Voices for Peace – The critical role of Women Human Rights Defenders (WHRDs) in Nigeria’s peacebuilding landscape

Human rights defenders (HRDs) play an indispensable role in promoting peace, justice and human dignity in conflict-affected countries like Nigeria. However, their work often challenges entrenched power dynamics, making them targets of threats, harassment and violence, particularly in volatile and fragile environments. In such contexts, women HRDs face heightened risks, including gender-based violence, threats and intimidation, which impede their vital work in promoting peace and human rights.

For this research project – titled “Voices for Peace – The critical role of Women Human Rights Defenders (WHRDs) in Nigeria’s peacebuilding landscape” – PI sought the testimonies of women HRDs who are on the frontline of addressing conflicts and building peace in their communities in Nigeria. Nine women agreed to be interviewed, and shared with PI how they contribute to peacebuilding in their country, what kind of challenges they face when doing so, and how they remain resilient and safe, among other things.

In addition to this crucial information, the report gives a brief overview of women HRDs’ role and involvement in peacebuilding efforts and provides a short analysis of the conflict in Nigeria. It also highlights good practices employed by women HRDs in Nigeria, as well as recommendations addressed to Nigerian women HRDs, protection actors and donors, and civil society organisations.  

The report is available in both French and English and can be downloaded below.