The International Council of Women (ICW) is a women’s organization working across national boundaries for the common cause of advocating human rights for women. In March and April 1888, women leaders came together in Washington D.C. with 80 speakers and 49 delegates representing 53 women organizations from 9 countries: Canada, the United States, Ireland, India, United Kingdom, Finland, Denmark, France and Norway. Women from professional organizations, trade unions, arts groups and benevolent societies also participated. National Women Councils affiliated with the ICW can make themselves heard at the international level through active participation and strong advocacy.
The International Council of Women empowers women through a range of projects and programs designed to help women to help themselves in practical actions including
The International Council of Women takes action through seminars and workshops to develop skills
The International Council of Women elects board members as well as standing committee members, our advisors. During the 36th General Assembly in Avignon, we elected our board for the 2022-2025 term.
Our representatives in United Nations agencies and other International Organizations are designated after each General Assembly for a period of 3 years.
ICW-CIF’s mission statement is to unite National Councils of Women’s non-governmental organizations from all parts of the world for action to improve the status of women and the well-being of society. Only one national council is admitted by country.
The International Council of Women’s main objective is to unite National Councils of women worldwide in common pursuit of:
• Equal rights and responsibilities for women and men
• Peace and understanding through international co-operation, negotiation and reconciliation
• The fuller integration of women as decision-makers in peace-making and peace building efforts
• Human rights for all people
• The elimination of all forms of discrimination
• Sustainable development
• Communication and networking worldwide
