Conflict and COVID 19 has Increased Human Trafficking in Mali
The conflict and the existing pandemic have left children exploited and abused by the armed group in Mali. The pandemic has worsened social, economic conditions, leading to an upsurge of children trafficking in Mali. The conflict and the pandemic have also caused an increase in child marriage at a very early age because families can’t cope.
Further Details: https://www.voanews.com/africa/conflict-and-covid-trigger-upsurge-mali-child-trafficking
ICC calls for Investigation in War Crimes committed by Boko Haram
The conflict in North-East Nigeria has claimed the lives of over 30,000 people in the region. Following a decade long investigation into the violence, the International Criminal Court has concluded that the court has a criterion for opening an investigation into war crimes against the terrorist group. The court also said the Nigerian government needed to be investigated for it’s for the crimes they had committed.
Further Details: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-55277712
Eritrean Refugees may be caught in the Ethiopian conflict
UNHCR has revealed disturbing reports of an overwhelming number of Eritrean refugees been killed, kidnapped and forcibly returned to Eritrea by the Tigray forces. Aid agencies such as Danish Refugee Council assisting the Eritrean refugees have been killed while trying to protect refugees. Also, the Tigray region has restricted access to Eritrea which has made it difficult to protect the refugees.
Further Details https://www.gulftoday.ae/opinion/2020/12/12/un-fears-for-eritreans-caught-in-ethiopian-conflict
https://www.voanews.com/africa/ethiopia-says-forces-fired-un-team-embattled-tigray-region
Kenyan Court Orders Compensations for Rape Victims from 13 Years Ago
The government of Kenya has been ordered by one of its high Court to compensate four victims of sexual Abuse perpetuated by security agents of the state during a post-election violence 13 years ago. The government was sued by eight women all victims of sexual abuse on behalf of other women that has been raped during the post-election violence, for neglect.
Further Details: https://apnews.com/article/international-news-kenya-violence-elections-dfb960a5e851e4ac923963641002b73b
The lives of Women Human Rights Defenders at Risk in Libya
The lives and safety of Women Human Rights Defenders are under threat in Libya as there has been increased violence against women rights defenders, death threats and even some are killed in the process. Reports have surfaced that they do face increased threats, criminalization and abduction and enforced disappearance from government agents.
Further Details: https://www.hrw.org/news/2020/12/11/together-we-must-protect-and-support-whrds-middle-east-and-north-africa
The Rights of Women and Girls are Precarious in North Africa
Ambiguous laws and policies gaps are perpetuating lifelong discrimination against women and girls in North Africa. A report titled the Protection of Young Women and Girls in the Middle East and North Africa, has found that despite progress in the region, the challenges that face women is dangerous and guaranteeing equality for women before the law is nowhere in sight. Though constitutions give room for equality of all citizens, legal loopholes and exoneration of perpetuators of sexual and gender-based violence is hindering women and adolescent girls from enjoying their rights.
Further Details: https://en.ammonnews.net/article/45141
Malawi President impose strict measures against perpetuators of GBV
Violence against women have been a serious pandemic but the pandemic has exacerbated the issues around GBV. Statistics from GBV in African countries are alarming. In Malawi, the President has called for stricter laws against perpetuators of GBV as the figures of victims are alarming. He announced that the ministry of Justice, Gender and his administration will amend the relevant legislation including the criminal procedures and evidence code to fast-track stiffer mandatory penalties for perpetuators.
Further Details: https://www.voanews.com/africa/malawi-president-announces-strict-measures-against-perpetrators-gender-based-violence
