The Nobel Women’s Initiative supports our sisters in Costa Rica who are courageously fighting for gender equality, the foundation of peace and democracy. We especially commend the work of the Women against the Free Trade Agreement (Mujeres contra el TLC) for their growing mobilization of the citizens of Costa Rica in opposition to the ratification of CAFTA (Central American Free Trade Agreement).  An estimated 1000 women participated in a day of action, which was appropriately named The Power of No, on Saturday, 29 September.  Among the activities was a space for dialogue, which was specially created as a means to distribute information regarding the Referendum on CAFTA, which will take place 7 October 2007.

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For more information on the national women’s day against CAFTA, go to:
The power of No: Costa Rican women adding power to the No, Feminist International Radio Endeavor FIRE, 14 September 2007

Nobel Women’s Initiative statement of solidarity with the Women Against CAFTA

(excerpt) As women Nobel Laureates, we express our firm solidarity with the women of Costa Rica who on many occasions have affirmed their collective commitment to democracy, gender equality and peace . We are inspired by women’s courageous and powerful role in the growing citizen mobilization for democracy and wellbeing. We find these struggles particularly hopeful in a global context where violence and discrimination against women is growing.

We renounce violence in particular violence that targets women as women. The everyday actions that women take to lead their lives with dignity and security encourage us, and we wish to help ensure that their rights and the rights of their communities are respected and upheld. We recognize and stand with the women activists who suffer threats and persecution for their work to build a more just and equitable society.

We are inspired by the extraordinary levels of organization and leadership among Costa Rican women who have come together to support the struggle against CAFTA. We also congratulate our sisters on the recent victories: These advances are the product of their collective commitment and courageous mobilization. Across the Americas we have seen severe setbacks for women’s rights, yet their persistence and their achievements give us hope and inspiration to continue our own struggles.

Download the pdf of this statement in English here.
Download the pdf of this statement in Spanish here.

Update: On October 7, a national referendum in Costa Rica voted to ratify CAFTA. Mujeres Contra el TLC are refusing to accept the results and have announced their intention to continue their struggle.