Dar es Salaam’s Commitment to Women Human Rights Defenders: A Step Towards Safety and Empowerment
A Pivotal Announcement
In a significant development for women human rights defenders (WHRDs), the government of Tanzania has reiterated its commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to establish regulations and guidelines aimed at creating a safe and conducive environment for these defenders. This commitment was made by Deputy Minister for Constitution and Legal Affairs Jumanne Sagini during a keynote speech in Dar es Salaam on November 29, coinciding with the global commemoration of International Women Human Rights Defenders Day.
Understanding Women Human Rights Defenders
Women human rights defenders encompass all women and girls engaged in advocacy for human rights, alongside individuals of all genders working to promote women’s rights and gender equality. They play a critical role in amplifying marginalized voices and challenging discrimination, often putting themselves at significant personal risk. Their work includes defending the rights of women and girls, combating environmental degradation, and safeguarding children’s lives.
Responding to Calls for Protection
During the commemoration, Sagini’s remarks came in response to urgent pleas from the Coalition of Women Human Rights Defenders in Tanzania. Maria Matui, the Coalition’s Board Chairperson, shed light on the harsh realities faced by WHRDs, emphasizing the lack of safety and freedom in their operations. “The protection of women human rights defenders is yet to get a system to formalize it,” noted Matui. Her statement highlights a critical gap in protective mechanisms, leaving many defenders vulnerable to various forms of violence and repression as a consequence of their advocacy.
The Role of International Organizations
UN Women also played a prominent role in the event, with Rachel Boma, the Coordinator for Access to Justice, underlining the urgency of creating effective protection measures for human rights defenders. “Women human rights defenders face violence and harassment. There is an urgent need to create protection measures,” she stated, echoing the sentiments shared by Matui regarding the immediate need for safeguards that ensure access to justice for WHRDs.
Celebrating Milestones and Recognizing Challenges
This year’s commemoration was particularly special, as it marked the 5th anniversary of the Coalition of Women Human Rights Defenders in Tanzania. According to Advocate Hilda Stuart Dadu, the Coalition’s Coordinator, the organization began humbly with just nine members in 2019 but has now grown to include 100 members spanning 21 regions across mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar. This growth illustrates not only an increasing awareness of the importance of WHRDs but also a commitment to empowering women in the face of adversity.
Gathering of Supporters
The commemorative event saw participation from various stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Constitution and Legal Affairs, the Commission for Human Rights and Good Governance, the Law Reform Commission, the Coalition’s members, and diplomatic missions such as those from Sweden and Ireland. Collaboration among these entities reflects a collective recognition of the importance of supporting WHRDs in the execution of their vital roles.
Conclusion: A Path Forward
The government’s commitment to working with stakeholders to develop regulations supporting the work of women human rights defenders is a promising step toward ensuring safety and sustainability in their endeavors. As articulated during the commemorations, the cries for help from WHRDs cannot be ignored; there is an immediate need for structured protection mechanisms that empower women defenders to continue their crucial work without fear of persecution.
As the Coalition of Women Human Rights Defenders and its supporters continue their quest for justice and equality, the hope is that these discussions will yield tangible results, creating a safer environment where all women can champion human rights. In embracing their critical role, Tanzania is taking steps not only towards the enhancement of women’s rights but also towards a more just and equitable society for all.