Gender Persecution Principles
Understanding Gender Persecution
Gender persecution involves the systematic and severe deprivation of fundamental rights against individuals or groups based on gender. Despite being recognized as a crime against humanity, its application has been historically limited. Women's Initiatives for Gender Justice is committed to transforming this landscape.
Recent cases, like the Al-Hassan trial, underscore the need for deeper recognition of intersectionality in gender persecution cases, addressing compounded vulnerabilities such as race, ethnicity, and religion.
Developing Gender Persecution Principles
Following a call from the Office of the Prosecutor for input on updating Gender persecution principles, we held a convening that brought together practitioners and experts to shape new principles on gender persecution, delving into critical topics such as codifying gender apartheid, advancing intersectional justice within international law, and fostering survivor-centered advocacy.
The discussions explored gender persecution through an intersectional lens, examined its legal implications in contexts like Afghanistan and Iran, and identified pathways to accountability at the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Focus Areas
Prevention
Advocating for early intervention mechanisms and gender-sensitive legal frameworks.
Protection
Strengthening protections for individuals and communities at risk.
Participation
Elevating survivors' voices in the design and implementation of justice initiatives.
Recovery
Advancing reparative justice and developing survivor support networks.