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National Consultation on Women Human Rights Defenders in Togo
1-2 March 2006
Organised by the International Service for Human Rights (ISHR) and the Togolese Coalition for Human Rights

The National Consultation on Women Human Rights Defenders was held last 1-2 March 2006 in Togo. The consultation was organized by the International Service for Human Rights (ISHR) in partnership with the Togolese Coalition for Human Rights. There were over 30 participants representing organizations working on general human rights, women rights, development, democracy and trade unions. There was also a representative from the Ministry of Human Rights and from the National Commission in Togo. In terms of media attention, the event was covered in radio, TV and print.

From the consultation, the participants had a very clear picture of the concept of human rights defenders.  Since ISHR had a consultation on defenders in the country last year, the debates were well-focused. Discussions centered on violations against women human rights defenders working on issues that challenge “traditional and cultural practices” (such as female genital mutilation and widow practices); the challenges faced by women within the NGO community; and the absence of an effective protection from the State. There was also a discussion on the International Campaign on Women Human Rights Defenders. One of the participants took part in the international consultation in Sri Lanka and was able to offer some personal insights about the campaign.

 In terms of follow up, the participants suggested strengthening networking and incorporating women human rights defenders issues in current activities. The committee of NGOs that was set up to prepare for this consultation will meet to identify more concrete activities. Also, participants developed a recommendation for the Ministry of Human Rights, requesting their support for the renewal of the mandate of the UN Special Representative to the Secretary General on Human Rights Defenders. Togo is a current member of the UN Commission on Human Rights.