Speaking at an international conference held in Paris, February 2011, Mary Robinson discusses the relationship between religion, tradition and gender inequality. Citing the issue of child marriage as one example, she argues that promoting the rights of girls and women cannot be imposed on a society; instead, we must support activists working to change their culture from within.

Speaking at the University of Helsinki, Martti Ahtisaari stated his belief that religions play a major role not only in the creation of conflicts, but also in their resolution.