Women Human Rights Defenders Day

Women human rights defenders (WHRDs) include women defending all human rights as well as all those who defend the rights of women and work on issues related to gender equality. WHRDs make a vital contribution to democratic processes, securing and maintaining peace, and ensuring security, development and respect for human rights in our communities. However, in doing this work, they can face a range of violations and abuses – including gender-based violence – at the hands of State and non-State actors.

During the 16 days of activism against gender violence marked globally between 25th November and 10th December every year, and around Women Human Rights Defenders Day on 29th November, the East and Horn of Africa Human Rights Defenders Network and Pan-African Human Rights Defenders Network will be honouring the work of WHRDs across the continent. Each day we will profile the work of a woman human rights defender from Africa or highlight resources that are useful for their work.

Visit, http://www.defenddefenders.org for list of events, statements and actions during WHRD Day.