In the face of increased insecurity and violence against defensoras in Mesoamerica, JASS and allies have joined forces on a regional WHRD initiative to strengthen women’s knowledge and strategies against violence, and engage regional and international human rights mechanisms to put pressure on governments to take action. In December 2010, the UN Special Rapporteur released a report addressing for the first time the struggles specific to women defenders, drawing on research produced by JASS Mesoamerica and our regional and international partners.
In a new report to the UN General Assembly, the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders touched on the struggles of women human rights defenders (WHRDs) and activists promoting women’s rights. The report draws on research produced by JASS Mesoamerica and regional partners through our initiative to address the escalating violence against women activists in the region.
Congrats to the coordinator of this effort, Marusia Lopez, and our allies (including AWID) for their commitment to putting the spotlight on the violence and insecurity women face in their struggles for justice.
