HDNet's 'Dan Rather Reports' Presents an In-Depth Discussion on Women and the Peace Process

Tomorrow night's "Dan Rather Reports,"  will present an in-depth conversation with women on new ideas for peace in a world full of conflict.  Rather poses the questions, "Can women stop war? Can empowered women lead us in new directions for peace?"  The answers may surprise you. 

Rather talks to Former US Ambassador to Austria, Swanee Hunt, and four women from countries that have struggled to make peace – Pakistan, Lebanon, Rwanda and Bosnia and Herzegovina.  As extremism increases the consequences can be felt around the globe.  Women in leadership positions are stepping up to counter radicalism with fresh ideas.

Ambassador Hunt tells Rather the road to peace lies through women, "When we say, 'inclusive security,' what we're saying is that if you're going to have real long-term stabilization, then you've got to include – that's the inclusive part – you've got to include the different stakeholders, the different experts in the society."

Through her non-profit organization Ambassador Hunt founded the Institute for Inclusive Security: a global outreach that gets women actively involved in resolving conflict.  She brings women to the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University where she teaches a course in public policy where they hone their skills to become better leaders back at home. 

Recent experience demonstrates that having women at the negotiating table can bring faster, more comprehensive agreements – especially in conflict resolutions. And studies show women spend money differently than men - choosing to invest funds back in the family.

During the month of March, Women's History Month, "Dan Rather Reports" will feature several segments exploring the role of women in today's society and will examine how empowering women – especially in developing nations – can benefit everyone. 

Tuesday's episode will show how women's unique perspectives can help solve some of our biggest problems including war and poverty.   Rather will moderate two panel discussions with women leaders, the first featuring women from countries recovering from genocide.  The second panel will host women from countries with ongoing conflict.  Former Ambassador Swanee Hunt will be joining both panels.

"Dan Rather Reports – a Discussion on Women, Peace and Politics," airs Tuesday, March 2, at 8:00 p.m. ET.