CFUW and IFUW members at the 58th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women in March 2014.
The Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW) is a non-partisan, voluntary, self-funded organization with over 100 CFUW Clubs located in every province across Canada. Since its founding in 1919, CFUW has been working to improve the status of women, and to promote human rights, public education, social justice, and peace.
CFUW is the largest affiliate of the International Federation of University Women (IFUW), the leading girls’ and women’s global organization run by and for women, advocating for women’s rights, equality and empowerment through access to quality education and training up to the highest levels.
CFUW advocates for policy changes at the federal level and encourages its member Clubs across the country to work with their local politicians and communities to advance the mission of the organization. CFUW determines its policy position on issues through a grassroots resolution process that engages members at the local level and by a vote at its Annual General Meeting.
The promotion of peace and security is a key aspect of CFUW’s advocacy, with members supporting policy resolutions related to women, peace and security, peace education, peacekeeping and banning landmines. The CFUW was a founding member of the Women, Peace and Security Network – Canada in 2012 and continues to be actively involved in the network.
The WPSN-C is a great way for CFUW to stay “plugged in” to women, peace and security issues globally, and to keep on top of how the Government of Canada is implementing and promoting women’s participation in peacebuilding. This enables CFUW to keep its membership informed and to decide when to encourage stronger action from the Canadian government.
For instance, due to its participation in the WPSN-C and knowledge gained through this network, CFUW has called for the Government of Canada to ensure that Afghan women have an integral role in creating lasting peace in their country, including meaningful participation in Afghanistan’s peace talks.
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If you would like to join the WPSN-C or have questions regarding membership, please email us at wpsncanada@gmail.com or visit the Become a Member page.