan de Mistura said:

"I am delighted to see the Scottish Government build upon their commitment to the promotion of UN resolution 1325 with this new 1325 Fellowship programme facilitated by Beyond Borders Scotland.

“Supporting and enhancing the role of women in promoting peace is needed now more than ever all around the world."

Mark Muller Stuart, founder of Beyond Borders Scotland who delivered the programme on behalf of the Scottish Government, and Senior Adviser to the UN Special Envoy, added:

"We are delighted to continue to build upon the successful partnership between the United Nations, the Scottish Government, and Beyond Borders to bring this exceptional group of women to Scotland, harnessing a unique political and cultural history and providing a safe and private space in which to conduct these discussions."

Teresa Whitfield, said:

"The Mediation Support Unit in the UN's Department of Political Affairs is pleased to contribute our expertise to support this initiative, and to continue to work with Beyond Borders Scotland on this 1325 Fellowship programme in Edinburgh and the Scottish Borders."