Yemeni Women Human Rights Defenders project concluded

Our remarkable project, “Towards Enhancing the Resilience of Women Human Rights Defenders in Yemen to Advocate for Women’s and Children’s Rights” has now come to and end.

An immense thank you goes to the project partners; Peace Track Initiative(PTI) and TO BE Foundation for Rights and Freedoms, who have been an amazing team and great mentors. Their dedication to Yemeni women’s rights has been key to the success of this project.

We would also like to thank all the consultants who shared their valuable expertise and provided training. This project has been challenging in many ways, especially with partners spread across different parts of the world, however, together we made it happen. This is what we achieved:

– Developed a protection self-referral service guide for Yemeni women human rights defenders

– Provided psychosocial support and strengthened the capacity of 27 Yemeni Women Human Rights Defenders (WHRDs) through a multidisciplinary human rights course

– Provided a ToT training and manual on resilient leadership

– Provided logistical support to WHRDs

– Provided advocacy grants to 6 women-led civil society organisations

– Provided several protection grants to WHRDs

– Updated PTI’s Standards of Operations on Gender Based Violence(GBV) case management

– Delivered a GBV case management course to WHRDs working on GBV

– Participated in several international and national events to advocate for women’s and children’s rights..and much more!

Most importantly, we built a strong network of admirable Yemeni women who supported each other throughout the project. We are confident they will continue to do so.

The situation for women’s rights in Yemen remains dire. Restrictions on women’s freedom of movement in Houthi-controlled areas are increasing, limiting their access to work, education, and healthcare. Legal discrimination persists in marriage, divorce, and inheritance. Women are still underrepresented politically and economically, with only 6% workforce participation. Gender-based violence, including domestic violence and child marriage, has risen, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict and the COVID-19 pandemic. Accessing services remains a significant challenge for women and girls, widening the gender gap in literacy and maternal health.

Yemeni WHRDs are incredibly courageous. They have shown strength and resilience in the face of Yemen’s harsh conditions. They are tirelessly advocating for justice and peace despite facing intimidation and smear campaigns. They are also ensuring that governments, institutions, and societies are held accountable for their actions. Their resilience and bravery is an inspiration; and working alongside them has been a privilege and an honour.

In a world where human rights are increasingly under threat and breached, it has become more critical than ever to protect and advocate for them.  We must support the voices of those who defend them and stand on the frontlines. Upholding human rights is not just a moral imperative, it is the foundation of justice, peace, and dignity for all.

Finally, a last special thanks goes to our project donor, the European Union (EUYemen), for their support and belief in the importance of this project. Their commitment has been instrumental in the success of this project, and with their continued support, we can make even greater strides in the future.

As we reflect on the progress made, it’s clear that our work is far from over. To empower Yemeni women and ensure lasting change, international community must focus on:

1. Advocating for the inclusion of women at every level of decision-making. This extends beyond formal peace talks to local governance and community leadership, where their voices are equally vital.

2. Providing resources and training to help women build their capacity to participate effectively in peacebuilding efforts. This includes offering education, leadership training, and access to economic opportunities.

3. Addressing the specific needs and challenges faced by Yemeni women, such as access to healthcare, protection from gender-based violence, and ensuring their voices are heard in the rebuilding of their country.

4. Encouraging and supporting civil society organisations that promote women’s rights and participation in Yemen. These organisations play a vital role in amplifying the voices of Yemeni women and driving sustainable change.

Looking ahead, we remain committed to continuing our support for Yemeni women human rights defenders.