LAHORE: (Monday, December 24, 2012): Punjab University Department of Gender Studies (DGS) hosted a seminar on “Peace Within” in collaboration with Shirakat, WAR and Action Aid Lahore. The speakers included Mr. Salman Asif, Gender Advisor Bilquis Tahira, Executive Director, Shirakat, Kishwar Sultana, Executive Director, Insan Foundation (IFT), DGS chairperson Prof. Dr Samar Fatima and senior faculty member Dr Raana Malik. A large number of students and members of civil society were also present on the occasion. The speakers highlighted the importance of peace and role of different state and non-state actors in promotion of peace and equality in the society. Mr. Salman said that the division of society in classes was the main source of conflicts that had created differences and distances among people. He said that sustainable and effective efforts for promotion of peace could only be achieved through elimination of inequality and class-divisions from the society. Ms. Bilquis Tahira raised the issue of physical violence against women that was detriment to peace for individuals and society at large. She said that awareness and availability of social support system could effectively address the issues of violence in society. Ms. Kishwar highlighted the role of civil society organizations in peace. Dr. Raana Malik stressed the need to make implementation of laws and legislations that could play a crucial part in bringing peace in the society. The seminar was closed with the interactive discussion on role of different stakeholders in achieving peace in the society.