Integrating gender-inclusive approaches in transitional justice processes in Africa
Posted: 26 February, 2024 Filed under: Mary Izobo | Tags: African countries, conflict-related sexual violence, displacement, diverse sexual orientations, empowerment, enforced disappearances, femicide, forced marriages, gender identities, gender norms, gender perspectives, gender-inclusive approaches, human rights violations, patriarchal systems, rights of women and girls, societal transformation, socio-economic discrimination, Transitional Justice, unconstitutional changes Leave a comment
Author: Mary Izobo
International Human Rights Lawyer, Gender Equality Advocate and Governance Expert
During conflict, gender perspectives reveal the divergent impacts felt by all individuals –women, men, vulnerable and marginalised people, and those with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. As a result, transitional justice in African countries must not only acknowledge but also actively engage with these gendered realities, particularly focusing on the experiences of women and girls. In the pursuit of reconciliation and healing, it is crucial to recognize the unique impact of conflicts on women and girls, exacerbated by patriarchal systems. By embracing gender-inclusive approaches within transitional justice, we pave the path towards a fairer, more inclusive society for all.
Unpacking the Race to Zero Campaign and its Impact on the realisation of the right to development in Africa
Posted: 2 February, 2024 Filed under: Elim Shanko | Tags: African Charter of Human and Peoples Rights, climate challenges, climate justice, cyclones, decarbonisation strategy, devastating droughts, development goals, Disaster Risk Reduction reports, energy justice, energy-poor zones, GHG emissions, global crisis, Just Transition, over-consumers, Paris Agreement, Race to Zero Campaign, renewable sources, right to development, sustainable development, sustainable future Leave a comment
Author: Elim Shanko
Sustainable development consultant, RA Consulting
Introduction
The African continent, recently grappling with unprecedented climate challenges, finds itself at the forefront of a global crisis. From devastating droughts to intense cyclones, the impacts have been severe, costing lives and disrupting economies. The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction reports that climate catastrophes cost Africa 12.3% of its GDP between 2015 and 2021. Shockingly, Africa’s 30 deadliest weather disasters have all occurred since 2022, attributing climate change as the primary cause. Thus, the Race to Zero (RtZ) campaign emerges as a key player in the pursuit of a sustainable future. This article critically examines the campaign’s structure and its implications for Africa’s unique challenges, questioning its alignment with principles of climate justice, energy justice, and a just transition and ultimately assessing its impact on the realisation of the right to development.
AfricLaw 