This Protocol was developed to be a compliment to the AU Charter and it recognizes the need for a charter on the rights of women. The charter focuses on violence against women, Harmful Traditional Practices (HTPs) and discrimination against women. Furthermore, it outlines that all African women have a right to life; to dignity, integrity and security of personhood; right to peace; right to participation in the political decision making process; right to education; right to protection from armed conflict; right to adequate housing; right to food security; right to healthy and sustainable environments; widows rights; and right to inheritance. Moreover, it specifically outlines the definition of HTPs and the legal age of marriage as 18 years. This legislation complements the international convention that Ethiopia has already ratified but is the only piece of legislation specifically focuses on the rights of African women.

If ratified it will become a major springboard for protecting Ethiopia women and girls from Gender Based Violence including HTPs and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). The ways to lobby include signing this e-petition, which will be presented to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at the end of January. This is an important piece of legislation and your support will contribution to a reduction in Gender Based Violence in communities across Ethiopia. If you have any questions about the Gender Based Violence campaign please contact the chair Network of Ethiopian Women’s Association (NEWA) at newa@ethionet.et or 251-(0)-11-6187213.

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STOP GENDER BASED VIOLENCE IN ETHIOPIA!