Essaouira played host on September 19 and 20 to the second edition of the World Forum of Women for Peace, an event driven by the movement known as the Warriors of Peace—recently nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. More than 450 participants from across the globe gathered in this historic coastal city, creating a powerful space for dialogue, solidarity, and activism.
Essaouira, with its layered heritage of Jewish, Muslim, Berber, and European cultures, provided a poignant setting for the forum’s message. André Azoulay, advisor to King Mohammed VI, opened the event by emphasizing the city’s unique role as a living example of peace through coexistence and identity dialogue.
Over the course of two days, women from countries as varied as Iran, Palestine, Israel, Morocco, Afghanistan, and Senegal shared personal stories of struggle, resilience, and hope. Their testimonies reflected both the pain of conflict and the strength born from resistance. One of the most memorable voices was that of Palestinian activist Huda Abu Arqob, who declared, “Our fight is to transform pain into action and into hope.” Moroccan sociologist Soumaya Naamane Guessous also addressed the audience, urging recognition of the everyday efforts women make in building more just and stable societies.
The impact of the forum extended far beyond Morocco’s borders. Hanna Assouline, founder of the Warriors of Peace and president of the forum, traveled this week to New York alongside French President Emmanuel Macron for the UN General Assembly. Her presence is particularly significant as France debates whether to formally recognize the State of Palestine—an act that would carry symbolic weight and has the backing of many of the forum’s activists.
Founded in 2022, the Warriors of Peace is a growing international movement advocating for equality, justice, and the inclusion of marginalized voices. Its mission centers on one unwavering belief: without genuine dialogue, there can be no lasting peace. In conflict zones where both human rights and women’s rights are under constant threat, this movement continues to push for a world in which peace is not just declared—but built, shared, and sustained.
