The Maputo Protocol: a historic commitment to women’s rights in Africa
Since its inception 20 years ago, the Maputo Protocol has played a vital role in the promotion and protection of women’s rights in Africa. Adopted on July 11, 2003 by the African Union, this legally binding protocol has brought significant progress in all areas of women’s lives, including for refugee women.
The Maputo Protocol was designed to fill gaps in international and regional treaties on women’s rights in Africa. It established a comprehensive legal framework to guarantee gender equality, non-discrimination, political participation, access to justice, sexual and reproductive health, and protection against violence against women. Particular attention is paid to refugee women, who are often the most vulnerable and exposed to violations of their fundamental rights.
Refugee women are forced to flee their country of origin due to armed conflict, persecution, sexual violence, or natural disasters. The Maputo Protocol recognizes these realities and commits to protecting the fundamental rights of refugee women, such as the right to life, dignity, liberty and security.
States parties to the Maputo Protocol have committed to take concrete measures to ensure the protection of refugee women. This includes putting in place appropriate policies and legal mechanisms to prevent violence, as well as to investigate, prosecute and punish the perpetrators of such violence. States parties are also required to ensure equal access to health services, including sexual and reproductive health care, as well as education and sustainable livelihoods.
However, despite these commitments, refugee women continue to face many challenges. Sexual and gender-based violence remains an alarming reality in conflict and displacement situations, and access to essential services often remains limited. It is therefore essential that States Parties step up their efforts to fully implement the provisions of the Maputo Protocol and support refugee women in their quest for security, justice and empowerment.
On this special occasion of the 20th anniversary of the Maputo Protocol, it is important to celebrate the progress made, but also to underline the urgency for more action. Refugee women deserve to be protected, supported and included in decision-making processes that affect them. By collaborating with civil society organizations, humanitarian actors and international partners, we can work together to build a future where the rights of refugee women are fully respected and their potential is fully realized..
The Maputo Protocol has laid the foundations for positive transformation for refugee women, but much remains to be done. On this important anniversary, let us reaffirm our commitment to fight for the rights of refugee women and to create a more equitable and inclusive world for all. By joining forces, we can create a world where the human rights of all women, including refugee women, are fully respected and protected