Masimanyane Women’s Rights International, a global advocate for women’s rights and the International Network to end Violence against Women and Girls (INEWAG) are taking a stand against the gross violations of women’s and children’s rights in Gaza through a Women’s March in Solidarity with Palestine to commemorate International Human Rights Day.
The march, scheduled for December 12, 2023, will be attended by Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane, emphasising the importance of global leaders uniting to address human rights concerns. The threefold purpose of the march includes expressing solidarity with the oppressed people of Palestine, condemning the ongoing genocide, and holding the global community accountable for human rights violations.
The march coincides with International Human Rights Day, marking the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. The Nakba, or catastrophe, in 1948 displaced at least 750 000 Palestinians, leading to the current crises in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. “The myth of religious differences fuelling the conflict is debunked, emphasizing the daily oppression faced by Palestinians of all religions,” says Dr. Lesley Ann Foster, Founder and Executive Director of Masimanyane Women’s Rights International.
“Palestine's longstanding advocacy against Israeli is underscored, with research confirming apartheid-like treatment. The Israeli government's oppressive policies, including forced displacements and discriminatory laws, are outlined. The blockade in Gaza, causing dire living conditions, is condemned,” says Foster.
UN Women's data reveals the severe impact on women and girls in Gaza since October 7, 2023, including attacks, displacement, and disruptions. The South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr. Naledi Pandor, highlighted the denial of basic human rights to the people of Palestine and the disproportionate impact on women and children during conflicts, including gender-based violence.
Msimanyane Women’s Rights International condemns all forms of gender-based violence in the region as well welcoming the news that the United Nations has launched its own inquiry into the sexual violence Hamas has been accused of committing on 7 October.
“There are numerous accounts of sexual violence during the abhorrent acts of terror by Hamas on 7 October that must be vigorously investigated and prosecuted,” United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a statement. “Gender-based violence must be condemned. Anytime. Anywhere,” Guiterrez said.
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