Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Global Justice Center Using International Law to Achieve Gender Equality ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Publications - [Recommendations: Advancing a Gender-Competent War Crimes Court for Liberia](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/recommendations-advancing-a-gender-competent-war-crimes-court-for-liberia/) - We write as organizations committed to gender justice and women’s rights to share observations and recommendations regarding the draft ‘An Act Establishing a War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia’ (Draft Statute), developed by the Office for the Establishment of War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia (OWECC-L). - [A Feminist Call to the Assembly of States Parties Ahead of the Special Session](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/a-feminist-call-to-the-assembly-of-states-parties-ahead-of-the-special-session/) - Originally posted by Women's Initiatives for Gender Justice July 21st, 2026 — An International Criminal Court (ICC) junior staff member accused the ICC’s Prosecutor, the highest elected official within the Office of the Prosecutor (OTP) of the Court, of sexual misconduct and retaliation against ICC staff that reported the misconduct. We urge States Parties not to - [Support the ICC as a Vital Court of Last Resort for Victims of Grave International Crimes](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/support-the-icc-as-a-vital-court-of-last-resort-for-victims-of-grave-international-crimes/) - As US organizations from across civil society—including legal, human rights, faith-based, humanitarian, academic, and democracy organizations—alongside advocates for victims and survivors of atrocity crimes, prominent scholars, legal practitioners, diplomats, and civil servants, we are alarmed by the US administration’s announced campaign to “dismantle” and “systematically disable” the International Criminal Court (ICC), including reported threats of - [Q&A – The Disciplinary Proceedings Involving the ICC Prosecutor](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-disciplinary-proceedings-involving-the-icc-prosecutor/) - In July, the ICC’s Assembly of States Parties will convene an unprecedented Special Session where, for the first time in the Court's history, States will be asked to decide whether to remove a sitting ICC Prosecutor from office. That decision must be grounded in an accurate understanding of the statutory framework governing these disciplinary proceedings and the decisions available to the relevant decision-maker at each stage of the process. There is a legitimate public interest in the disciplinary proceedings currently before the ASP. The allegations against the Prosecutor are serious, and the moral and ethical standards required of his position are high. Yet key aspects of the process remain confidential or unpublished, including virtually all procedural documents, key decisions, the main findings of the UN Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS), which conducted the external fact-finding investigation into the allegations, and the main conclusions of the ad hoc Panel of judicial experts, which was mandated to provide advice on the legal characterisation of the facts as established by the OIOS. - [Gender stereotypes, not biology, drives women's discrimination around reproductive choices](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/gender-stereotypes-not-biology-drives-womens-discrimination-around-reproductive-choices/) - ‘Defining women exclusively in their role as ​“mothers” strips them of their full, diverse identities and humanity, reduces women to their reproductive role, and reinforces the patriarchal gender stereotypes that drive violence and discrimination against women and girls. It also reinforces these stereotypes by solely focusing on women’s experience of ​“motherhood” to the exclusion of their other varied identities, characteristics and roles in societies. - [Amicus Brief – Ban on Gender Affirming Care Violates North Dakotans' Human Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/amicus-brief-td-v-wrigley/) - North Dakota Century Code Chapter 12.1-36.1 (the “Health Care Ban” or “Ban”) categorically prohibits adolescents from receiving medically necessary treatment when their gender identity does not align with their sex assigned at birth, while permitting the same interventions for other minors and for other medical purposes. The Health Care Ban impermissibly intrudes on multiple rights protected by the North Dakota Constitution: its guarantees of individuals’ bodily autonomy and access to life‑preserving medical care; its protections for family integrity safeguarding parents’ right to make individualized medical decisions in their children’s best interests; and its equal‑protection provisions prohibiting laws that discriminate on the basis of sex or otherwise restrict important substantive rights for a subset of people without compelling reason. Each of these constitutional guarantees is supported by international and regional human rights law and by the laws and practices of many other nations. Together, these domestic, regional, and international authorities demonstrate that North Dakota’s ban is both unconstitutional and inconsistent with established human rights norms. This Court should therefore reverse the lower court’s decision. - [Comment - CEDAW Draft General Recommendation on Gender Stereotypes](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/comment-cedaw-draft-general-recommendation-on-gender-stereotypes/) - We recommend that the General Recommendation include more specificity in Section A and throughout (as described in detail below), on the role of reproductive capacity in shaping and entrenching gender stereotypes. - [Amicus Brief – Michigan's "Coercion" Screening Requirement Violates International Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/amicus-brief-northland-family-planning-centers-vs-michigan/) - In 2022, Michigan’s citizens went to the polls to make their voices heard on an issue of systemic constitutional importance: the right of a woman to terminate her pregnancy. By a wide margin, Michigan’s citizens voted to enact the Reproductive Freedom for All Amendment (“RFFA”), an amendment to Michigan’s Constitution that eliminates outdated restrictions on reproductive healthcare and protects the fundamental right to reproductive freedom in Michigan, including the freedom for Michiganders to decide to end their pregnancies. The RFFA ensures that Michiganders have “the right to make and effectuate decisions about all matters relating to pregnancy,” including “abortion care,” without the State of Michigan “discriminat[ing] in the protection or enforcement of this fundamental right.” - [Diminishing Reproductive and Bodily Autonomy Exacerbated by State-Sanctioned Violence from ICE](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/diminishing-reproductive-and-bodily-autonomy-exacerbated-by-state-sanctioned-violence-from-ice/) - As the United States ("US") approaches its rescheduled 4th Universal Periodic Review ("UPR"), individuals’ sexual and reproductive health and rights (“SRHR”) continue to deteriorate across the country. Since our previous submission, both restrictions on reproductive healthcare access, in particular abortion care, and targeted, state-sanctioned violence, intimidation, discrimination, and harassment of communities by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”) and Customs and Border Protection (“CBP”) have increased. This submission updates this coalition’s April 2025 submission. It includes quantitative research and qualitative data gathered from abortion funds, healthcare providers, doulas, and persons detained or deported by ICE agents. Testimony is from individuals who have been directly harmed by restrictive abortion laws and/or by the recent unlawful changes in and enforcement of immigration policies or from individuals whose clients or patients have suffered such harm. - [Letter: Outcome of Universal Periodic Review of Liberia](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-outcome-of-universal-periodic-review-of-liberia/) - Liberia’s support for key recommendations received during its fourth UPR cycle is a significant and welcome step toward at last delivering justice for serious international crimes during the country’s civil wars. These include recommendations aimed at the establishment and effective functioning of a war and economic crimes court and full implementation of the country’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s recommendations. - [Fact Sheet: Celia Ramos v. Peru](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/fact-sheet-celia-ramos-v-peru/) - In March 2026, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (the Court) issued a landmark judgment in Ramos Durand et al. v. Peru, holding Peru responsible for the forced sterilization and death of Celia Edith Ramos Durand. The case was brought by the Center for Reproductive Rights, DEMUS–Study for the Defense of Women’s Rights, and the Center for Justice and International Law (CEJIL). Global Justice Center submitted an amicus curiae brief in the case, with Debevoise & Plimpton acting as pro bono counsel, articulating the importance of specifically recognizing reproductive violence. - [Submission to the OHCHR Call for Input - Accelerating Progress Towards Preventing Adolescent Girls’ Pregnancy](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/accelerating-progress-towards-preventing-adolescent-girls-pregnancy/) - The United States tracks adolescent sexual and reproductive health (SRH) indicators through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) via the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS) and the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS). Furthermore, the Office of Population Affairs, within the Department of Health and Human Services, maintains ongoing data reporting, collection, and monitoring of changes and trends relating to statistics on adolescent SRH. Large-scale health surveys, public health institutions, and academic research studies are utilized to gather data. Since 2009, teen birth rates in the United States have been declining and is 13.6 births per 1,000 females as of 2022. This rate remains higher than in other similar industrialized countries. - [Amicus Brief - Tennessee’s “Abortion Trafficking” Law is a Human Rights Violation](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/amicus-brief-tn-abortion-trafficking/) - While U.S. constitutional law provides a clear basis to reject Tennessee’s attempt to silence individuals providing information about safe and lawful healthcare access, affirming the district court’s holding would also align with international human rights law. Several international treaties, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (“ICCPR”) and the International Convention on the Rights of the Child (“CRC”), support the position that the Recruitment Provision violates longstanding international legal principles protecting free speech. - [Letter: Safeguarding sexual and reproductive health and rights in the UN80 Reform](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-safeguarding-sexual-and-reproductive-health-and-rights-in-the-un80-reform/) - We are writing on behalf of the Global South Coalition for SRHR and Development Justice and a group of civil society organizations allied in support of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). As you know, SRHR has long been recognized by the UN and its member states as an essential prerequisite to achieving gender equality and development. As the UN80 reform process explores potential structural improvements—including a possible merger between UNFPA and UN Women—we are writing to urge you to safeguard the integrity of the UN’s SRHR mandate. - [Submission to UN Special Rapporteur on Myanmar - Gender Inclusivity in Transitional Justice Mechanisms in Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/submission-to-un-special-rapporteur-on-myanmar-gender-inclusivity-in-transitional-justice-mechanisms-in-myanmar/) - The Global Justice Center and the Leitner Center welcome the opportunity to submit comments to the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar relating to the forthcoming conference room paper on pathways to accountability for grave human rights violations in Myanmar. - [Summary: The Draft Crimes Against Humanity Convention and Forced Marriage](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/summary-the-draft-crimes-against-humanity-convention-and-forced-marriage/) - The inclusion of forced marriage as a standalone violation in the forthcoming Convention on Crimes Against Humanity is essential for preventing and providing redress for this harm. States should: Add forced marriage as a standalone violation to the list of prohibited acts in Article 2(1) of the draft Crimes Against Humanity Convention. - [Advancing Gender Justice in the Crimes Against Humanity Convention: A Declaration](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/advancing-gender-justice-in-the-crimes-against-humanity-convention-a-declaration/) - We, the undersigned organizations and individuals, welcome the official start of preparatory work for a Crimes Against Humanity Convention. This is a significant opportunity to ensure an inclusive instrument that addresses long-standing gaps in the protection against gender-based crimes, particularly for women and girls. We urge states to adopt a gender-competent and intersectional negotiation process - [Declaration: Ensuring the Full, Meaningful, and Safe Participation of Diverse Civil Society in the UN Crimes against Humanity Treaty Process](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-ensuring-the-full-meaningful-and-safe-participation-of-diverse-civil-society-in-the-un-crimes-against-humanity-treaty-process/) - We, the undersigned organizations and individuals, represent civil society organizations, nongovernmental organizations, victim/survivor associations, and academic institutions from around the world. We have technical expertise on the prevention and punishment of crimes against humanity, including their adjudication before national and international courts and tribunals. Many of us have also directly experienced or witnessed the commission of crimes against humanity. We welcome the opening of the Preparatory Committee for the Conference of Plenipotentiaries on the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of Crimes against Humanity, a vital step towards closing a long-standing accountability gap in international law. - [Q&A: Developments in Gambia’s Case Against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/q-a-developments-in-gambia-s-case-against-myanmar-at-the-international-court-of-justice/) - From February 21 to 28, 2022, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, Netherlands, will hold public hearings in the Case of The Gambia v. Myanmar concerning Myanmar’s alleged violations of the Genocide Convention against the ethnic Rohingya population in Myanmar’s northern Rakhine State. The following questions and answers address key issues regarding those hearings. - [Summary: The Draft Crimes Against Humanity Convention and Centering Victims and Survivors](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/summary-the-draft-crimes-against-humanity-convention-and-centering-victims-and-survivors/) - In negotiating the Crimes Against Humanity Convention, states must take a survivor-centric approach. Centering survivors is essential to minimize and repair the harms caused by crimes against humanity, treat survivors with dignity and respect, and facilitate the healing process and the restoration of their autonomy and rights. - [Submission of Comments to CEDAW on Women in Conflict Prevention, Conflict, and Post-Conflict Situations](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/submission-of-comments-to-cedaw-on-women-in-conflict-prevention-conflict-and-post-conflict-situations/) - The Draft Addendum makes welcome contributions to recognizing a fuller scope of conflict-related sexual and gender-based violence (GBV), acknowledging that “conflict-related gender violence is no longer confined to acts purely sexual in nature” and includes many forms, including physical, moral, psychological and transgenerational forms of violence. - [The Leadership Conference and 257 Other Groups Voice Strong Concerns About House Hearing on the Southern Poverty Law Center](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-leadership-conference-and-257-other-groups-voice-strong-concerns-about-house-hearing-on-the-southern-poverty-law-center/) - Originally posted by The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights The Honorable Chip Roy, ChairmanThe Honorable Mary Gay Scanlon, Ranking MemberSubcommittee on the Constitution and Limited GovernmentCommittee on the JudiciaryU.S. House of RepresentativesWashington, DC 20515 Dear Chairman Roy and Ranking Member Scanlon: On behalf of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights and - [Shadow Report on Myanmar for the 64th Session of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/shadow-report-to-the-human-rights-council-for-the-universal-periodic-review-of-the-united-states-2010/) - Myanmar is a party to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and, as such, must fulfill its obligations to ensure both de jure and de facto equality for women. Yet, despite these obligations, women and girls across Myanmar face serious obstacles to realizing their rights to substantive equality and non-discrimination. In this Report, the Gender Equality Network (GEN) and Global Justice Center (GJC) highlight multiple barriers facing women and girls in Myanmar and offer key areas where reforms are necessary in order to promote women’s rights and the equal enjoyment of freedoms. This report can be read as a baseline of the situation on key indicators that affect the situation of women and girls in