Preface
I appreciate the efforts of the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights and its Special Procedures to push for the implementation of the provisions of the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights. This is an endeavor filled with challenges. This report is testament to the spirit and commitment of the Commission. It is my pleasure to write this preface as my contribution to the struggle of African women human rights defenders for an Africa free from violence.
It is true that in spite of the initiatives taken here and there, the situation of women rights defenders in Africa and in the world at large, still remains precarious. Women Human Rights Defenders continue to be victims, of deep inequality, discrimination and abuse. They are frequently the targets of social and political hostility. Specific women's rights legal instruments at the global and regional levels are designed to see the reform and eradication of norms and practices that create and facilitate such violations.
This report highlights the work of women human rights defenders and their leading roles in protecting vulnerable and under-privileged groups. It highlights rights abuses suffered by women. The report speaks directly of those working on gender equality and of the work of women's rights activists in the area of sexual orientation and gender identity. But its scope goes far beyond mere recognition of a problem. It recommends to States Parties to the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights to be visionary and robust in their commitment to ensure the protection of women human rights defenders and the promotion of their work.
