Supporting and Amplifying WHRDs

In the global fight for human rights, social justice, and equity, Women Human Rights Defenders (WHRDs) play a pivotal role. Their tireless efforts range from championing gender equality and combating discrimination to defending the environment, rendering their contributions indispensable. However, they equally face many challenges that are often overlooked and rarely addressed.

These challenges and violations are often reinforced and exacerbated by societal stereotypes and discrimination. Among them;

Gender-specific Attacks

This may range from gendered verbal abuse often experienced by women in the public space (politicians, activists, journalists, influencers) to online comments about their bodies or personal relationships aimed at tarnishing their reputations. The term "feminist" is also often wielded as a derogatory label, characterising WHRDs as unscrupulous individuals.

Online and Offline Gender-Based Violence

WHRDs are subjected to online and physical violence, with threats often extending to their children and other loved ones. This pervasive violence creates a constant atmosphere of fear and intimidation, hindering and deterring WHRDs from carrying out their work effectively.

Infringement on Press Freedoms

The State of Media Freedom and Safety of Journalists in Africa Report documents attacks that include killings, torture, enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests and detention, intimidation, and online harassment of journalists and media practitioners.

Uganda female journalists reported online sexual harassment, age shaming, character assassination, and body shaming. Adding that this abuse had driven them off social media or taken a toll on their mental health.?

Absence of Protection Mechanisms

The absence of dedicated mechanisms, including legislation, to ensure their safety and well-being. WHRDs often find themselves without adequate support systems. They are left to navigate dangerous territory alone, without the necessary safeguards to shield them from threats and violence.

Lack of Access to Financial Resources

The efforts of WHRDs are frustrated? by a lack of access to dedicated funding by governments to support and legitimize their work. This issue is particularly pronounced among grassroots organisations and individual activists.?

Addressing these unique challenges faced by WHRDs requires concerted efforts to dismantle societal barriers, provide comprehensive support systems to ensure their safety and well-being, and continue advocacy for human rights and gender equality. ?