Myanmar, and therefore offers a starting point for dialogue with the newly elected government. The goal of such dialogue is to jointly tackle the systemic hurdles that impede the achievement of women’s equality and reverse some of the repressions under previous regimes. This report highlights general inequalities and discrimination faced by all women in Myanmar, but it must be noted that certain marginalized groups, such as ethnic women, rural women and older women, are not specifically discussed herein, but nonetheless experience additional and intersecting forms of discrimination. - [Summary: The Draft Crimes Against Humanity Convention and the Slave Trade](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/summary-the-draft-crimes-against-humanity-convention-and-the-slave-trade/) - Enumerate the Slave Trade in Article 2 of the Draft Articles on the Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Humanity. - [Draft Articles on Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Humanity Should Advance Justice for Reproductive Autonomy](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/draft-articles-on-prevention-and-punishment-of-crimes-against-humanity-should-advance-justice-for-reproductive-autonomy/) - It is imperative that the 2019 Draft articles on Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Humanity (the “Draft Crimes Against Humanity Convention”) protect the value of “reproductive autonomy,” meaning the right of every individual to exercise agency over their fertility; their choice about whether, and in what circumstances, to reproduce. - [Summary: The Draft Crimes Against Humanity Convention and Reproductive Autonomy](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/summary-the-draft-crimes-against-humanity-convention-and-reproductive-autonomy/) - Reproductive autonomy is an individual’s ability to exercise agency over their fertility, including their choice about whether and in what circumstances to reproduce. It is inseparable from human dignity and bodily autonomy, and its violation has profound physical, psychological, social, and economic consequences for affected individuals, families, and communities. Rights related to reproductive autonomy are protected in international and regional human rights instruments. - [Letter: 100+ Reproductive Health, Rights, and Justice Organizations Urge UN to Ensure U.S. Doesn't Avoid Human Rights Review](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-reproductive-orgs-urge-un-to-hold-us-human-rights-review/) - We the undersigned 115 reproductive health, rights, and justice organizations are dedicated to the protection and realization of human rights for all people, and we are deeply concerned about the United States Government’s decision to withdraw from the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process, an unprecedented step that signals a worrying retreat from our human rights obligations and the global mechanisms of accountability. - [Joint Call to Amend the Draft Crimes Against Humanity Convention to Encompass Gender Apartheid](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/joint-call-to-amend-the-draft-crimes-against-humanity-convention-to-encompass-gender-apartheid/) - The undersigned respectfully bring your attention to a glaring and consequential gap in the current Draft Articles on Prevention and Punishment of Crimes against Humanity: the omission of the crime against humanity of gender apartheid. - [An Open Letter Rejecting Presidential Attacks on Nonprofit Organizations](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/an-open-letter-rejecting-presidential-attacks-on-nonprofit-organizations/) - Originally published by Democracy Defenders Fund We are a coalition of nonprofit and nonpartisan organizations formed to champion causes dear to all Americans. We work in communities across the country to protect our air and water, our right to vote, to worship, and to organize; we fight for consumers, workers, and our children; we advocate - [Open Letter: Call for UN member states to uphold, preserve and strengthen international refugee, human rights and humanitarian treaties](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/open-letter-call-for-un-member-states-to-uphold-preserve-and-strengthen-international-refugee-human-rights-and-humanitarian-treaties/) - Originally published by International Commission of Jurists The 268 faith-based, non-governmental, and other civil society organizations listed below call on UN Member States to uphold, preserve, strengthen, and celebrate international refugee, human rights, and humanitarian treaties and reject efforts to undo or undermine legal norms. In recognition of the inalienable human dignity of each person, States built - [Letter: Establish an Independent International Accountability Mechanism for Afghanistan](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-establish-an-independent-international-accountability-mechanism-for-afghanistan/) - We, the undersigned Afghan and international civil society organisations, write to you, once again, to share our grave concerns regarding the deepening human rights and humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. We also reiterate the urgent need for the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) to establish an independent international accountability mechanism for Afghanistan (hereafter accountability mechanism) to support accountability for gross and systematic human rights violations and abuses and crimes under international law, including those that were committed in the past and those that continue to be committed across Afghanistan. - [Amicus Brief - Celia Ramos v. Peru](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/amicus-brief-celia-ramos-v-peru/) - In this brief, Global Justice Center respectfully urges the Court to: first, recognize forced sterilization as a specific form of reproductive violence with specific characteristics and harms, and requiring particular remedies; and second, consider the mass, State-sponsored character of the harm that underlies this case, in ordering appropriate reparations. - [Q&A: Documenting Reproductive Violence in Conflict and Crisis](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/qa-documenting-reproductive-violence-in-conflict-and-crisis/) - In September 2024, UN Women and Global Justice Center issued a report detailing challenges and offering legal guidance to improve the documentation of reproductive violence in crisis and conflict by UN international investigations. These investigations play a key role in guiding international responses, so omitting documentation of reproductive violence can have devastating ripple effects. This Q&A draws from the report to provide information on what reproductive violence is, why its documentation in conflict and crisis situations matters, and how this documentation can be done more effectively. - [1,200 NGOs from 167 Countries and Territories urge States to #RenewIESOGI](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/1200-ngos-from-167-countries-and-territories-urge-states-to-renewiesogi/) - See full statement and signatories at ILGA World In every region of the world, widespread, grave, and systematic violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and/or gender identity persist. These include: killings and extrajudicial executions; criminalisation; stigmatisation; hate speech; denial of self-defined gender identity; disinformation campaigns; repression of the rights to freedom of expression, association and - [Oral Statement: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on violence against women and girls](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/oral-statement-interactive-dialogue-with-the-special-rapporteur-on-violence-against-women-and-girls/) - Violence against women and girls is pervasive, evolving, and requires an all-tools approach by the Council if it is to be ended. Excluding a gender analysis from efforts to addressing violence against women and girls – an established standard in international law – is legally and substantively insufficient. It risks excluding historically marginalised populations from essential protections, including rights to non-discrimination, bodily autonomy and freedom from torture or other ill-treatment. It undermines efforts to address the root causes perpetuating gender-based violence. - [Joint Submission to UN Special Rapporteur on Health: Health and Care Workers as Human Rights Defenders](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/joint-submission-to-un-special-rapporteur-on-health-health-and-care-workers-as-human-rights-defenders/) - Our coalition recently developed a joint submission to the UN Human Rights Council before the USA’s upcoming 4th Universal Periodic Review. This submission focused on the significant deterioration of sexual and reproductive rights and justice across the country since the elimination of a federal right to abortion and amid a broader undermining of rights in the USA. - [Joint Submission to the Special Rapporteur on Violence Against Women and Girls’ Call for Inputs on the Report, "Surrogacy and Violence Against Women"](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/joint-submission-to-the-special-rapporteur-on-violence-against-women-and-girls-call-for-inputs-on-the-report-surrogacy-and-violence-against-women/) - The remit of the UN Special Rapporteur on Violence against Women and Girls’ mandate is to consider the human rights implications of violence against all individuals involved in surrogacy arrangements: gamete donors and surrogates, intending parent(s), and children, once born, from this process...The practice of surrogacy is not inherently coercive or exploitative and does not amount to a human rights violation. Attempts to criminalize surrogacy fall short of the duty of governments to help realize the enjoyment of human rights for all. - [Joint Call to Advance Gender Justice in the Draft Crimes Against Humanity Convention](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/joint-call-to-advance-gender-justice-in-the-draft-crimes-against-humanity-convention/) - We, the undersigned individuals and organizations, are writing regarding the Draft Articles on Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Humanity, currently under your consideration. We applaud the Sixth Committee’s leadership on and engagement with the draft articles. April’s resumed session discussion was an indisputable advance. Progress is being made to form the basis for actual negotiations of a new crimes against humanity convention that would have significant potential to advance protection for civilian populations at risk as well as justice for gender-based crimes. - [အမေးအဖြေ - နောက်ဆုံးရသတင်း - မြန်မာအရာရှိများအပေါ် ယူနီဗာဆယ် တရားစီရင်ရေးအမှု အာဂျင်တီးနားတရားရုံးမှ လူ (၂၅) ဦးကို ဖမ်းဝရမ်းထုတ်ပြန်ခြင်း](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/အမေးအဖြေ-နောက်ဆုံးရသတင/) - ၂၀၂၅ ခုနှစ်၊ ဖေဖော်ဝါရီလ (၁၃) ရက်တွင်၊ အာဂျင်တီးနားတရားသူကြီး Hon. María Romilda Servini de Cubría က ရိုဟင်ဂျာများအပေါ် ဂျန်နိုဆိုက်နှင့် ပြင်းထန်သောလူသတ်မှု၊ လိင်ပိုင်းဆိုင်ရာ အကြမ်းဖက်မှုနှင့် ညှင်းပန်းနှိပ်စက်မှုစသည့် ပြစ်မှုများကျူးလွန်ခဲ့သည်ဟု စွပ်စွဲခံရသည့် စစ်တပ်နှင့် အရပ်သား အရာရှိ (၂၅) ဦးကို ဖမ်းဝရမ်းများ ထုတ်ပြန်ခဲ့သည်။ အဆိုပါ(၂၅)ဦးတွင် တပ်မတော်ကာကွယ်ရေးဦးစီးချုပ်ဗိုလ်ချုပ်မှူးကြီးမင်းအောင်လှိုင်နှင့် ဒုတိယတပ်မတော်ကာကွယ်ရေး ဦးစီးချုပ် ဗိုလ်ချုပ်ကြီး စိုးဝင်းတို့ ပါဝင်သည်။ ဤသည်မှာ ရိုဟင်ဂျာများအပေါ် ကျူးလွန်ခဲ့သော ရာဇဝတ်မှုများအတွက် ယူနီဗာဆယ် တရားစီရင်ပိုင်ခွင့် (universal jurisdiction) အရ တရားစွဲဆိုသည့် အမှုတွင် ပထမဆုံးအကြိမ် အများပြည်သူသိရှိရန် ဖမ်းဝရမ်းများ ထုတ်ခြင်းဖြစ်ပြီး၊ တရားမျှတမှုရှာဖွေရာတွင် ကြီးမားသော ခြေလှမ်းတစ်ရပ်ဖြစ်သည်။ ဤအမှုသည် ၂၀၁၉ ခုနှစ် နိုဝင်ဘာလတွင် ဗြိတိန်ရှိ မြန်မာရိုဟင်ဂျာအဖွဲ့အစည်း (Burmese Rohingya Organisation UK, BROUK) က အာဂျင်တီးနားတွင် တင်သွင်းခဲ့သော စွဲချက်မှ စတင်ခဲ့ခြင်းဖြစ်သည်။ BROUK က ၂၀၁၂ ခုနှစ်မှစတင်၍ ရိုဟင်ဂျာများအပေါ် ကျူးလွန်ခဲ့သည့် ဂျန်နိုဆိုက်နှင့် လူသတ်မှု၊ အတင်းအဓမ္မ ပျောက်ဆုံးစေမှု၊ ညှဉ်းပန်းနှိပ်စက်မှု၊ လိင်ပိုင်းဆိုင်ရာ အကြမ်းဖက်မှုနှင့် ထောင်ချခံရမှုများ အပါအဝင် လူသားမျိုးနွယ်အပေါ် ကျူးလွန်သော ရာဇဝတ်မှုများဖြင့် စွဲချက်တင်ခဲ့သည် (ဤအမှုနှင့်ပတ်သက်သည့် ယခင်မေးခွန်းနှင့်အဖြေကို ဤနေရာတွင် ဖတ်ရှုနိုင်ပါသည်)။ အသက်ရှင်ကျန်ရစ်သူ ရိုဟင်ဂျာများနှင့် ရိုဟင်ဂျာအသိုင်းအဝိုင်းအတွက် တရားမျှတမှုနှင့် တာဝန်ခံမှု ရရှိရန် ဤကြိုးပမ်းမှုမှာ ရိုဟင်ဂျာအသိုင်းအဝိုင်းကိုယ်တိုင်မှ ဦးဆောင်လှုံ့ဆော်ခဲ့ခြင်း ဖြစ်သည့်အတွက် အထူးအရေးပါသည်။ - [Joint Stakeholder Report for the United Nations Universal Periodic Review: Impunity for Past Human Rights Violations and Transitional Justice in Liberia](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/joint-stakeholder-report-for-the-united-nations-universal-periodic-review-impunity-for-past-human-rights-violations-and-transitional-justice-in-liberia/) - Widespread and systematic violations of international human rights and humanitarian law characterized Liberia’s two brutal armed conflicts, which took place between 1989 and 2003. Liberian men, women, and children were gunned down in their homes, marketplaces, and places of worship. In a few cases hundreds of civilians were massacred in a matter of hours. Girls and women were subjected to horrific sexual violence3 including gang rape, sexual slavery, and torture. Children were abducted from their homes and schools and pressed into service, often after witnessing the murder of their parents. The violence blighted the lives of tens of thousands of civilians and displaced almost half the population. - [Submission for the Universal Periodic Review of the United States: Diminishing Reproductive and Bodily Autonomy in the USA](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/submission-for-the-universal-periodic-review-of-the-united-states-diminishing-reproductive-and-bodily-autonomy-in-the-usa/) - As the United States (“US”) approaches its 4th Universal Periodic Review (“UPR”), individuals’ sexual and reproductive health and rights have significantly deteriorated across the country, particularly with regard to abortion and related healthcare. Following the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision, Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization,1 a growing number of states have implemented complete bans or aggressive restrictions on abortion, resulting in millions without access to care. Many seeking care, particularly in the South, are now forced to travel long(er) distances, seek medication through additional formal and informal means, or continue pregnancies against their will. Simultaneously, states are increasingly hostile to and criminalizing abortion seekers and providers, third parties who help individuals access care, and/or circumstances surrounding pregnancy, with laws that impose harsh penalties including fines, prosecution, and imprisonment. - [Actualización: El caso de jurisdicción universal contra funcionarios de Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/actualizacion-el-caso-de-jurisdiccion-universal-contra-funcionarios-de-myanmar/) - El 13 de febrero de 2025, una jueza argentina, María Romilda Servini de Cubria, dictó órdenes de detención contra 25 funcionarios militares y civiles de Myanmar, entre ellos el comandante en jefe Min Aung Hlaing y el comandante en jefe adjunto Soe Win, por la presunta comisión de genocidio y delitos como asesinato con agravantes, abusos sexuales y tortura contra los rohingya. Es la primera vez que se emiten órdenes de detención públicas en un caso de jurisdicción universal en el que se juzgan crímenes contra los rohingya, lo que representa un paso significativo hacia la justicia. - [Update: The Universal Jurisdiction Case Against Myanmar Officials](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/update-the-universal-jurisdiction-case-against-myanmar-officials/) - On 13 February 2025, an Argentine judge, Hon. Marìa Romilda Servini de Cubria, issued arrest warrants for 25 Myanmar military and civilian officials, including Commander-in-Chief Min Aung Hlaing and Deputy Commander- in-Chief Soe Win, for allegedly committing genocide and crimes including aggravated murder, sexual abuse, and torture against the Rohingy. This is the first time that public warrants have been issued in a universal jurisdiction case adjudicating crimes against the Rohingya, representing a significant step towards justice. The case stems from a November 2019 complaint filed in Argentina by Burmese Rohingya Organisation UK (BROUK) alleging genocide and crimes against humanity committed against the Rohingya since 2012, including murder, enforced disappearance, torture, sexual violence, and imprisonment (an earlier Q&A about the case is here). This effort to provide Rohingya survivors and communities with justice and accountability is notable for having been driven and led entirely by the Rohingya community itself. - [High Level Panel on Human Rights Mainstreaming: Oral Statement delivered during the 58th Session of the Human Rights Council](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/high-level-panel-on-human-rights-mainstreaming-oral-statement-delivered-during-the-58th-session-of-the-human-rights-council/) - We join the Council in celebrating 30 years since the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action was unanimously adopted, firmly declaring that women’s rights, as human rights, include the right to have control over and decide freely on their sexuality, including sexual and reproductive health. - [Joint Statement Concerning the Call for Input by the Special Rapporteur on Violence Against Women and Girls](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/joint-statement-concerning-the-call-for-input-by-the-special-rapporteur-on-violence-against-women-and-girls/) - Link to original letter with list of signatories We, the undersigned feminist, human rights and social justice organizations committed to gender equality and social justice, express deep concern regarding the framing of the call for a thematic report by the Special Rapporteur on Violence Against Women and Girls (SRVAW), which adopts a “sex-based” rather than - [Submission to UN Special Rapporteur