A panel discussion featuring international women from Bangladesh, China, Palestine, India, and Latin America will take place Saturday as part of the first monthly meeting of the local branch of the American Association of University Women.

“The main areas discussed will be family, economic and social issues.” said Erin Blitz, publicity chair for the association.

“All of these issues can affect a woman’s ability to receive higher education and each country has a different story to tell.”

Louise Vassey, association membership vice president, said the panel discussion, “Issues Facing International Women,” is being held in conjunction with the International Federation of University Women.

“This year’s focus is on women’s fight for equality. Even though we have equal job and education opportunities here in the United States, women internationally are still struggling for equality,” she said.

The AAUW has chapters in all 50 states, and has been in the Charleston-Mattoon area for over 50 years, Vassey said. The organization as a whole has been present since the 1800’s.

“These meetings are to raise awareness, in this country and in other countries, of the troubles for women in education,” Blitz said.

The AAUW is not only concerned with American women and their trials in the education field. Blitz said the association is also interested in international women who strive for higher education.

The association holds meetings once a month during the school year, she said.

The discussion will take place at 10 a.m. Saturday, at the Newman Catholic Center, 500 Roosevelt Ave., and is open to the public.