Empowerment of women: Lords debate
11 June 2015
Members of the Lords debated the case for empowering women, including widows, in the developing world, on Thursday 11 June.
The debate considered how empowering women can aid conflict resolution and improve the long-term sustainability of more stable societies.
This was a balloted debate. They usually take place on a Thursday in the chamber. During debates, members are able to put their experience to good use, discussing current issues and drawing the government's attention to concerns.
The debate was requested by Lord Loomba (Liberal Democrat). Speaking ahead of the debate, he said: 'The empowerment of widows to improve their social and economic strength is very important. In many societies they are treated very badly by their in-laws on the death of their husband. It is big problem, not just in one or two countries but around the world.'
Other speakers included:
- Lord Collins of Highbury (Labour), shadow spokesperson for International Development
- Baroness Goudie (Labour), member of the executive and board, Vital Voices Global Partnership
- Baroness Hodgson of Abinger (Conservative), chair of the advisory board of GAPS (Gender Action for Peace and Security)
- Baroness Prosser (Labour), former deputy chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission.
International Development minister, Baroness Verma (Conservative), responded on behalf of the government.
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