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Women

Reporting, analysis and field notes from a pan-African feminist network — across women's rights, SRHR, civic space, climate justice, peace and security.

All Women's Rights 525 PUBLICATIONS ET ARTICLES 248 Human Rights 233 Harmful Practices 92 Climate Justice 80 Economic Justice 79 PEACE AND SECURITY 57 Benin 20 Sénégal 19 Articles RFLGD 12 Niger 11 Togo 11 Burkina Faso 10 Justice Économique 10 Mali 10 GUINEE 10 Côte d'Ivoire 9 Non classifié(e) 8 RFLD’s Strategic Plan 6 DEVELOPMENT 3 Charity 3 MGF 3 Inspiration 2 Blog 2 Science 1

Consultation on Civic Space and Capacity Strengthening for Advocacy initiatives with ACHPR and UN HRC Special Mechanisms

Human Rights

April 15, 2025 Africa

Consultation on Civic Space and Capacity Strengthening for Advocacy initiatives with ACHPR and UN HRC Special Mechanisms

RFLD is set to host the West Africa Universal Periodic Review Training and Advocacy Capacity Strengthening for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) from April 23 to 25, 2025, in Porto Novo, Benin. Partnering with CIVICUS, this program aims to support 25 selected CSOs in addressing ongoing challenges in civic space, despite legal frameworks for fundamental freedoms. Key objectives include gathering stakeholder insights on civic space trends and enhancing understanding of laws and good practices. The training will cover various topics, aiming to strengthen advocacy skills and inter-institutional collaboration, thus promoting a healthier civic environment across the region.

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Publication Disponible : “Pluralité et Pouvoir : Les Femmes dans les Instances Décisionnelles en Afrique de l’Ouest”

Women's Rights

March 25, 2025 Africa

Publication Disponible : “Pluralité et Pouvoir : Les Femmes dans les Instances Décisionnelles en Afrique de l’Ouest”

Le Réseau des Femmes Leaders pour le Développement (RFLD) a publié un rapport intitulé “Pluralité et Pouvoir : Les Femmes dans les Instances Décisionnelles en Afrique de l’Ouest”. Cette étude examine en détail la représentation des femmes en politique dans la région, mettant en lumière les obstacles qui freinent leur participation, tels que les stéréotypes de genre et les barrières économiques. Le rapport offre des solutions pour améliorer cette participation, comme l’instauration de quotas, la formation des femmes leaders et la sensibilisation du public. Il appelle à l’action pour promouvoir l’égalité des genres et inclure les femmes dans la vie politique.

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Data-Driven Advocacy: RFLD’s Strategic Communication for Policy Influence in the Sahel and West Africa

Women's Rights

March 24, 2025 Africa

Data-Driven Advocacy: RFLD’s Strategic Communication for Policy Influence in the Sahel and West Africa

The Réseau des Femmes Leaders pour le Développement (RFLD) is dedicated to advancing Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) and Family Planning in the Sahel and West Africa through data-driven policy advocacy. RFLD emphasizes the importance of reliable, gender-responsive data to identify the needs of women and inform policies. By collaborating with various stakeholders, including government officials, RFLD promotes gender-responsive budgeting and legislative reforms that enhance women’s rights. The organization also focuses on building a sustainable movement by mentoring young women leaders and integrating issues like climate change into its strategies, striving for long-term empowerment and social justice.

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RFLD’s Strategic Capacity Building for SRHR and FP in the Sahel and West Africa

Women's Rights

March 24, 2025 Africa

RFLD’s Strategic Capacity Building for SRHR and FP in the Sahel and West Africa

Réseau des Femmes Leaders pour le Développement (RFLD) focuses on enhancing the capacity of civil society organizations (CSOs), women’s rights organizations (WROs), and youth organizations in Sahel and West Africa to advocate for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) and Family Planning (FP). Through training, RFLD equips these entities with skills to utilize the Maputo Protocol Scorecard and engage with African human rights systems. Their approach emphasizes inclusivity, particularly for marginalized groups, and fosters leadership development among youth. RFLD’s comprehensive strategies aim to create sustainable advocacy movements, promote accountability, and leverage technology to ensure SRHR and FP rights are upheld throughout the region.

