Defend International is calling on UN negotiators of the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) to include a legally-binding provision to prevent armed gender-based violence. This global call is aimed at maintaining the momentum created over the last seven years in favor for a strong and an effective Arms Trade Treaty so that the populations of the UN member state benefit from the current debate on the scope and objectives of such a treaty.
Women Human Rights Defenders: Share your Experiences in Africa
The Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders in Africa is seeking input for a report on the challenges faced by women defenders in Africa and their protection needs. Defend International encourages its member organizations and DI Defenders who are regularly engaged in defending women rights in Africa to provide their inputs and experiences into this consultation process. The deadline is 31 December 2012.
Turkey: Rights of Prisoners on Hunger Strike Must be Respected
Defend International is alarmed by reports that hundreds of Kurdish political prisoners in Turkey have started a hunger strike to protest prison conditions, unfair trial practices and racial discrimination while the Turkish authorities continue to deny the prisoners access to qualified medical care.
DI Celebrates 100 Years of International Women’s Day
On the occasion of 2011 International Women’s Day, Defend International is drawing attention to the challenges faced by women in the the Middle East and North Africa. DI urges the authorities in MENA region to respect human rights, in particular the rights of women who are showing courage and participating in the protests.