25 November 2024, Banjul, the Republic of The Gambia
On this solemn occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (VAW), marked by the theme “Every 10 Minutes, a woman is killed. #NoExcuse. UNiTE to End Violence against Women,” the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Women in Africa, Honourable Commissioner Janet Ramatoulie Sallah-Njie, on behalf of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (the ACHPR), and on her own behalf, is honored to mark and commemorate this day.
Today, we reaffirm our steadfast commitment to eradicating all forms of VAW that continue to impact the lives of women and girls across Africa. This day serves as a critical occasion to renew our collective resolve and call upon all governments, civil society, and individuals to decisively combat all manifestations of VAW.
We stand in unity and solidarity to condemn the pervasive scourge of VAW that continues to plague our societies. Every ten minutes, a woman loses her life to senseless violence. This statistic is not just a number; it represents the tragic reality faced by countless women worldwide. It is a stark reminder of the urgent need to address the root causes of gender-based violence and to work collectively towards a future where every woman can live free from fear and harm.
As we embark on the annual 16 Days of Activism, we must amplify our efforts to combat the ongoing crises that threaten the safety and well-being of women and girls, particularly in regions like Sudan and beyond. The prevalence of femicide, the most extreme form of gender-based violence, underscores the urgent need for decisive action and unwavering commitment to protect and uphold the rights of women.
Our collective resolve is fortified by the unwavering commitment of the ACHPR, as exemplified through its Guidelines on Combatting Sexual Violence and its Consequences in Africa. These Guidelines uphold the due diligence principle, urging States to implement necessary legislative and regulatory measures to prevent, investigate, and prosecute acts of sexual violence by both State and non-state actors. Furthermore, they emphasize the provision of remedies and psychological support for survivors of violence. Notably, these guidelines extend to digital spaces, highlighting the importance of combating digital violence.
In accordance with Resolution ACHPR/Res. 492 (LXIX) 2021, addressing Violence Against Women in Armed Conflicts in Africa, the ACHPR maintains deep concerns about the enduring and pervasive violence inflicted upon women and girls in conflict areas. This Resolution unequivocally denounces all forms of violence, such as rape, sexual slavery, and mutilation, underscoring the deliberate use of sexual violence as a weapon during wartime. Additionally, through Resolution ACHPR/Res. 522 (LXXII) 2022 concerning the Protection of Women against Digital Violence in Africa, the ACHPR underscores its concerns regarding the increasing gender-specific aspects of digital violence.
Given the gravity of these challenges, we advocate for prompt measures to safeguard the lives, dignity, and security of women facing vulnerability in conflict-ridden areas. We implore States Parties to the African Charter that have not yet done so to expedite the ratification and domestication of the Protocol to the African Charter on the Rights of Women in Africa, alongside other pivotal human rights frameworks, ensuring their implementation and monitoring at the domestic level.
The #NoExcuse theme serves as a poignant reminder that there are no valid reasons for VAW. I urge African States to bolster their dedication to eliminating all manifestations of VAW, whether in physical or digital realms. Silence in the presence of these heinous acts is not an option. It is imperative that we come together, speak out, and stand against any violence directed at women and girls. Let us commit to tirelessly striving towards a world where every woman is revered, honored, empowered, and uplifted to lead a life devoid of violence and prejudice.
Together, let us say #NoExcuse for VAW. Let us UNiTE to End VAW!
Honourable Commissioner Janet Ramatoulie Sallah-Njie
Vice-Chairperson and Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Women in Africa of the ACHPR
