Strengthening Women's Access to Justice
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In the postconflict transition, justice for past abuses is necessary for reconciliation, to move a country toward stability, peace, and democracy. Effective law enforcement and judicial systems hold governments accountable, redress power imbalances, and maintain stability. Justice must be equitable and accessible for all.
Yet, women are often denied access to justice. Many women fear stigma and rejection by their communities for speaking out about the violence they have faced. Judicial institutions often lack sensitivity about the experiences of women during conflict or treat violations of women’s rights as a low priority in comparison to other crimes.
The International Women’s Program supports initiatives that provide:
- women with legal aid, counsel, and other related services that are otherwise not provided equitably in society;
- skills development and training on gender justice for judges, lawyers, and prosecutors; and
- support to transitional justice mechanisms so that they are equitable and inclusive of women.