on Health — Healthcare Workers and the U.S. Abortion Rights Crisis](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/submission-to-un-special-rapporteur-on-health-healthcare-workers-and-the-u-s-abortion-rights-crisis/) - Health and care workers play an essential role in realizing the human right to health for all people globally. In fact, the right to “the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health” enshrined in Article 12 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights would be meaningless without health and care workers. As noted by the UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Health, these individuals are “key protectors of the right to health” and should be protected as human rights defenders. The Global Justice Center (GJC) submits the following information for consideration as the UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Health prepares her report to the Human Rights Council, 59th Session, focusing on “health and care workers as key protectors of the right to health.” GJC applauds the Special Rapporteur for identifying the human rights of healthcare workers and their ability to protect the rights of others as strategic priorities. - [Q&A: How International Law Protects Access to Abortion in Cases of Conscientious Objection](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/qa-how-international-law-protects-access-to-abortion-in-cases-of-conscientious-objection/) - Around 80 countries expressly allow healthcare providers to refuse to provide abortion care based on their conscience, religion, or belief. This practice is referred to as ‘conscientious objection’. Conscientious objection is often unregulated or insufficiently regulated, which can create a significant barrier to care. Inadequate regulatory regimes violate international human rights law and standards, endanger the health and wellbeing of persons seeking care, overburden healthcare providers and systems, and reinforce harmful stereotypes that stigmatize patients and professionals who provide abortion services. Because conscientious objection has become a significant barrier to abortion care, the United Nations Working Group on Discrimination against Women and Girls (WGDAWG) has issued new guidance on the obligation of governments that permit conscientious objection to ensure it does not create barriers to the realization of women’s and girls’ sexual and reproductive health rights. - [Documenting Reproductive Violence: Unveiling Opportunities, Challenges, and Legal Pathways for UN Investigative Mechanisms](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/documenting-reproductive-violence/) - Reproductive violence is a distinct form of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) targeting reproductive autonomy, a right protected under international law. The impacts of reproductive violence can be as profound, damaging, and long-lasting as those accompanying other forms of violence and can compound the pain of other forms of SGBV. Yet recognition of reproductive violence as a distinct harm has been overlooked historically, including in international investigations of atrocities, conflict, humanitarian crises, or other instability. International investigations often play a key role in guiding international responses to crises, and the omission of reproductive violence can thus have significant ripple effects. - [Letter: 100+ Organizations Oppose the Global Gag Rule](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-100-organizations-oppose-the-global-gag-rule/) - Link to original letter with list of signatories We come together as international civil society organizations spanning a range of sectors and geographies to oppose the global gag rule (also known as the Mexico City Policy) and call for a permanent end to this harmful policy. This policy prohibits U.S. assistance for critical global challenges - [Open Letter to Congress and the Incoming Presidential Administration Regarding US Sanctions on the ICC](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/open-letter-to-congress-and-the-incoming-presidential-administration-regarding-us-sanctions-on-the-icc/) - Link to original letter with list of signatories To Members of the 119th Congress and the incoming Presidential Administration of Donald J. Trump: The undersigned organizations write to express grave concerns and to unequivocally oppose the use of the sanctions authority of the United States to attack the International Criminal Court (ICC), an independent judicial - [Amicus Brief — United States v. Idaho (October 2024)](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/amicus-brief-united-states-v-idaho-october-2024/) - Idaho’s “Defense of Life Act” (“Act” or “Idaho’s Law”), a near-total abortion ban, restricts access to necessary emergency reproductive healthcare, exacerbating preventable maternal mortality and morbidity and otherwise negatively impacting pregnant people. The law’s narrow exception for life-saving care will not prevent or mitigate these harms and will leave patients without access to emergency reproductive healthcare. The United States has ratified several human rights treaties that require it to guarantee access to safe and legal reproductive health services, in particular in emergencies or acute medical crises governed by the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (“EMTALA”). Under these treaties, the U.S. is required to respect, protect and fulfil the rights to life; freedom from torture and cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment; non-discrimination; and privacy. Idaho’s draconian abortion law fails to respect these rights and violates the U.S.’s treaty obligations. This violation of the U.S.’s treaty obligations militates in favor of affirming the preliminary injunction issued by the District Court. Causing the U.S. to violate its international obligations will result in irreparable harm and is not in the public interest. - [Open Letter to Human Rights Council on Afghanistan](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/open-letter-to-permanent-representatives-of-member-and-observer-states-of-the-united-nations-human-rights-council/) - Download letter Dear Excellencies, We, the undersigned Afghanistan and international human rights and civil society organisations, write to you once again to share our concerns regarding the grave human rights and humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan and to reiterate the urgent need for accountability for gross, widespread and systematic human rights violations and abuses that continue - [Q&A: The Gambia v. Myanmar – Rohingya Genocide at The International Court of Justice](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/q-a-the-gambia-v-myanmar-rohingya-genocide-at-the-international-court-of-justice/) - On November 11, 2019, The Republic of The Gambia filed suit against Myanmar in the International Court of Justice (“ICJ”) for violating the Genocide Convention. This momentous lawsuit brings a critical focus to Myanmar’s responsibility as a state for genocide and compliments ongoing investigations into individual accountability. This fact sheet answers fundamental questions about the ICJ case, and seeks to clarify available avenues for justice for the crimes committed against the Rohingya population. - [The Draft Crimes Against Humanity Convention and Forced Marriage](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-draft-crimes-against-humanity-convention-and-forced-marriage/) - Under the crimes against humanity category of ‘other inhumane acts’, acts of forced marriage have been successfully prosecuted at the Special Court for Sierra Leone (SCSL), the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC), and the International Criminal Court (ICC). In those cases, forced marriage was classified under the category of ‘other inhumane acts’ because it was not explicitly listed in the statutes of any of those tribunals. The drafting of the Crimes Against Humanity Convention represents an ideal opportunity to rectify this oversight and explicitly recognize forced marriage as a standalone prohibited act. - [Submission to UN Special Rapporteur on Myanmar — Gendered Impacts of the Coup](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/submission-to-un-special-rapporteur-on-myanmar-gendered-impacts-of-the-coup/) - Gender-discriminatory laws and policies, and impunity for sexual and gender-based crimes, have long been the norm in Myanmar. Since independence in 1948, successive military regimes have perpetuated systemic discrimination based on gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity. The 2021 military coup greatly exacerbated gender-based discrimination and violence against women and people with diverse gender identities, and put an immediate end to any attempts to reform or eliminate these structural barriers to equality. - [Q&A: How International Law Protects Abortion Access in the US](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/qa-how-international-law-protects-abortion-access-us/) - On June 4, 2022, the United States Supreme Court issued a ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization that ended the constitutional right to abortion in the US. Following the ruling, many states have moved to ban abortion and issue new restrictions on abortion care. This factsheet answers questions about protections for abortion under international law. Over the last few decades, multiple human rights treaties have been developed that, together, establish reproductive autonomy as a human right. - [(Updated) Q&A: The Gambia v. Myanmar – Rohingya Genocide at The International Court of Justice](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/updated-q-a-the-gambia-v-myanmar-rohingya-genocide-at-the-international-court-of-justice-2/) - On 11 November 2019, the Republic of The Gambia filed suit against the Republic of the Union of Myanmar in the International Court of Justice (“ICJ”) for violating the Genocide Convention. Two months later at the request of The Gambia, the ICJ ordered the government of Myanmar to take certain actions to protect the Rohingya via “provisional measures” while the case proceeds. This historic lawsuit brings a critical focus to Myanmar’s responsibility as a state for the Rohingya genocide. - [Beyond Killing: Gender, Genocide, and Obligations Under International Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/beyond-killing-gender-genocide-and-obligations-under-international-law/) - Gender permeates the crime of genocide. It is woven into the perpetrators’ planning and commission of coordinated acts that make up the continuum of genocidal violence. It is through these gendered annihilative acts that perpetrators maximize the crime’s destructive impact on protected groups. - [Discrimination to Destruction: A Legal Analysis of Gender Crimes Against the Rohingya](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/discrimination-to-destruction-a-legal-analysis-of-gender-crimes-against-the-rohingya/) - Since August 2016, the Burmese military (Tatmadaw), Border Guard, and police forces have conducted a systematic campaign of brutal violence against Rohingya Muslims in Burma’s northern Rakhine State. These attacks come in the midst of a decades-long campaign of persecution of the Rohingya through discriminatory measures to police and control the group, including denying citizenship - [2023 Annual Report](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/2023-annual-report/) - 2023 was a landmark year for GJC. The organization produced path-breaking work on access to abortion in the United States in the wake of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization and championed a global treaty on crimes against humanity that can fully capture harms on the basis of gender. - [Q&A: The Universal Jurisdiction Case Against Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/qa-the-universal-jurisdiction-case-against-myanmar/) - Download PDF Argentina Court Considers International Crimes Against Rohingya On 26 November, 2021, the Second Chamber of the Federal Criminal Court in Buenos Aires launched a universal jurisdiction (UJ) case against Myanmar authorities for the Rohingya genocide, following a complaint filed by Burmese Rohingya Organisation UK (BROUK) in November 2019. BROUK’s complaint alleged genocide and - [Statement: US House Hearing on Liberia War Crimes Court](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/statement-us-house-hearing-on-liberia-war-crimes-court/) - Download full statement House Foreign Affairs Committee Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission Hearing on Liberia: Next Steps Towards Accountability for War & Economic Crimes June 13, 2024 - 10:30 a.m. 2360 Rayburn House Office Building STATEMENT Submitted by The Advocates for Human RightsCenter for Justice and AccountabilityCivil Society Human Rights Advocacy Platform of Liberia (CSO - [Submission to Special Rapporteur on Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment — Report on Sexual Torture](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/submission-to-special-rapporteur-on-torture-and-other-cruel-inhuman-or-degrading-treatment-or-punishment-report-on-sexual-torture/) - Download the full submission I. Introduction Over the years, parties to armed conflicts have systematically used sexual and reproductive violence against civilians to demoralize, terrorize, destroy, and even alter the ethnic compositions of entire communities. A large proportion of the victims of this violence, sometimes over 80%, are children. Stark examples include Rwanda, where nearly - [Letter to the UN, Security Council and Member States on Women’s Rights in Afghanistan](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-the-un-security-council-and-member-states-on-womens-rights-in-afghanistan/) - Dear Excellencies, We write to you ahead of the third UN-convened meeting of Special Envoys and Special Representatives on Afghanistan on 30 June–1 July 2024 in Doha, Qatar (“Doha III”), to continue to discuss the international community’s approach to Afghanistan. More than one year since the first Doha meeting, there is growing concern that the - [Joint NGO Letter to President Biden on the International Criminal Court](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/joint-ngo-letter-to-president-biden-on-the-international-criminal-court/) - Dear President Biden: We write as organizations with a steadfast commitment to justice for grave international crimes and therefore to the success of the International Criminal Court (ICC). We urge your administration to oppose the threats and calls for punitive actions against the Court that several U.S. lawmakers have recently made. Acting on these calls - [Human Rights Crisis: Abortion in the United States After Dobbs](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/human-rights-crisis-abortion-in-the-united-states-after-dobbs/) - Executive Summary Following the United States (US) Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization in June 2022, people in the US who can become pregnant are facing an unprecedented human rights crisis. In Dobbs, the Supreme Court overturned the constitutionally protected right to access abortion, leaving the question of whether and how to - [Joint Statement in Support of Progress toward a Crimes Against Humanity Treaty](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/joint-statement-in-support-of-progress-toward-a-crimes-against-humanity-treaty/) - The undersigned organizations and individuals — with representation from multiple geographic regions — express our support for a global convention on crimes against humanity, and urge states to utilize the 2024 April Resumed Session of the UN’s Sixth Committee to express strong support for a procedure to be adopted at the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly to move - [Idaho v. United States — Amicus Brief](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/idaho-v-united-states-amicus-brief/) - Summary of Argument Idaho’s near-total abortion ban restricts access to necessary emergency reproductive healthcare, exacerbating preventable maternal mortality and morbidity and otherwise negatively impacting people capable of pregnancy in Idaho. The law’s narrow exception for life-saving care will not prevent or mitigate these harms in practice, and will leave patients in Idaho without access to - [Vers un traité sur les crimes contre l’humanité](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/vers-un-traite-sur-les-crimes-contre-lhumanite/) - Des crimes contre l’humanité ont été commis et ces actes ont fait l’objet de poursuites pénales partout dans le monde, notamment au Cambodge, au Rwanda, en Colombie, en Yougoslavie et dans le contexte de la Seconde Guerre mondiale. Malgré cela, il n’existe toujours pas de traité international autonome qui codifie les crimes contre l’humanité et - [Strategic Framework](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/2021-2026-strategic-plan/) - Read the Full Report Introduction The Global Justice Center began 2021 in a global advocacy environment more dynamic and tumultuous than ever. The COVID-19 pandemic only intensified existing threats to human rights, including shrinking spaces for civil society, rising nationalism, and attempted dismantling of the international human rights system. Despite these obstacles, advocates have made - [Oportunidades para Avanzar en la Justicia de Género en el Proyecto de Tratado Internacional sobre Crímenes de Lesa Humanidad](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/oportunidades-para-avanzar-en-la-justicia-de-genero-en-el-proyecto-de-tratado-internacional-sobre-crimenes-de-lesa-humanidad/) - Un Nuevo Tratado Internacional Sobre Crímenes De Lesa Humanidad Un nuevo tratado sobre crímenes de lesa humanidad se está considerando en la Organización de las Naciones Unidas (ONU). El tratado propuesto tiene un potencial significativo para promover la justicia en casos de crímenes basados en el género. Sin embargo, para lograr un tratado fuerte, que - [Avanzando hacia un Tratado sobre Crímenes de Lesa Humanidad](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/avanzando-hacia-un-tratado-sobre-crimenes-de-lesa-humanidad/) - Se han cometido y enjuiciado crímenes de lesa humanidad en muchas partes del mundo, incluyendo en Camboya, Ruanda, Colombia, Yugoslavia y en el contexto de la Segunda Guerra Mundial. Sin embargo, hasta el día de hoy, aún no existe un tratado internacional independiente que codifique los crímenes de lesa humanidad y establezca deberes de prevenirlos - [February 2022 Q&A: Gambia v. Myanmar (Burmese translation) ဂမ်ဘီယာမှ မြန်မာပြည်ကို အပြည်ပြည်ဆိုင်ရာတရားရုံးတွင် စွပ်စွဲထားသော အမှုနှင့်ပတ်သတ်သည့် နောက်ဆုံး အခြေအနေမ](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/february-2022-q-a-gambia-v-myanmar-burmese-translation/) - ဂမ်ဘီယာမှ မြန်မာပြည်ကို အပြည်ပြည်ဆိုင်ရာတရားရုံးတွင် စွပ်စွဲထားသော အမှုနှင့်ပတ်သတ်သည့် နောက်ဆုံး အခြေအနေများ အမေးအဖြေများ ဖေဖော်ဝါရီ ၁၄၊ ၂၀၂၂ မြန်မာနိုင်ငံ၊ ရခိုင်ပြည်နယ်မြောက်ပိုင်းရှိ ရိုဟင်ဂျာတိုင်းရင်းသားများအပေါ် စစ်တပ်၏ရက်စက်ကြမ်းကြုတ်မှုများမှာ ဂျန်နိုဆိုက်ရာဇဝတ်မှု ကာကွယ်တားဆီးရေးနှင့် အပြစ်ပေးရေးကွန်ဗန်းရှင်းကို ချိုးဖောက်သည်ဟု ဂမ်ဘီယာနိုင်ငံမှ မြန်မာနိုင်ငံကို စွပ်စွဲထားသည့်အမှုကို ဖေဖော်ဝါရီလ ၂၁ ရက်မှ ၂၈ ရက်အတွင်း နယ်သာလန်နိုင်ငံ၊ သဟိတ်မြို့ ရှိ အပြည်ပြည်ဆိုင်ရာတရားရုံး (ICJ) တွင် လူသိရှင်ကြား ကြားနာမည်ဖြစ်သည်။ ထိုကြားနာမှုနှင့်ပတ်သတ်သော အဓိကအချက်အလက်များကို အောက်ပါအမေးအဖြေများတွင် ဖော်ပြထားသည်။. Download the Full Q&A - [Options pour faire avancer le Projet d'articles de la CDI sur la prévention et la répression des crimes contre l'humanité](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/options-pour-faire-avancer-le-projet-d-articles-de-la-cdi-sur-la-prevention-et-la-repression-des-crimes-contre-l-humanite/) - RÉSUMÉ Le présent mémorandum identifie trois pistes potentielles pour favoriser la progression du processus d’adoption du Projet d’articles sur les crimes contre l’humanité élaboré par la Commission du droit international. Il a une visée pratique et non pas technique. Le Projet d’articles sur les crimes contre l’humanité bénéficie d’un large soutien de la part des - [El caso de jurisdicción universal en Argentina que investiga crímenes contra las personas Rohingya en Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/el-caso-de-jurisdiccion-universal-en-argentina-que-investiga-crimenes-contra-las-personas-rohingya-en-myanmar/) - El 26 de noviembre de 2021, la Sala Segunda de la Cámara Federal en lo Criminal de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires inició un caso de jurisdicción universal (JU) contra las autoridades de Myanmar por el genocidio Rohingya, siguiendo una denuncia presentada por la organización Burmese Rohingya Organization UK (BROUK, por sus siglas en - [Open letter on EU and several European states’ concerning decision to suspend and review of funding to Palestinian and Israeli NGOs](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/open-letter-on-eu-and-several-european-states-concerning-decision-to-suspend-and-review-of-funding-to-palestinian-and-israeli-ngos/) - We the undersigned are writing to you to raise concern regarding the decision by several European governments to suspend or review their funding to several Palestinian and Israeli civil society organizations. We are deeply concerned by these developments and call on your government to reverse any decision to halt such crucial funding. A reduction in - [Draft Crimes Against Humanity Convention Must Center Victims and Survivors](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/draft-crimes-against-humanity-convention-must-center-victims-and-survivors/) - Overview: States should adopt a survivor-centric approach to the Draft Crimes Against Humanity Convention States must take a survivor-centric approach throughout when considering the Draft Articles on the Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Humanity (the “Draft Crimes Against Humanity Convention”). This is an essential approach in relation to all victims and survivors of crimes - [In Geneva, United States Dodges Key Questions on its Abortion Rights Record](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/in-geneva-united-states-dodges-key-questions-on-its-abortion-rights-record/) - On October 17-18 in Geneva, the United States government faced questions from civil society and the Human Rights Committee on the country’s compliance with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). In addition to questions on immigrants’ rights, racial discrimination, and more, US officials were pressed repeatedly on the state of abortion access in the wake of the US Supreme Court’s ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization. - [#CeasefireNow: Open Call for an Immediate Ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and Israel to Prevent a Humanitarian Catastrophe and Further Loss of Innocent Lives](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/ceasefirenow-open-call-for-an-immediate-ceasefire-in-the-gaza-strip-and-israel-to-prevent-a-humanitarian-catastrophe-and-further-loss-of-innocent-lives/) - We have witnessed unfathomable death and destruction in the Gaza Strip and Israel. Thousands of people have been killed, injured, displaced, and nearly two hundred remain held hostage, including children and elderly. In Gaza, the UN has said that water, food, fuel, medical supplies, and even body bags, are running out due to the siege. The - [2023 Open Letter to Permanent Representatives to the United Nations in advance of the annual Open Debate on Women, Peace and Security](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/2023-open-letter-to-permanent-representatives-to-the-united-nations-in-advance-of-the-annual-open-debate-on-women-peace-and-security/) - Dear Ambassadors, We write to you ahead of this year’s annual Open Debate on Women, Peace and Security (WPS) to urge you to take action to realize the foundational demand of Resolution 1325 (2000)—ensuring women’s full, equal and meaningful participation in peacemaking. For nearly 25 years, the Security Council, the UN and Member States have - [How the Dobbs Ruling Put the United States in Violation of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/how-the-dobbs-ruling-put-the-united-states-in-violation-of-the-international-covenant-of-civil-and-political-rights/) - The June 2022 Supreme Court decision Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization eliminated federal constitutional protection for access to abortion in the United States. Following Dobbs, more than a dozen states fully banned abortion, and many others passed or proposed increased restrictions. On October 17-18, 2023, the Human Rights Committee will review US compliance with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), including the impact of Dobbs on its human rights obligations. - [Blue Smoke Statement of Principles for UN Appointments](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/blue-smoke-statement-of-principles-for-un-appointments/) - Dear Secretary-General, In 2022 the Blue Smoke working group was formed by UNA-UK, Plataforma CIPÓ and Strategy for Humanity to shine a light on elections and appointments to senior positions within the United Nations. Working with civil society partners we have established the attached statement of principles which we believe should guide senior appointments at - [Including the Slave Trade in the Draft Articles on Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Humanity](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/including-the-slave-trade-in-the-draft-articles-on-prevention-and-punishment-of-crimes-against-humanity/) - Introduction On April 11, 2023, the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Sierra Leone to the United Nations submitted in writing its proposal to include the slave trade as an enumerated provision in the Draft articles on Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Humanity (“Draft Articles”). In its current composition, the Draft Articles enumerate the - [Report to Human Rights Committee on US Abortion Bans as Violations of International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/report-to-human-rights-committee-on-us-abortion-bans-as-violations-of-international-covenant-on-civil-and-political-rights/) - Introduction Since the United States (US) was last reviewed by the Human Rights Committee (HRC) nearly a decade ago in 2014, there have been significant developments in the area of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) for women, girls, and people who can become pregnant living in the US, including the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s - [Women’s Rights and Right Wing Politics](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/women-s-rights-right-wing-politics/) - In recent years, right-wing populism has been spreading across Europe and the United States. The US, France, Germany, Greece and the Netherlands have seen a surge in public support for right-wing parties. Ranging from fascist groups like Golden Dawn in Greece to parties attempting to soften their image to gain more followers like the Front - [Advancing Gender Justice in the Draft International Crimes Against Humanity Treaty](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/advancing-gender-justice-in-the-draft-international-crimes-against-humanity-treaty/) - A New International Treaty on Crimes Against Humanity A new treaty on crimes against humanity (CAH) is being considered at the United Nations (UN). The proposed treaty has significant potential to advance justice for gender-based crimes. But in order to achieve a strong gender-just and survivor-centered treaty, diverse civil society organizations around the world must - [Save Mifepristone: People’s Brief](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/save-mifepristone-peoples-brief/) - On Friday, April 7, 2023, Texas-based U.S. District Court Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk delivered his decision in Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine et al v. U.S. Food and Drug Administration et al, ruling that mifepristone should be pulled from the market. On Wednesday, April 12, 2023, a three-judge panel for the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals partly overruled - [Q&A: Moving Towards a Treaty on Crimes Against Humanity](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/qa-moving-towards-a-treaty-on-crimes-against-humanity/) - Crimes against humanity have been committed and prosecuted all over the world, including in Cambodia, Rwanda, Colombia, Yugoslavia, and in the context of World War II. Yet to this day, there is no standalone international treaty that codifies crimes against humanity and establishes duties to prevent and punish them. In stark contrast, treaties have existed - [Civil Society Organizations Urge UN Member States to Vote in Favor of Independent Institution on Missing Persons in Syria](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/civil-society-organizations-urge-un-member-states-to-vote-in-favor-of-independent-institution-on-missing-persons-in-syria/) - At the end of June, the UN General Assembly will be called to vote on a resolution to establish an independent institution to clarify the fate and whereabouts of missing people in the Syrian Arab Republic, a milestone in the international community’s response to the Syrian conflict. Since 2011, more than 100,000 individuals have gone - [Support for the UNFPA Funding Act](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/support-for-the-unfpa-funding-act/) - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, Representative Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) reintroduced her Support UNFPA Funding Act, which ensures the United States contributes to the United Nations (UN) Population Fund. This fund is an agency within the UN that promotes gender equality, empowers women and girls, and provides life-saving resources to women globally. By working with partners in over 150 countries, the UNFPA provides - [Civil society participation: 40 organisations call on the UN to make hybrid participation permanent](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/civil-society-participation-40-organisations-call-on-the-un-to-make-hybrid-participation-permanent/) - On 7 June 2023, in a letter addressed to the UN Secretary-General, the President of the General Assembly, and the President of the Human Rights Council, HRCNet members, together with partner organisations, have requested that the hybrid modalities of participation at the Human Rights Council, Treaty Bodies and related mechanisms become a permanent tool for engagement - [There Is No Place for Anti-Trans Agendas in the UN](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/there-is-no-place-for-anti-trans-agendas-in-the-un/) - We express grave concerns over the series of harmful statements made and actions taken by the current UN Special Rapporteur on violence against women and girls, its causes and consequences, Reem Alsalem. To our dismay, the Special Rapporteur has persistently advocated for additional obstacles and conditions to legal gender recognition that undermine the rights protections of - [Organizational Letter Endorsing the Freedom to Learn Campaign](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/organizational-letter-endorsing-the-freedom-to-learn-campaign/) - As organizations, groups and initiatives committed to the pursuit of human and civil rights, advocating for marginalized communities and defending racial and gender justice in the United States, we are proud to endorse the Freedom to Learn campaign and announce our participation in the Freedom To Learn National Day of Action on May 3, 2023. - [Coalition Letter to the White House and State Department on the US Periodic Report to the UN Human Rights Committee Under The ICCPR](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/coalition-letter-to-the-white-house-and-state-department-on-the-us-periodic-report-to-the-un-human-rights-committee-under-the-iccpr/) - The undersigned organizations call on the Biden administration to update the United States’ fifth periodic report to the UN Human Rights Committee under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). The Committee will be basing its review on this report, which was submitted by the Trump administration on January 15, 2021. This report version lacks updates on existing U.S. policies, as well as a commitment to expand protections for marginalized communities, especially non-citizens, in the context of reproductive health and access to medical care. It is critical — and consistent with the Biden administration’s policy commitments — to address the gaps between current U.S. policies and the ICCPR. - [NGO Letter - No Family Detention](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/ngo-letter-no-family-detention/) - Dear President Biden: The undersigned 383 organizations write to express our grave concern over reports that your administration is considering returning to the policy of family detention which has subjected hundreds of families to abusive, inhumane, and racially discriminatory practices. The long dark history of detaining families in Immigration and Custody Enforcement (ICE) facilities provides - [Outcomes from Strategizing a New Response to the Crisis in Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/outcomes-from-strategizing-a-new-response-to-the-crisis-in-myanmar/) - Background On October 27, 2022, the Global Centre for the Responsibility to Protect and the Global Justice Center convened a private roundtable discussion with international and Myanmar civil society representatives. Participants sought to strategize a new, multidimensional response to the crisis in Myanmar to inform advocacy and legal strategies. While the conversation touched upon a range of issues, - [Letter to UN Special Procedures on US Abortion Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-un-special-procedures-on-us-abortion-rights/) - Executive Summary Following the United States (US) Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization in June 2022, people residing in the US who can become pregnant are facing a human rights crisis. This urgent appeal to United Nations (UN) mandate holders, supported by a coalition of 196 signatories, details these intensifying harms, - [Gender Equity Coalition - Priorities for the 118th Congress](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/gender-equity-coalition-priorities-for-the-118th-congress/) - Dear Colleagues: As our country continues to grapple with and recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic instability it caused, women, people of all marginalized genders, and their families continue to bear the burden of that recovery. Making matters worse, we continue to see historic attacks – physical and legislative – against women, the - [Letter on LaSalle Nomination from Gender & Reproductive Justice Organizations and Leaders](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-on-lasalle-nomination-from-gender-reproductive-justice-organizations-and-leaders/) - Dear Governor Hochul, Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins, and State Senators: As organizations, advocates, and scholars who work and write on issues of reproductive and gender justice, we are deeply troubled by the nomination of Justice Hector LaSalle to serve as Chief Judge of the New York Court of Appeals. At a moment when the federal courts - [Global Justice Center Submission to Argentinian Judiciary on Best Practice For Engaging With Victims and Witnesses of Sexual Violence](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/global-justice-center-submission-to-argentinian-judiciary-on-best-practice-for-engaging-with-victims-and-witnesses-of-sexual-violence/) - Sexual violence “has been particularly egregious” in Myanmar and warrants this Honorable Court’s attention. The purpose of this submission is twofold to: present this Court with the international and regionally recognized principles and practices in relation to interviewing and