The World YWCA, in partnership with World Students Christian Federation (WSCF) and the World Alliance of YMCAs, will host a round table discussion on ‘The Role of Women and Young People in Building a Culture of Human Rights in Post-Election Situations: Focus on Zimbabwe’ at the 8th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council on June 11. The roundtable aims to engage Member State delegations and NGO representatives in a dialogue to find constructive and active ways for women and young people to promote democracy, human rights and the rule of law in their communities during and after elections.

Representatives from the YWCA of Zimbabwe and the Girl Child Network in Zimbabwe will serve as panellists at the event. The delegation will also meet with the African Union representative at the HRC, Special Rappoerter on Violence Against Women and ecumenical organisations to raise awareness on the plight of women and young people in Zimbabwe as a result of post election violence.

Women and young people are bearing the brunt of post election violence and unrest in Zimbabwe. Recent reports suggest that over 800 homes have been burnt down and over 10,000 people have fled their homes in the post election catastrophe.

Over a hundred displaced women, children and men who took refuge at the YWCA of Zimbabwe were asked to vacate the shelter by the authorities.

The World YWCA continues to stand in solidarity with the people of Zimbabwe and has issued statements calling for an end to violence especially the abuse of women and girls and advocates for an urgent and peaceful solution to the situation. It also reiterates the necessity of women’s perspectives and voices in the peace building process.

Related Links:

• World YWCA to urge Human Rights Council to Help End Political Violence Against Women and Girls in Zimbwabwe
• ActionAlert: Growing Violence in Zimbabwe Threatens Security of Women and Girls