The Eleventh of 21 ways women have redefined the world: advocate for peace

Bertha von Suttner and Malala Yousafzai are two remarkable women who, through their courage and determination, have made significant contributions to society, particularly in the realms of peace and education.

Bertha von Suttner was a pioneering Austrian pacifist and the first woman to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1905. Her most influential work, “Lay Down Your Arms” (Die Waffen nieder!), published in 1889, was a powerful anti-war novel that depicted the horrors of war and called for disarmament and peaceful resolution of conflicts. The novel had a profound impact on the peace movement in Europe. Suttner’s advocacy extended beyond her writing; she co-founded the Austrian Peace Society and was a prominent figure in the International Peace Bureau. Her tireless efforts helped to establish the foundations for modern peace movements and inspired countless individuals to strive for a world without war.

Malala Yousafzai is a Pakistani education activist and the youngest-ever Nobel Prize laureate, awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014. Malala gained international recognition after surviving an assassination attempt by the Taliban in 2012, at the age of 15, for her advocacy of girls’ education in Pakistan’s Swat Valley. Despite the attack, Malala continued her activism with even greater determination. She co-authored the memoir “I Am Malala,” which brought global attention to the plight of millions of girls denied education. Her efforts have significantly impacted the global movement for girls’ education, inspiring policymakers, activists, and young people around the world.

Both Bertha von Suttner and Malala Yousafzai have made indelible marks on society through their dedication to peace and education. Their lives and work continue to inspire generations to pursue justice, equality, and a better world for all.

Inspired from the story by Sarah Griffin published in msn.com.