engaging with victims and witnesses of sexual violence and; to set out international and regional standards applicable to assessing evidence of sexual violence. - [Coalition Letter to Susan Rice on Establishment of Domestic Human Rights Institution](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/coalition-letter-to-susan-rice-on-establishment-of-domestic-human-rights-institution/) - Last October, President Biden proclaimed that the United States must demonstrate that its “commitment to human rights begins at home.” We, the undersigned, strongly support that sentiment and believe that this principle – that human rights begin at home – should be the basis for a bold approach to ensuring that everyone in the United States enjoys - [Joint Statement at NGO Committee consultation with ECOSOC accredited NGOs](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/joint-statement-at-ngo-committee-consultation-with-ecosoc-accredited-ngos/) - This is a group statement. We welcome the convening of this important meeting, mandated by paragraph 61(a) of ECOSOC resolution 1996/31. However, we deeply regret that this is only the second meeting since 1996 and urge Committee members to fulfil this mandate and organise consultations with accredited NGOs prior to each Committee session. Resolution 1996/31 - [Joint civil society statement on the outcomes of UNGA 77 Third Committee](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/joint-civil-society-statement-on-the-outcomes-of-unga-77-third-committee/) - The undersigned civil society organisations mark the conclusion of the UN General Assembly’s (GA) 77th Third Committee session with the following observations on some thematic and country-specific resolutions considered at this session. We urge all States to implement the commitments they have made in the resolutions discussed below to their full extent. We welcome the joint - [Social media platforms must act against election-related violence, disinfo, hate](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/social-media-platforms-must-act-against-election-related-violence-disinfo-hate/) - As we approach the midterm elections, it remains painfully clear that social media companies are still failing to protect candidates, voters, and elected officials from disinformation, misogyny, racism, transphobia, and violence. After the 2020 presidential election, Trump backers and MAGA Republicans attacked the United States Capitol in the hopes of undermining the democratic process and - [Castro, Jacobs Call for Biden Administration to Affirm Global Commitment to Protecting Sexual and Reproductive Rights Post-Dobbs](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/castro-jacobs-call-for-biden-administration-to-affirm-global-commitment-to-protecting-sexual-and-reproductive-rights-post-dobbs/) - Dear Mr. Visek: We are deeply concerned by the Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, which overturned Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey. In the wake of this decision, we appreciate Secretary Blinken’s stated commitment to “helping provide access to reproductive health services and advancing reproductive rights around the world.” We write to you today - [Letter Supporting Abortion Rights for Veterans Affairs Patients](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-supporting-abortion-rights-for-veterans-affairs-patients/) - Dear Under Secretary for Health Dr. Elnahal: As organizations committed to protecting and expanding abortion access for all people, including service members, veterans, and their family members, we commend the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ (“VA”) for its Interim Final Rule (“IFR”) on Reproductive Health Services. This IFR will provide essential abortion care and counseling - [U.S. Lacks Concrete Domestic and International Modes of Legal Protection for U.S. Women](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/u-s-lacks-concrete-domestic-and-international-modes-of-legal-protection-for-u-s-women/) - By Marie Wilken Most Americans—80%—believe women’s rights are guaranteed by the Constitution. Most would likely similarly assume that the U.S. is one of 189 countries to have ratified the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). But the United States neither constitutionally protects women’s rights nor is a state party - [Seeking Justice for the Yazidi on the World Day for International Justice](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/seeking-justice-for-the-yazidi-on-the-world-day-for-international-justice/) - By Marie Wilken After the Holocaust, the world said “never again.” The United Nations adopted the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in 1948, and 142 countries have ratified it since. But we have not fulfilled that promise to prevent and punish. Through genocides in Rwanda, Cambodia, the former Yugoslavia, - [Outcomes from the Global Justice Center Brain Trust](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/outcomes-from-the-global-justice-center-brain-trust/) - Reconciling International Laws on Genocide and Counter-Terrorism On June 12, 2017, the Global Justice Center convened a Brain Trust of legal experts to consider how to reconcile the legal obligations to prevent, suppress and punish genocide with counter-terrorism measures directed towards ISIS. Evidence supports that ISIS has been engaged in an ongoing genocide against the Yazidis - [Global Justice Center and the Bar Human Rights Committee Send a Submission to the International Criminal Court Urging the Opening of a Preliminary Examination](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/global-justice-center-and-the-bar-human-rights-committee-send-a-submission-to-the-international-criminal-court-urging-the-opening-of-a-preliminary-examination/) - Re: Submission by the Global Justice Center and the Bar Human Rights Committee Urging the Opening of a Preliminary Examination Dear Prosecutor Bensouda, The Global Justice Center and the Bar Human Rights Committee of England and Wales are writing to urge the Office of the Prosecutor (OTP) to open a preliminary examination into genocide and - [U.S. Continues to Prioritize Anti-Abortion Policy Over The Wellbeing of Women](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/u-s-continues-to-prioritize-anti-abortion-policy-over-the-wellbeing-of-women/) - By Marie Wilken The United States recently rejected a United Nations Human Rights Council resolution on violence against women because it contained language calling for access to abortion in countries where it is legal. This is yet another example of the Trump administration using international aid and laws to limit access to abortion around the - [Q&A: Torture and International Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/q-a-torture-and-international-law/) - What is the history of international laws against torture? Akila: The prohibition on torture, at least in modern international law, began with the Universal Declaration on Human Rights that was passed in the 1960s and contained a general prohibition on torture and cruel and inhumane treatment. This prohibition was replicated in the 1970s in the - [U.S. Aversion to International Human Rights Treaties](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/u-s-aversion-to-international-human-rights-treaties/) - By Marie Wilken The United States prides itself on being a champion of human rights. Since its founding, the United States has often identified its belief in inalienable rights as a trait that has differentiates it from other countries. The United States pioneered international human rights law when Eleanor Roosevelt chaired the committee that drafted - [International Humanitarian Law And Access to Abortions: Compilation of Citations](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/international-humanitarian-law-and-access-to-abortions-compilation-of-citations/) - Sexual violence in today’s armed conflicts is systematically used against civilians to demoralize, destroy, terrorize, and even change the ethnic compositions of entire communities. For instance, the ongoing Syrian civil war has seen an estimated 50,000 rapes. Women there describe being drugged, blindfolded, and raped in groups. In Iraq, ISIS has systematically abducted girls and - [Canada’s New Foreign Aid Policy Recognizes the Ripple Effect of Women’s Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/canada-s-new-foreign-aid-policy-recognizes-the-ripple-effect-of-women-s-rights/) - By Marie Wilken On Friday, Canada’s Ministry of International Development released its Feminist International Assistance Policy, which refocuses Canada’s foreign aid on combatting gender inequality. Its unprecedented focus on gender sends a clear message about Canada’s dedication to women’s rights, and the policy will have a broader impact. The policy is an acknowledgement of the - [Why a U.S. Exit from the UNHRC is Counterproductive](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/why-a-u-s-exit-from-the-unhrc-is-counterproductive/) - by Marie Wilken On Tuesday, U.S. ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley appeared before the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for the first time. The UNHRC adopts resolutions and orders investigations into governments’ violations of human rights. Though the United States began a new three-year term in January, there are rumors it is - [CEDAW Casebank](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/cedaw-casebank/) - CEDAW Casebank The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) defines discrimination against women and requires states not only to prohibit discrimination but also to take affirmative steps in order to achieve gender equality. The Convention is legally binding upon States that have ratified the Convention and any laws in - [Yes, Human Rights belong in the UN Security Council, but they also belong in the White House](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/yes-human-rights-belong-in-the-un-security-council-but-they-also-belong-in-the-white-house/) - As global tensions mount and with daily atrocities in the news, there is increasing concern over how to protect civilians and vulnerable populations. The US holds the Presidency of the UN Security Council for April and has a chance to take a strong stance in defense of human rights. Instead, the US’ plans to hold - [Memorandum on the Defunding of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/memorandum-on-the-defunding-of-the-united-nations-population-fund-unfpa-annotated/) - United States Department of State Washington, D.C. 20520 APR 3 2017 The Honorable Bob Corker, Chairman Committee on Foreign Relations United States Senate Washington, DC 20510 Dear Mr. Chairman: This letter is to inform you that a determination has been made that funding for the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is precluded pursuant to the - [Can Your Organization Speak About or Provide Abortion Services under the US Helms Amendment and Trump Global Gag Rule?](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/funding-restrictions/) - Download PDF - [The Dutch v. Donald: The Netherlands Lead World’s Pro-Choice Battle](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-dutch-donald/) - by Chelsea Wilson Miller, CUNY Law Student and GJC Legal Intern Last month, millions of women and allies around the world marched in solidarity for women’s rights. We marched in support of a platform that included the right to ensure reproductive freedom and refusal to accept cuts or restrictions on people’s reproductive rights. We came together on that - [GENOCIDE AND GENDER: Daesh’s Crimes Against Yazidi Women and Girls](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/genocide-and-gender/) - For two and a half years Daesh has been committing genocide against the Yazidi religious minority in Northern Iraq and Syria. Much more than simply mass killing, this genocide is a daily horror for thousands of Yazidi women and girls who have been continually subject to the “non-killing” crimes of genocide. This briefing describes these - [After Trump’s First Week as President](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/after-trump-s-first-week-as-president/) - More important than Ever to Protect Women's Right to Abortion By: Eva Marie Wüst Vestergaard Last week was the inauguration of President Donald Trump. This was met with a global protest the following day, which millions of people participated in across the world. It is said to have been the largest protest in US in history. - [Infographic - Helms vs. Gag: Learn More](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/helms-vs-gag-learn-more/) - [Global Justice Center on Inauguration Day](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/global-justice-center-on-inauguration-day/) - Holding onto democracy and justice on Trump’s first day as president by Eva Marie Wüst Vestergaard Today is the inauguration of the United States of America’s 45th president, Donald Trump. This marks a significant change in US politics. It is still unclear exactly how this will affect the global rule of law, but there are several - [Trump proposals would violate international laws of discrimination at the expense of democracy](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/trump-proposals-would-violate-international-laws-of-discrimination-at-the-expense-of-democracy/) - by Eva Marie Wüst Vestergaard The inauguration of president-elect Donald Trump is one week away, and with it comes enormous potential for violations of international law. President-elect Trump has proposed plans for laws and policies that discriminate based on religion, race and gender. If enacted, these policies would have a shattering effect on America’s democracy, - [Trump could be committing serious war crimes and crimes against humanity](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/trump-could-be-committing-serious-war-crimes-and-crimes-against-humanity/) - by Eva Marie Wüst Vestergaard Over the course of the campaign trail, US president elect Donald Trump suggested many proposals on how to defeat ISIS. Many of which, including the use of torture, drone strikes, and nuclear weapons, would violate international law if fulfilled. Trump has previously criticized the US for their politically correctness in the fight - [The 43rd Anniversary of the Helms Amendment](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-43rd-anniversary-of-the-helms-amendment/) - Asking Obama to sign an Executive Order to help women raped in war by Eva Marie Wüst Vestergaard Tomorrow is the anniversary of the passing of the Helms Amendment. On this anniversary, the Global Justice Center is asking President Obama to sign an Executive Order that would clarify a misinterpretation of this policy. A misinterpretation, - [Global Justice Center on Genocide Prevention Day](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/global-justice-center-on-genocide-prevention-day/) - Commemorating Yazidi women and girls by Eva Marie Wüst Vestergaard Today is the UN’s second International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime, also called Genocide Prevention Day. This day falls on the anniversary of the Genocide Convention, which was implemented on - [Eliminate the Chilling Effect](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/eliminate-the-chilling-effect/) - A Hindrance on Abortions to Rape Victims by Eva Marie Wüst Vestergaard US abortion restrictions constrain abortion speech and services around the world. Under a Trump administration, it is likely these restrictions will be expanded, causing confusion for providers and harming women raped in war. For the past six years, the Global Justice Center has worked to - [US Abortion Restrictions on Foreign Assistance and the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/summary-and-recommendations-for-the-list-of-issues-prior-to-reporting-the-59th-session/) - Summary Since 1973, US abortion restrictions on foreign assistance have restricted the provision of abortion services and stifled abortion-related speech around the world. Today, these restrictions plainly contravene the object and purpose of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (“CAT” or “Convention”). These restrictions have no exceptions and - [GJC & OMCT Submission to the Committee against Torture in relation to its examination of the Sri Lanka’s Fifth State Party Report](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/gjc-omct-submission-to-the-committee-against-torture-in-relation-to-sri-lanka/) - I. Introduction In advance of the Committee against Torture’s forthcoming review of Sri Lanka, it is critical that the Committee pays particular attention to the disproportionate and abhorrent affects certain of Sri Lanka’s laws have on women and girls. The issues addressed herein, namely Sri Lanka’s abortion law, rape law and child marriage law, represent - [Janet Benshoof Teaches Federal Law Academy International Criminal Law Course](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/federal-law-academy-international-criminal-law-course/) - At the end of September GJC president Janet Benshoof traveled to the ethnic Kachin State near the China-Burma border to give a week-long training on international criminal law to Federal Law Academy (FLA) students in Mai JaYang. The FLA aims to nurture and advance ethnic youths to become legal practitioners who will then become advocates - [Prosecuting Genocide: European Union Obligations in the Age of Daesh](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/prosecuting-genocide-european-union-obligations-in-the-age-of-daesh/) - Daesh, also known as ISIS/ISIL, is committing genocide against religious and ethnic minorities, targeting women and girls in particular. The time is now for the EU to fulfil its international legal obligations to prevent and prosecute genocide. This means the EU must recognize this ongoing genocide, take steps to prevent and suppress it, and call - [On Nuremberg Anniversary, Call for Justice for Rape