The programme targets populations in situations of political instability and armed conflict, and bases its activities on the assumption that conflicts can be ended and just and equitable societies created through peace education, which teaches people non-violent conflict resolution and raises general awareness about democratic principles. Women are perceived to be particularly instrumental in peace-building, reconciliation and social reconstruction, and therefore many of the programme 's activities target women. Some of its country projects provide training in peace education to women, attempting to strengthen their traditional capacities as mediators in family and community conflicts. Rural community radio stations are now being established throughout the Caribbean, Asia and Africa, to enable women to seek advice from each other and to share their experiences with other women under similar circumstances. The local radio stations initiate and transmit discussions on peace and reconciliation, disseminate information on human rights and on various social issues, such as health and hygiene, or raise questions relating to the protection of economic livelihoods.
Literacy is considered a condition for political, economic and social reform.
Many of the women who enrolled in the mother tongue classes in the Namibian project soon also wanted to learn English, as this would improve their social standing and enhance their chances of self-employment. In Mozambique , for example, the return of more than a million refugees after the peace agreement soon generated jealousy and suspicion among those who had stayed behind, as the returnees were judged privileged. The programme does not focus exclusively on women in situations of armed conflict and post-conflict reconstruction, although this is a major concern. The assumption was that health care could be a uniting and integrating force. People from various communities and from different relevant state institutions were involved in working groups that aimed to identify and implement local health agendas.