Women human rights defenders in South Sudan operate in one of the most challenging environments globally. Together with them, local experts, and diplomatic representatives, Cordaid has developed the first localised version of the Recommendations for the Protection of Women Human Rights Defenders, initially published in 2021.
Women human rights defenders face intersecting threats stemming from political instability, weak governance structures, ongoing conflict, entrenched gender norms, and systemic inequalities. They also often navigate additional gender-specific barriers, such as the dual burden of household responsibilities and caregiving, while advocating for justice and accountability in a country with restricted civic space.
This publication provides practical, context-driven recommendations for diplomatic missions to strengthen protection measures. It identifies urgent needs and outlines clear entry points for diplomatic staff to act more effectively and inclusively.
Key recommendations span the areas of health and safety, political backlash, and funding, including:
- Integration of the topic of the protection of women human rights defenders in training and onboarding material for diplomatic staff, to maintain knowledge despite fast turnover.
- Supporting connections between local groups and promoting knowledge sharing and network building (with a focus on inclusion of marginalised rural women human rights defenders and those with disabilities).
- Increase opportunities for capacity-strengthening trainings, particularly on digital safety and resource mobilisation.
- Establishing rapid response funding opportunities for emergencies.
- Support women human rights defenders in countering misinformation about their work at the community, governmental, and international levels.