Victims](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/on-nuremberg-anniversary-call-for-justice-for-rape-victims/) - On the 70th Anniversary of the verdict in the Nuremberg trials, it is more important than ever that the international community recognizes and prosecutes when rape is used as a war crime or crime against humanity. Today, extremists groups like Boko Haram and ISIS regularly use rape as a tactic of terror. Join the GJC - [Briefing to the European Commission and Members of the European Parliament](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/briefing-to-the-european-commission-and-members-of-the-european-parliament/) - EU Humanitarian Aid Must Uphold the Rights of Girls and Women Under International Law SUMMARY A recent change in policy, but not in practice. In September 2015, the European Commission acknowledged that under international humanitarian law (IHL) and like all persons wounded in war, girls and women impregnated by rape in armed conflict have the - [Infographic - How the Helms Amendment Hurts Women Raped in War](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/how-the-helms-amendment-hurts-women-raped-in-war-2/) - [Growing International Consensus that US Must Lift Abortion Ban](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/growing-consensus-in-international-community-that-us-must-life-abortion-ban/) - by Liz Olson Denying women raped in war zones access to abortions is a violation of their fundamental human rights ­­-- yet the US continues to do so in the face of growing international criticism. Under the Geneva Conventions, women raped in war zones fall under the category of the “wounded and sick,” meaning that - [Respect Rape Victims’ Right to Abortions in Syria](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/respect-rape-victims-right-to-abortions-in-syria/) - by Carolina van der Mensbrugghe Since 2011, the Syrian civil war continues to inflict irreparable harm on its civilian population and has resulted in over one quarter million civilian deaths. A disturbing and specific factor of the Syrian conflict is the brutal and systematic use of rape and other forms of violence against women. Rape ­– whether - [43 years later, “Senator No” still impacting the lives of women and girls around the world.](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/43-years-later-senator-no-still-impacting-the-lives-of-women-and-girls-around-the-world/) - By Martin Fowler By the time Republican Jesse Helms ended his 30-year Senate career in 2003, his opponents and allies had long-since named him “Senator No.” From deriding civil rights reformers as “moral degenerates,” (noting their opposition to “the purely scientific, statistical evidence of natural racial distinctions in group intellect,”) to fervently opposing AIDS research - [What does it mean that John Kerry said “genocide”?](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/isis-is-committing-genocide-now-what/) - Against whom is ISIS committing genocide? Akila: The Yazidis, Shia Muslim populations, likely the Shia Turkmen, the Shia Shabak, and possibly Christians. How is ISIS committing genocide? Grant: There are five ways to commit genocide and ISIS is committing all of them. (1) It’s killing men of fighting age and elderly women. (2) It’s inflicting serious emotional and mental - [Remembering ISIS' Crimes of Genocide Against Yazidis on the Anniversary of the Sinjar Massacre](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/remembering-isis-crimes-of-genocide-against-yazidis-on-the-anniversary-of-the-sinjar-massacre/) - by Jessica Zaccagnino With the rise of non-state terrorist groups, such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State, the strategic face of war has changed. This shift has subsequently altered the experience of civilians in armed conflict. In this changing landscape, women and girls face distinct horrors in comparison to men. Groups such as ISIS - [Written Submission on the General Recommendation on “Access to Justice”](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/written-submission-on-the-general-recommendation-on-access-to-justice/) - The GJC welcomes the Committee’s Concept Note and looks forward to the general discussion on “Access to Justice” in preparation for a General Recommendation on the subject. In general, access to justice for women is essential to the advancement of women’s rights, including the prevention of any form of discrimination against women, including gender based - [Written statement to CSW 58 on “Challenges and achievements in the implementation of the Millennium Development Goals”](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/written-statement-to-csw-58-on-challenges-and-achievements-in-the-implementation-of-the-millennium-development-goals/) - Honorable Members of the Commission, The Global Justice Center (“GJC”) is an international human rights organization with special consultative status to the United Nations (“UN”). GJC is led by international law experts with a mission to enforce international human rights and humanitarian law to advance gender equality around the globe. GJC welcomes the CSW’s 58th - [GJC & Leitner's Myanmar Joint Submission to the UN Universal Periodic Review Twenty-Third Session of the UPR Working Group of the Human Rights Council 2-13 November 2015](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/gjc-leitner-s-myanmar-joint-submission-to-the-un-universal-periodic-review-twenty-third-session-of-the-upr-working-group-of-the-human-rights-council-2-13-november-2015/) - Analytical Background The Government of Myanmar (the “Government”) is obligated in its second cycle Universal Periodic Review (“UPR”) to provide detailed information on how it has implemented recommendations on human rights protections made during its first cycle UPR in 2011, as well on developments in human rights in Myanmar since 2011. In the context of - [Domestic Criminal Laws That Conflict with International Law: Burma's Abortion and Rape Laws - A Case Study](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/domestic-criminal-laws-that-conflict-with-international-law-burma-s-abortion-and-rape-laws-a-case-study/) - International law provides a model to improve often outdated domestic laws. Burma is party to many treaties, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Genocide Convention and the Geneva Conventions. International law requires states to comply with their treaty obligations - [The 2008 Constitution Breaches Myanmar/Burma’s Binding Obligations under International Law Including the United Nation’s Charter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-2008-constitution-breaches-myanmar-burma-s-binding-obligations-under-international-law-including-the-united-nation-s-charter/) - The 2008 Constitution Establishes a Civilian Government Without Full Sovereign Powers Under the 1947 Constitution, in place when Burma applied for United Nation (UN) membership in 1948, Burma was a sovereign state. The Union of the Republic of Myanmar, as established under the 2008 Constitution (the “Constitution”), is not a sovereign state as defined by - [Global Justice Center’s suggestions and comments regarding the National Election Bill of South Sudan](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/global-justice-center-s-suggestions-and-comments-regarding-the-national-election-bill-of-south-sudan/) - Topic Article Issues/Comments The Commission Art. 8 (1)[…] “Selection of the Commission Members shall take into consideration consultations with women and civil society groups and include representation of these groups.” Suggest including a concrete procedure for these consultations to guarantee the participation of women groups in the selection process. Art. 8 (1) “The Commission shall - [Call for the United Kingdom to Protect the Right to Abortion of Female Victims of Rape and Forced Pregnancy in Armed Conflict](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/call-for-the-united-kingdom-to-protect-the-right-to-abortion-of-female-victims-of-rape-and-forced-pregnancy-in-armed-conflict/) - The Global Justice Center urges the UK—as a key leader in the United Nations (“UN”) and European Union (“EU”) and the second largest bilateral donor of humanitarian assistance in the world—to take global leadership to ensure the rights of female war rape survivors. Such leadership should include guaranteeing the right of women and girls impregnated - [Women, Peace, and Security: Janet Benshoof, President, Global Justice Center](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/women-peace-and-security-janet-benshoof-president-global-justice-center/) - The last two decades have seen a dramatic transformation in the Security Council’s (Council) role in advancing and enforcing international humanitarian law (IHL). The changing nature of armed conflict, the universal acceptance of human rights, the calcification of certain precepts of international law into jus cogens, and advances in international law have all redefined the - [Security Council Resolutions on Women, Peace and Security in Practice: The Failed Case of Burma](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/security-council-resolutions-on-women-peace-and-security-in-practice-the-failed-case-of-burma/) - In 2000, the United Nations (UN) Security Council passed a historic resolution as its clarion call for ending sexual violence in conflict. This Resolution, SCR 1325, as well as the succeeding Resolutions, that together form the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Resolutions recognized the gender-specific impact of conflict and historic gender discrimination in criminal accountability - [Updating State National Action Plans to Ensure the International Humanitarian Rights of Women and Girls Raped in Armed Conflict](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/updating-state-national-action-plans-to-ensure-the-international-humanitarian-rights-of-women-and-girls-raped-in-armed-conflict/) - On the occasion of the Global Summit to End Sexual Violence in Conflict, the Global Justice Center encourages States to exercise global leadership on the protection of women and girls raped in armed conflict by updating their National Action Plans (NAPs) to include explicit language accepting their international humanitarian law obligations to provide non-discriminatory medical - [How the US is Blocking Access to Safe Abortion Services for Women and Girls Impregnated by Rape in Syria](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/how-the-us-is-blocking-access-to-safe-abortion-services-for-women-and-girls-impregnated-by-rape-in-syria/) - Throughout the Syrian conflict, Syrian government forces and government-controlled militia (Shabiha) have reigned terror over the civilian population. Alma, a victim of this violence, describes being held in a cell where she would kick and scream alongside 20 other women while they were drugged, blindfolded, and gang-raped. In the worst embodiment of this campaign, rape - [Lift the Ban: The Impact of US Abortion Restrictions on Kidnapped Nigerian Schoolgirls](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/lift-the-ban-the-impact-of-us-abortion-restrictions-on-kidnapped-nigerian-schoolgirls/) - When almost 300 Nigerian schoolgirls were recently kidnapped by local terrorist organization Boko Haram, the United States sent military and foreign aid to help rescue the victims and combat the threat posed by the militants. However, while the US support includes provisions for the victims’ protection and care, the abortion ban attached to US foreign - [European Commission Policies Deny Abortions to Girls and Women Impregnated by War Rape: A Call for Change](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/european-commission-policies-deny-abortions-to-girls-and-women-impregnated-by-war-rape-a-call-for-change/) - The lives of girls and women are routinely endangered by mass rape every day in nearly every war zone. Impregnated rape survivors are again endangered by being routinely denied abortions in EU-funded medical facilities. This is because the European Commission’s policy is that that national abortion laws, not the Geneva Conventions, provide the appropriate standard - [Myanmar's Long Road to Gender Equality: Issues for Myanmar's November 2015 UPR](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/myanmar-s-long-road-to-gender-equality-issues-for-myanmar-s-november-2015-upr/) - Myanmar’s upcoming Universal Periodic Review (“UPR”) provides an ideal venue to question the Government of Myanmar (“Government”) regarding its failure to ensure substantive equality for women as required by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the UN Charter, and international treaties including CEDAW. Since 2011, Myanmar’s “democratization” has neither improved women’s status nor dismantled structural - [Memo to Interested Partners Concerned About the U.S. Response to UPR Recommendations on U.S. Abortion Restrictions](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/memo-to-interested-partners-concerned-about-the-u-s-response-to-upr-recommendations-on-u-s-abortion-restrictions/) - U.S. Domestic Obligations Under Common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions Conflict with U.S. Abortion Restrictions on Humanitarian Aid for Female War Rape Victim Female war rape victims, civilians and servicewomen are persons “wounded and sick in armed conflict” with inalienable and universal rights to be provided comprehensive medical care based solely on their condition, - [15 Years after the Adoption of Security Council Resolution 1325: Enforcing International Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/15-years-after-the-adoption-of-security-council-resolution-1325-enforcing-international-law/) - "Moving the Women, Peace, and Security Agenda from Paper to Practice" Introduction Fifteen years ago, the UN Security Council undertook addressing and understanding the disproportionate and unique impact of armed conflict on women in its maintenance of international peace and security. To this end, the Council adopted Resolution 1325 (2000), creating the Women, Peace and - [For Rescued Girls in Nigeria, it is More Urgent Than Ever for Obama to Overturn the Helms Amendment](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/for-rescued-girls-in-nigeria-it-is-more-urgent-than-ever-for-obama-to-overturn-the-helms-amendment/) - The Nigerian military has continued to advance, recovering many of the women and girls captured by Boko Haram. It is thought that Boko Haram originally kidnapped over 2,000 women and girls. This week, the military is said to have rescued several hundred, most recently 234 from the Sambisa forest. There are reports that the military - [Five Countries Directly Challenge US Abortion Restrictions at Universal Periodic Review](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/five-countries-directly-challenge-us-abortion-restrictions-at-universal-periodic-review/) - Today, during the Universal Periodic Review of United States, several member states of the UN Human Rights Council made statements condemning the anti-abortion restrictions that the US places on foreign aid, such as the Helms Amendment. The UN Human Rights Council is responsible for monitoring the human rights records of the member states; every four - [Countdown to August 12th: Will the U.S. Step Up to the Plate at This Year’s Universal Periodic Review?](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/countdown-to-august-12th-will-the-u-s-step-up-to-the-plate-at-this-year-s-universal-periodic-review/) - At the 2nd Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of the United States, five countries- Belgium, France, the Netherlands, Norway, and the United Kingdom- urged the U.S. to reconsider its stance on the Helms Amendment. This amendment makes it illegal for any U.S. foreign aid to be directed to abortion services. This leaves many women and girls - [Over 50 Human Rights Groups Urge President Obama to Overturn Helms](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/over-50-human-rights-groups-urge-president-obama-to-overturn-helms/) - Today, more than 50 human rights groups from over 22 different countries took action on behalf of women and girls raped in conflict by sending a letter to President Obama pressuring him to issue an executive order that would lift the Helms abortion ban. Among the organizations that have signed the letter are the Global Justice Center, Amnesty International, the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice, Human Rights Watch, and the World Organization Against Torture. Groups have also signed onto the letter from conflict countries directly impacted by the abortion ban, including the West African Bar Association, the Iraq Women’s Network, the Syrian women’s League, and the Nigerian Medical Women’s Association. This letter is a testament to the pressure that is mounting on the United States to affirm the rights of female war rape victims as mandated under the Geneva Conventions. - [Trumps's First UN General Assembly Week: What to Expect](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/trumps-s-first-un-general-assembly-week-what-to-expect/) - By Julia d'Amours The 72nd UN General Assembly will start on Tuesday, September 19th. This year’s theme is “Focusing on People: Striving for Peace and a Decent Life for All on a Sustainable Planet,” as chosen by this year’s GA President Miroslav Lajčak of Slovakia. Lajčak has designated six themes for this year’s GA: improving - [The Winding History of the Global Gag Rule](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/gjc-global-gag-rule-9-13-17/) - By Julia d'Amours On September 7th, Senate lawmakers presented “a twofold rebuke” to the Trump Administration’s abortion policy. The proposed legislation would reinstate funding to the United Nations Population Fund and overturn the Global Gag Rule, a hallmark Republican presidential policy that bans US support for international organizations that offer or promote abortion services. The - [Shadow Report to the Committee against Torture in