We are very proud of WILPF’s long history of activism and advocacy dating back to 1915. Our pioneer women were part of the international suffrage movement, who, still without the vote, advocated to stop the First World War. Discover our history as we look back on over a century of feminist campaigning and our enduring commitment to peace and freedom.
WILPF’s early history has been researched and written by our published historian Helen Kay. Pat Pleasance and Sheila Triggs have highlighted some of WILPF UK’s most significant campaigning events in the 21st century.
1920s-1930s
WILPF strengthen their peace-building efforts in the face of rising facism
In the 1920s and 1930s, activity centred around a number of campaigning initiatives the Women’s Peace Pilgrimage of 1926; the Peace Crusade of 1928 for a “Parliament of Peacemakers”; the World Disarmament Petition of 1931-2; the League of Nations’ Peace Ballot 1934 -35 and the WILPF Peace Mandate.
1939-1940s
"WILPF work must go on - in spite of war"
WILPF’s continuing promotion of peace by negotiation it lost some members, many preferring to get involved with relief work or supporting the anti-fascist war effort.
2000s Onwards
Campaigning in the 21st century
WILPF’s centenary Congress was held 22-25 April 2015 in the Academy building adjoining the Peace Palace of The Hague, Netherlands.
Learn about pioneering WILPF women
Celebrating our history
In 2014, WILPF UK and Clapham Film Unit launched the Heritage Lottery-funded project, These Dangerous Women, to honour the women who founded the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom (WILPF) during WWI. The project involved training WILPF members and young volunteers in research and oral history skills, resulting in an exhibition, booklet, and documentary film directed by Charlotte Bill.
In grateful memory
Over the years WILPF UK has gained strength from the advocacy, the day-to-day campaigning, and the feminist analysis of a number of good women. When they are no longer with us, we have celebrated their work in WILPF and in our communities. We remind you here of some recent members.
