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News & Seminars

Workshop #WOMENFORPEACE: Women of Science — For the Building of a World of Peace

2 Jul 2025
Photo: At the #WOMENFOR PEACE Workshop

On November 6th, 2024, the University of Bari hosted the workshop #WomenForPeace, held in memory of Prof. Luigi Borzacchini. Organized by Italian Research Staff Association (ITARSA), International Consortium of Research Staff Associations (ICoRSA), and the Marie Curie Alumni Association (MCAA), this event highlighted the vital role of women in promoting peace, conflict resolution, and global security.

Moderated by Gianna Avellis, Chair of ICoRSA and ITARSA, the workshop brought together scholars, researchers, and peace advocates at a time when armed conflict, climate change, and rapid technological shifts are challenging global stability. Discussions emphasized that women’s inclusion in science, education, and policy is not only a matter of equality, but a strategic pathway to building a more peaceful and resilient world.

Opening remarks were delivered by Prof. Paola Nicchia, Eugenio Scandale (President, Accademia Pugliese delle Scienze), and Ing. Francesco Surico (Director General, InnovaPuglia).

The first keynote speaker, Rita Assogna (UN NGO Committee on Peace, Vienna), spoke on the critical need for women’s full participation in peace and security efforts. Dr. Rosarii Griffin (ICoRSA, UCC) celebrated the contributions of female scientists like Emmanuelle Charpentier, Jennifer Doudna, Katalin Karikó, Tu Youyou, and Vandana Shiva, underscoring their global impact. Sveva Avveduto (CNR, Women20/G7 delegate, ITARSA Board) highlighted women's roles in peace education and literature. During the coffee break, Chiara Manchisi presented Women in Trenches, an exhibition by Rosa Capozzi.

Next, Lucia Martinelli (MUSE, EPWS President) spoke on the power of museums in fostering peace values through cultural education. Prof. Carla Petrocelli (University of Bari, ITARSA) explored Hedy Lamarr’s dual legacy in Hollywood and wartime technology.

Prof. Magda Theodoridou (University of Newcastle) and Jenny Lind Elmaco (MCAA GEDI WG Chair) presented on Marie Curie’s contributions to science diplomacy and peacebuilding. Prof. Anna Maria Candela (University of Bari) discussed the Global Peace Index as a framework to measure peace, while Prof. Angela Corcelli (University of Bari, RUniPace) addressed women’s leadership in disarmament and non-proliferation.

Concluding remarks were shared by Gianna Avellis and Mauricio Cardenas Rodríguez (MCAA Italy Chapter), reinforcing the message: empowering women in science is key to creating a more peaceful, inclusive world.

You can learn more about the workshop and its program here.

UCC Research Staff Association

C/O Hydraulics and Maritime Research Centre, Pouladuff Rd, Togher (UCC Internal)

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