relation to its examination of Bosnia and Herzegovina's Sixth State Party Report](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/shadow-report-to-the-committee-against-torture-in-relation-to-its-examination-of-bosnia-and-herzegovina-s-sixth-state-party-report/) - I. Introduction In advance of the Committee against Torture’s forthcoming review of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), it is critical that the Committee pays particular attention to the disproportionate and dire effects certain BiH laws have on women and girls. The issues addressed herein, namely the failure to fully redress crimes of sexual violence occurring during - [Recommendations for the Terms of Reference and Implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2379 on Da’esh Accountability](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/recommendations-for-the-terms-of-reference-and-implementation-of-un-security-council-resolution-2379-on-da-esh-accountability/) - Subject: Recommendations for the Terms of Reference and Implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2379 on Da’esh Accountability Your Excellency, We are writing to you to call on your leadership in ensuring successful implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2379, initiating an Investigative Team for crimes committed by the so-called Islamic State in Iraq and - [What Is The Law? Armed Conflict and Abortion Services](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/what-is-the-law-armed-conflict-and-abortion-services/) - Women’s bodies have become part of the modern battlefield, where use of rape as a weapon of war shatters lives and decimates communities. Women and girls face life-threatening pregnancies arising from serious physical injury, risk of suicide, and the incapability of many young girls’ bodies to safely carry a baby to term. - [Oral Evidence to the UK APPG on Population, Development and Reproductive Health inquiry on “Abortion in the Developing World and in the UK”](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/oral-evidence-to-the-uk-appg-2/) - Thank you for the opportunity to present oral evidence to the APPG on Population, Development and Reproductive Heath today on the topic of Abortion Globally and in War Zones. I’m Akila Radhakrishnan, the Vice-President and Legal Director of the Global Justice Center, an international human rights organization focused on using international law to ensure women’s - [Humanitarian and Human Rights Groups send Letter to the European Commission on Abortion Services for Women and Girls in War Zones](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/humanitarian-and-human-rights-groups-send-letter-to-the-european-commission-on-abortion-services-for-women-and-girls-in-war-zones/) - Dear Vice-President Mogherini and Commissioner Stylianides, In September 2015, the European Commission laudably took a historic step in making clear that women and girls raped in armed conflict deserve equal medical protection under international humanitarian law (IHL). In response to Members of the European Parliament, you stated: “In cases where the pregnancy threatens a woman's - [Protecting safe abortion in humanitarian settings: overcoming legal and policy barriers](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/iprotecting-safe-abortion-in-humanitarian-settings-overcoming-legal-and-policy-barriers/) - GJC Vice-President, Akila Radhakrishnan, GJC Legal Fellow, Elena Sarver and GJC Staff Attorney, Grant Shubin published an article in Reproductive Health Matters. Abstract: Women and girls are increasingly the direct and targeted victims of armed conflict and studies show that they are disproportionately and differentially affected. However, humanitarian laws, policies, and protocols have yet to be meaningfully interpreted - [FAQ: How US Abortion Restrictions on Foreign Assistance, including the Global Gag Rule, Violate Women Rights & Human Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/faq-how-us-abortion-restrictions-on-foreign-assistance-including-the-global-gag-rule-violate-women-rights-human-rights/) - On January 23, 2017, his second day in office, President Trump issued an executive order reinstating the Global Gag Rule (“GGR” or “Gag Rule,” now termed “Protecting Life in Global Health Assistance”), restricting US funding for organizations that provide abortion services as a method of family planning. The GGR joins a multitude of other restrictions - [Submission to the UN Human Rights Council for US UPR](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/submission-to-the-un-human-rights-council-for-us-upr/) - Executive Summary During the United States’ (“US”) second-cycle Universal Periodic Review (“UPR”), multiple recommendations were made with respect to US abortion restrictions on foreign assistance, including the Helms Amendment. The US has failed to take any action on these recommendations, and in fact, in 2017, the Trump Administration entrenched and expanded the scope of these - [Submission to Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/submission-to-independent-international-fact-finding-mission-on-myanmar/) - This submission to the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Myanmar (“FFMM”) details the structural barriers that impede accountability for perpetrators and preclude justice for victims of human rights abuses in Myanmar. These obstacles, formalized with the “adoption” by a spurious referendum of a new Constitution of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar (the “Constitution”) - [US Abortion Restrictions on Foreign Aid and Their Impact on Free Speech and Free Association](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/us-abortion-restrictions-and-free-speech/) - The United States (US) imposes restrictions on its foreign aid that limit both services and speech related to abortion. They attach to nearly all recipients of foreign aid—limiting the activities, speech, and information that can be legally provided by doctors, health professionals, experts and advocates. These restrictions violate the US’s fundamental human rights obligations to - [Read Akila Radhakrishnan's Speech at the Feminist Majority Foundation's 2018 National Young Feminist Leadership Conference](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/read-akila-radhakrishnan-s-speech-at-the-feminist-majority-foundation-s-2018-national-young-feminist-leadership-conference/) - 2018 National Young Feminist Leadership Conference March 17, 2018 Washington, DC Text of Prepared Remarks "I think we all remember the image of Donald Trump, on his third day in office, surrounded by a group of white men, with Mike Pence looking anxiously over his shoulder, signing an executive order stripping women and girls around - [Iraq’s Criminal Laws Preclude Justice For Women And Girls](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/iraq-s-criminal-laws-preclude-justice-for-women-and-girls/) - In light of the gender dynamics at the root of Daesh’s violence, gender must also be at the center of accountability. With justice for Daesh beginning, this Briefing details how Iraq’s current legal framework precludes meaningful justice for women and girls. It highlights the gender gaps in Iraq’s criminal laws and identifies opportunities for broader - [U.S. Restrictions on Free Speech & Association: How U.S. Anti-Abortion Policy Violates International Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/us-restrictions-on-free-speech-and-association/) - Since 1973 and the passage of Roe v. Wade, the United States has imposed restrictions on how foreign aid money is spent when it comes to abortion. These restrictions directly impact health care providers by reducing the services and information they can give. In fact, the restrictions are so far-reaching that they also limit the - [Exporting Censorship: How U.S. Anti-Abortion Policy Violates International Laws on Freedom of Speech and Association](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/exporting-censorship-how-u-s-anti-abortion-policy-violates-international-laws-on-freedom-of-speech-and-association/) - U.S. abortion restrictions on foreign aid impact the freedoms of speech and association and prevent women from accessing necessary healthcare, limit democratic debate, and restrain other countries from complying with their human rights obligations. In short, they violate international law. U.S. Restrictions and International Law The freedoms of speech and association are central to the - [Rebuilding Iraq Should Include Mental Health Care for Yazidi Survivors](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/blog/) - By Maftuna Saidova The Yazidi community are an ethnic minority formerly located in northern Iraq. They are one of the groups who suffered under the brutal and inhumane control of ISIS. When ISIS captured Sinjar, they abducted thousands of Yazidi women and sold them into slavery within the lucrative sex trade created among ISIS fighters. Human - [Sign-on letter to DOJ regarding their refusal to defend key provisions of the Affordable Care Act](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/sign-on-letter-to-doj-regarding-their-refusal-to-defend-key-provisions-of-the-affordable-care-act/) - Dear Attorney General Sessions: We write in strong opposition to the Department of Justice’s recent decision not to defend the constitutionality of major parts of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The Department’s position would once again allow insurance companies to deny coverage or charge more to people with pre-existing medical conditions and could embolden insurance - [Justice for Queer Iraqis is Not Optional](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/justice-for-queer-iraqis-is-not-optional/) - By Merrite Johnson Daesh’s crimes against queer Iraqis (or people perceived of being queer, or not sufficiently adhering to traditional gender norms) have been well-documented, including harassment campaigns, arbitrary executions, and forced disappearances. These crimes were also a tactic for building popular support for Daesh’s rule. Since the UN voted last year to create an - [Org Sign-on to Letter re Matter of A-B-](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/org-sign-on-to-letter-re-matter-of-a-b/) - Dear Attorney General Sessions, The 465 undersigned faith-based, immigration, civil rights, human rights, worker rights, and anti-violence service and advocacy organizations write to express our profound concern for the lives and safety of immigrant survivors of domestic violence following your wrongful decision in Matter of A-B-. We ask that you immediately revoke this legally and - [The UN General Assembly Ignores Gender in Debates on the Responsibility to Protect](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-un-general-assembly-ignores-gender-in-debates-on-the-responsibility-to-protect/) - By Hannah Sarokin and Brandon Golfman The 90s were a time of multiculturalism, grunge music, Friends, and the world-wide web. It was also a decade marked by devastating humanitarian crises, including widespread sexual and gender-based violence. From Rwanda to the Balkans, mass conflict and genocide rattled global security and peace processes and shed light on - [How the International Community is Failing the Syrian Torture Victims](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/how-the-international-community-is-failing-the-syrian-torture-victims/) - By Maftuna Saidova June 26th was the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture. In honor of this day, we should remember the victims who were tortured (and continue to be tortured) in Syrian detention centers and evaluate what is being done to hold the perpetrators responsible. Neither the Syrian government nor the international - [The Rwandan Genocide: Rape and HIV Used as Weapons of War](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-rwandan-genocide-rape-and-hiv-used-as-weapons-of-war/) - By Katya Kolluri The Rwandan Genocide, a horrific event in human history, is once again making its way into current news due to Jina Moore’s recent article in The New Yorker. Moore’s piece explores how those responsible for the Rwandan mass slaughter (termed genocidaires), may be freed years before their sentence ends. One of them - [The Role of Women in Peace-Building and Conflict Prevention](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/title/) - By Maftuna Saidova In 2000, the UN Security Council enacted Resolution 1325 (SCR 1325), a legally binding international agreement which promotes the inclusion of gender issues in all UN initiatives such as conflict prevention and peace-building processes. SCR 1325 is also the accomplishment of NGOs mobilizing to raise the complexities of gender politics to the international level - [The Devastating Consequences of Inadequate Medical Care Within ICE Detention](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-devastating-consequences-of-inadequate-medical-care-within-ice-detention/) - By Katya Kolluri While Attorney General Jeff Sessions publicly introduced the “zero tolerance” immigration policy in May that caused children to be separated from their families, another Department of Homeland Security policy was quietly instituted five months earlier. In December, Trump signed off on a new directive which allows the detention of pregnant women, except - [Gender Crimes Require Gender Justice for Burma's Rohingya](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/gender-crimes-require-gender-justice-for-burma-s-rohingya/) - Rohingya women and girls have suffered targeted atrocities at the hands of Burma’s security forces. Amounting to crimes against humanity and genocide, these attacks were gendered in their conception, commission, and consequences. Accordingly, gender must be central to any and all efforts aimed at justice and accountability for the crimes committed against the Rohingya. For - [Michelle Bachelet: A Beacon of Hope for Gender Parity in Conflict Resolution and Human Rights Development](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/michelle-bachelet-a-beacon-of-hope-for-gender-parity-in-conflict-resolution-and-human-rights-development/) - By Sofia Garcia “Wherever there is conflict, women must be part of the solution,” said Michelle Bachelet in 2012 as the head of UN Women. As of this September, she now holds the highest office in the human rights sphere as the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, working to protect and promote human rights on - [Civil Society Sign-on Letter to Department of State re: Human Rights Reports](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/civil-society-sign-onletter-to-department-of-state-re-human-rights-reports/) - Dear Secretary Pompeo, As development of the 2018 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices begins, we are writing to raise our deep concern about significant changes in last year’s report, including the deletion of the reproductive rights subsection and limited reporting on prevalence and incidence of gender- based violence. The undersigned 97 civil society organizations - [Factsheet: Structural Barriers To Accountability For Human Rights Abuses In Burma](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/fact-sheet-structural-barriers-to-accountability-for-human-rights-abuses-in-burma/) - Recent reports detailing the heinous human rights abuses committed in Rakhine State in Burma have triggered calls for perpetrators to be held accountable, both domestically and internationally. The Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (“ICC”) has opened a preliminary examination1 and the UN Human Rights Council has established an investigative mechanism to - [Letter to The Honourable Fatou Bensouda, Chief Prosecutor, "Re: Preliminary Examination into the Situation of the Rohingya in Myanmar"](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-the-honourable-fatou-bensouda-chief-prosecutor-re-preliminary-examination-into-the-situation-of-the-rohingya-in-myanmar/) - Dear Prosecutor Bensouda, The Global Justice Center writes to congratulate the Office of the Prosecutor (OTP) on the decision to open a preliminary examination into the deportation of the Rohingya from Myanmar to Bangladesh. Since impunity has long been the rule and not the exception in Myanmar, this examination offers a glimmer of hope that - [It's Time for Comprehensive Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights in Latin America](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/why-latin-america-needs-comprehensive-sexual-and-reproductive-health-and-rights/) - By: Sofia Garcia In 1990, women in Argentina declared September 28th to be the Day for Legal Abortion in Latin America and the Caribbean. 