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Spotlighting Women’s Leadership for Political Equality in Benin: RFLD Grant Empowers REFELA

Women's Rights

March 14, 2025 Africa

Spotlighting Women’s Leadership for Political Equality in Benin: RFLD Grant Empowers REFELA

Benin is grappling with the underrepresentation of women in local political positions. In response, REFELA-Benin, supported by a grant from RFLD, has initiated a documentary to highlight the contributions of women leaders at the local level. In 2020, only 81 women were elected out of 1,815 councilors, with minimal representation in key positions, such as mayors and deputy mayors. The documentary aims to showcase successful female politicians, inspire future leaders, and encourage broader female political participation by raising awareness and challenging gender stereotypes. REFELA-Benin and RFLD are dedicated to women’s empowerment and long-term representation in local politics.

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Building in West and Central Africa: Mobilizing Women and Youth for Peace and Resilience Against Disinformation, Misinformation and malinformation

PEACE AND SECURITY

March 3, 2025 Africa

Building in West and Central Africa: Mobilizing Women and Youth for Peace and Resilience Against Disinformation, Misinformation and malinformation

The rise of digital platforms in West and Central Africa has significantly transformed how information is disseminated, leading to both increased access and the rampant spread of disinformation. Various stakeholders, particularly women and youth, are mobilizing to combat misleading narratives through collective actions aimed at promoting community resilience and safeguarding democratic integrity. Disinformation, characterized by false information intended to deceive, poses severe implications for social harmony and electoral processes, necessitating educational initiatives focused on media literacy. Cooperation among civil society, media professionals, and local organizations is essential for combating misinformation, enhancing transparency, and fostering trust in institutions.

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Pour une société inclusive : Le rôle des Députés et du Gouvernement dans la protection des femmes au Bénin

Women's Rights

February 25, 2025 Africa

Pour une société inclusive : Le rôle des Députés et du Gouvernement dans la protection des femmes au Bénin

L’égalité des sexes et la protection des droits des femmes sont essentielles pour le développement socio-économique du Bénin. Le gouvernement a pris des mesures significatives lors des 8e et 9e Législatures en adoptant des lois visant à lutter contre les discriminations et la violence basée sur le genre. Malgré les progrès, des défis persistent, tels que l’inégalité d’accès à l’éducation et aux soins de santé, ainsi qu’une faible représentation politique des femmes. Les initiatives législatives ont été soutenues par des engagements internationaux, mais il est crucial d’assurer leur mise en œuvre et de changer les normes culturelles pour garantir une société plus inclusive et respectueuse des droits des femmes.

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RFLD Subgrantees Testimonies in 2024 (French)

Women's Rights

February 20, 2025 Africa

RFLD Subgrantees Testimonies in 2024 (French)

La subvention du RFLD a soutenu plusieurs initiatives sociales, allant de la distribution de kits scolaires aux écoliers orphelins par l’Union des Étudiants pour le Développement d’Ifangni, à des activités sportives pour les filles de l’INJEPS. Les ONG comme CADID, CRADIL et Nature Plurielle ont utilisé ces fonds pour améliorer la santé communautaire, sensibiliser sur les violences faites aux femmes, et intégrer l’apiculture pour l’autonomisation financière des femmes. De plus, des projets de salubrité et de sensibilisation sur les violences basées sur le genre ont été développés, montrant ainsi un impact significatif du soutien financier.

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Message of Congratulations from the President of RFLD to H.E. Mr. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, President Elected of the African Union Commission

Women's Rights

February 15, 2025 Africa

Message of Congratulations from the President of RFLD to H.E. Mr. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, President Elected of the African Union Commission

The Network of Women Leaders for Development congratulates H.E. Mr. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf on his re-election as President of the African Union Commission. His extensive experience as Djibouti’s Minister of Foreign Affairs highlights his commitment to African development, peace, and security. The letter emphasizes the importance of youth engagement and women’s empowerment in shaping Africa’s future and achieving sustainable development goals. Multilingualism is noted as a vital asset for fostering dialogue among diverse stakeholders. The organization expresses its support for Youssouf’s vision and aims to collaborate for a prosperous and united Africa under his leadership.

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Supporting Feminist Movements in Francophone Africa

Women's Rights

February 11, 2025 Africa

Supporting Feminist Movements in Francophone Africa

Over half of African countries are Francophone, yet funding and advocacy initiatives primarily cater to English speakers, hindering support for Francophone feminist movements. These movements, known for their dynamism and innovation, lack vital financial resources due to accessibility barriers. To address this issue, a conversation is scheduled for February 19, 2025, at 10:00 AM (EST)/4:00 PM (CET), featuring activists and experts discussing the state of feminist organizing in Francophone Africa and strategies for increased funding support. The event will be moderated by Francoise Moudouthe, with speakers from various organizations highlighting urgent needs in the region.

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