28 years later, we now recognize it as International Safe Abortion Day, a day where women and men all over the world take to the streets to demand access to legal - [Sign-on letter: FY20 International FP/ RH OMB Request](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/sign-on-letter-fy20-international-fp-rh-omb-request/) - Dear Director Mulvaney: The undersigned 52 organizations, committed to advancing the sexual and reproductive health and rights of people around the world, write to urge the President to request that the FY 2020 budget include $1.66 billion for international family planning and reproductive health (FP/RH) programs, including $111 million for UNFPA, and reverse harmful policies that undermine these - [Why the US Needs CEDAW: Abortion as a Human Right in the United States](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/why-the-us-needs-cedaw-abortion-as-a-human-right-in-the-united-states/) - By Jessica Pierson This year marks the 42nd anniversary of the Hyde Amendment, a legislative provision barring the use of federal funds to pay for abortion except in extreme circumstances. The Hyde Amendment has been a key way in which conservative lawmakers have been able to systematically deny a large portion of women their constitutional - [Justice for Victims of Sexual Violence in Conflict: Is It Possible?](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/justice-for-victims-of-sexual-violence-in-conflict-is-it-possible/) - By: Sofia Garcia Just last week, the United Nations Security Council held two Arria-formula meetings open to UN member states, observers, NGOs, and the press. On both occasions, the room felt heavy; men tiptoed around their words and women sat upright, listening intently, almost in indignation. The meetings were titled “Moving from a Culture of - [Submission to the International Law Commission: The Need to Integrate a Gender-Perspective into the Draft Convention on Crimes against Humanity](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/submission-to-the-international-law-commission-the-need-to-integrate-a-gender-perspective-into-the-draft-convention-on-crimes-against-humanity-2/) - I. Intro The Global Justice Center, international human rights organization, welcomes the International Law Commission’s (“ILC”) decision to codify crimes against humanity to form the basis of a potential Convention. Unlike war crimes and genocide, crimes against humanity are not codified in a treaty outside the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (“Rome Statute”). The - [16 Days of Activism: The Fight Against Gender-Based Violence Continues](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/16-days-of-activism-the-fight-against-gender-based-violence-continues/) - By: Sofia Garcia Every year starting on November 25th, the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence Campaign begins. Since 1991, the fight against gender-based violence has been immortalized from November 25th until December 10th in hopes of galvanizing action to end violence against women and girls worldwide. This year’s #HearMeToo theme is a continuation - [Senate 109 Coverage Ban](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/senate-109-coverage-ban/) - As organizations committed to advancing reproductive health, rights, and justice we believe each of us should be able to make decisions about abortion with dignity and respect, and without politicians interfering. We oppose S. 109, legislation to make the Hyde Amendment permanent and impose burdensome regulations designed to disincentivize insurers from providing abortion coverage. We - [Destruction of the Spirit: The Critical Role of Gender in Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/destruction-of-the-spirit-the-critical-role-of-gender-in-genocide/) - Genocide is a crime of destruction, an attempt to annihilate a group of people and render them irrelevant, invisible, and eventually forgotten. Popular conceptions of genocide have long characterized it mainly as a crime of mass killing, the majority of victims of which tend to be men. During genocidal campaigns, women and girls are more - [Nadia Murad, Dr. Denis Mukwege, and the Promise of Justice](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/nadia-murad-dr-denis-mukwege-and-the-promise-of-justice/) - By: Sofia Garcia In 2008, the United Nations Security Council unanimously adopted a resolution condemning the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war. It states that sexual violence in war and armed conflict constitutes a war crime as well as a threat to international peace and security. Ten years later, the Norwegian Nobel - [Comments in Response to Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/comments-in-response-to-patient-protection-and-affordable-care-act/) - First, the Proposed Rule would impose undue and onerous burdens on both insurers and consumers that violate women’s fundamental human rights, including to non-discriminatory health care. Second, by singling out abortion for special treatment from all other health services, the Proposed Rule reinforces the already stigmatizing and discriminatory treatment of abortion under the PPACA. Third, the Proposed Rule does not, as claimed, fulfill Congressional intent, since Congressional intent under the PPACA was to allow issuers to decide for themselves whether to provide abortion coverage beyond the limited exceptions allowed under the discriminatory and harmful federal Hyde Amendment. Finally, the Proposed Rule imposes undue burdens on insurers and consumers that will lead to unnecessary restrictions on comprehensive health care for women. - [Global Justice Center’s Trip to Nigeria](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/global-justice-center-s-trip-to-nigeria/) - Two of GJC’s staff members, Akila and Sherrie, recently returned from a two week long fact-finding trip in Nigeria. GJC is currently working on two projects concerning Nigeria; namely, the August 12thcampaign and the Genocide campaign. This trip gave valuable insight into how to best address the needs of the people in GJC’s projects. Akila and Sherrie traveled to - [GJC President Janet Benshoof Questions Burma’s Minister of Foreign Affairs](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/gjc-president-janet-benshoof-question-burma-s-minister-of-foreign-affairs/) - Below you can read the question that Janet asked Wunna Maung Lwin, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Myanmar, about accountability for human rights abuser General Ko Ko at the Council on Foreign Relations. Janet Benshoof: Thank you very much, my name is Janet Benshoof, Global Justice Center. After a 4 year on the ground - [Indict Myanmar’s General Ko Ko](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/indict-myanmar-s-general-ko-ko/) - A war criminal accused of ordering attacks on civilians, murder, enslavement, execution without trial, sexual violence, pillage and torture is scheduled to testify about Myanmar’s human rights record at the UN Friday, Nov. 6th. With overwhelming evidence of his crimes exposed in a Harvard Law School report, General Ko Ko should be arrested when he reaches Geneva. Instead, - [On Anniversary of Roe v. Wade, US Can’t Forget Women Overseas](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/on-anniversary-of-roe-vs-wade-us-can-t-forget-women-overseas/) - Forty-three years ago today, the Supreme Court deemed abortion a constitutionally protected right for women in the United States in Roe v. Wade, taking a huge step forward for women’s equality. Since then, anti-choice lawmakers at the federal and state-level have been working concertedly to render this right meaningless by restricting access to abortion. The - [Six Years Later, No Action on Helms](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/august-12-timeline/) - Today the White House is holding the first “United State of Women Summit", focused on celebrating what the US has achieved on gender equality and what more there is to do. One item not on the agenda is the Helms Amendment, a decades-old amendment that prevents any US foreign aid from going to any organization that - [Letter to President Obama: United States Restrictions on Abortion Access Violates International Humanitarian Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-president-obama-united-states-restrictions-on-abortion-access-violates-international-humanitarian-law/) - Louise Doswald-Beck, the former Head of the International Committee of the Red Cross' Legal Division (ICRC), former Director of the University Centre for International Humanitarian Law (CUDIH) and former Secretary General of the International Commission of Jurists wrote to President Obama on how the US abortion prohibition attached to humanitarian aid violates the rights of women - [Introduction and Remarks by Janet Benshoof at GJC Side Event, "Making IHL Work for Women and Girls"](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/briefing-5-humanitarian-aid-policies-the-geneva-conventions-myths-realities-2/) - Introduction Download PDF Remarks Download PDF - [US Restrictions on Reproductive Healthcare are Racist and Violate International Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/us-restrictions-on-reproductive-healthcare-are-racist-and-violate-international-law/) - By Jessica Pierson Because of social and economic inequality in the United States, restrictions on reproductive healthcare, including abortion, disproportionately harm women of color. Just over half of the seven million women subject to the Hyde Amendment, and consequently disenfranchised of their right to access abortion, are women of color.. Additionally, according to a report - [Observations and Topics to be Included in the List of Issues United States of America: US Abortion Restrictions on Foreign Assistance](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/observations-and-topics-to-be-included-in-the-list-of-issues-united-states-of-america-us-abortion-restrictions-on-foreign-assistance/) - With this submission, the Global Justice Center (GJC) and the Center for Health and Gender Equity (CHANGE) aim to provide guidance to the pre-session Working Group in its preparation of the list of issues to be examined during the Human Rights Committee’s (“Committee”) review of the United States (US). It specifically focuses on areas of - [Joint NGO Letter to the Office of the Special Representative to the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/joint-ngo-letter-to-the-office-of-the-special-representative-to-the-secretary-general-on-sexual-violence-in-conflict/) - Joint NGO Letter to the Office of the Special Representative to the Secretary‑General on Sexual Violence in Conflict in response to the Framework of Cooperation between the Government of Bangladesh and the United Nations on addressing conflict-related sexual violence against the displaced Rohingya population from Myanmar hosted in Bangladesh and the - [Censorship Exported: The Impact of Trump’s Global Gag Rule on the Freedom of Speech and Association](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/censorship-exported-the-impact-of-trump-s-global-gag-rule-on-the-freedom-of-speech-and-association/) - Joint policy brief by the Global Justice Center and the Center for Health and Gender Equality (CHANGE) In January 2017, President Trump signed a presidential memorandum reinstating the Global Gag Rule (GGR), an onerous policy that not only limits the provision of abortion services as a method of family planning but also restricts a wide - [Letter to HHS: Comments in Response to Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2020](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-hhs-comments-in-response-to-patient-protection-and-affordable-care-act-notice-of-benefit-and-payment-parameters-for-2020/) - Dear Secretary Azar and Administrator Verma: The Global Justice Center (“GJC”) submits this comment in response to the Department of Health and Human Services’ (“HHS”) Proposed Rule entitled Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2020 (the “Proposed Rule”). For purposes of this submission, commentary is limited to the - [Letter to the CEDAW Committee: Supplementary information to Myanmar’s Report on an exceptional basis, scheduled for review by the CEDAW Committee at its 72nd Session](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/supplementary-information-to-myanmar-s-report-on-an-exceptional-basis-scheduled-for-review-by-the-cedaw-committee-at-its-72nd-session/) - Dear Committee Members, This letter supplements and responds to particularly concerning sections of the 6 February 2019 Exceptional Report submitted by Myanmar, which is scheduled for review by the Committee on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (“Committee”) on February 22, 2019 during its 72nd Session. It is the view of the undersigned - [No Safe Havens: Criminal Accountability as a Deterrent of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/no-safe-havens-criminal-accountability-as-a-deterrent-of-conflict-related-sexual-violence/) - By: Maryna Tkachenko On October 31, 2000, United Nations Security Council adopted Resolution 1325, a stepping-stone in ensuring that all states “take special measures to protect women and girls from gender-based violence.” In the past two decades, more resolutions followed along with more discussions around the gender-sensitive nature of armed conflicts and peacebuilding efforts. Although - [NGO Joint Letter to UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/ngo-joint-letter-to-un-secretary-general-antonio-guterres/) - Excellency, We write to welcome your initiative to review United Nations operations in Myanmar, and to strongly urge you ensure that the review is open, transparent and that its findings and recommendations are made public. Given the gravity of the abuses in Myanmar, the review offers an important opportunity to establish “whether everything possible to - [Coalition Sign-On Letter for House "Born Alive" Amendment](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/coalition-sign-on-letter-for-house-born-alive-amendment/) - Dear Representatives, We, the undersigned reproductive health, rights, and justice organizations, write in strong opposition to any attempts to interfere with evidence-based patient care and medical practice, such as the amendment Rep. Scalise filed with the Rules Committee to amend H.R. 986. S The potential House vote is the latest in a series of anti-choice - [Open Letter to United Nations Secretary General on UN Operations in Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/open-letter-to-united-nations-secretary-general-on-un-operations-in-myanmar/) - Reference: TIGO ASA 16/2019.001 Index: ASA 16/0113/2019 António Guterres UN Secretary General 25 March 2019 Excellency, We write to welcome your initiative to review United Nations operations in Myanmar, and to strongly urge you ensure that the review is open, transparent and that its findings and recommendations are made public. Given the gravity of the - [Canary in the Coal Mine: Abortion & the Commission on Unalienable Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/canary-in-the-coal-mine-abortion-the-commission-on-unalienable-rights/) - GJC President Akila Radhakrishnan and GJC Legal Adviser Elena Sarver published this article in the Columbia Human Rights Law Review. Abstract: This past July, the Trump administration announced the creation of a new body with a curious name—the “Commission on Unalienable Rights.” Secretary of State Mike Pompeo described the effort as an attempt to “ground our discussion of - [GJC President Janet Benshoof Speaks at the World Humanitarian Summit Opening Plenary Session](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/gjc-president-janet-benshoof-speaks-at-the-whs-opening-plenary/) - GJC President, Janet Benshoof, spoke in Istanbul, Turkey, on May 24, 2016, on GJC’s commitment to ensuring women have equal protection under the Geneva Conventions. You can read the full transcript below. Transcript, Janet Benshoof’s remarks, World Humanitarian Summit, May 24, 2016 Thank you, distinguished participants. My name is Janet Benshoof, and I’m the - [Making International Humanitarian Law Work For Women and Girls](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/making-ihl-work-for-women-and-girls/) - The World Humanitarian Summit (WHS) has admirably taken on the task of rethinking and retooling humanitarian action to meet the challenges facing the world today. In modern conflicts, the increased targeting of civilians, including the strategic use of sexual violence as a tactic of war, means that humanitarian action must be tailored to respond to - [Justice in Sri Lanka Must Include Investigations of Genocide Allegations](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/justice-in-sri-lanka-must-include-investigations-of-genocide-allegations/) - Seven years ago this month, a quarter century of armed conflict in Sri Lanka reached its violent conclusion. The Government of Sri Lanka’s take-no-prisoners approach to defeating the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), also known as the “Tamil Tigers,” was accompanied by massive violations of international humanitarian law, international human rights law, and international - [Submission to CEDAW Committee on Women’s Rights in Conflict and Jus Cogens Rules](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/cedaw-general-recommendation-on-women-s-rights-in-conflict-and-jus-cogens-rules/) - The Global Justice Center (the “GJC”) is a legal organization whose mission is to promote justice and gender equality using international law. The GJC seeks to create legal precedents and legal tools by advocating for the progressive interpretation, and aggressive enforcement, of international law, including treaty based law, Security Council resolutions (“SCRs”), and customary international - [European Parliament Members Ask President Obama to End Inhumane Abortion Ban on Aid to War Rape Victims](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/european-parliament-members-ask-president-obama-to-end-inhumane-abortion-ban-on-aid-to-war-rape-victims/) - On March 7, 2013, the European Parliament issued an open letter to President Obama, urging him to lift US abortion restrictions on aid to war rape victims. The Global Justice Center's August 12th Campaign challenges the denial of life-saving abortions to girls and women who are raped and impregnated in armed conflict, as a violation - [Victory! UK House of Lords Report on Sexual Violence in Conflict Cites to GJC](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/victory-uk-house-of-lords-report-on-sexual-violence-in-conflict-cites-to-gjc/) - The House of Lord's Select Committee on Sexual Violence in Conflict published a report on March 22, 2016 titled, "Sexual Violence in Conflict: A War Crime," that includes strong language supporting the EU's "Anti-Helms Amendment" and cites to GJC. This report demonstrates strong UK support for the EU's leadership in divorcing itself from the US' - [When Terrorists Perpetrate Genocide: Legal Obligations to Respond to Daesh’s Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/when-terrorists-perpetrate-genocide-legal-obligations-to-respond/) - Daesh is perpetrating genocide of the Yazidi, Christian, and other minorities as acknowledged by US Secretary of State John Kerry, the EU Parliament, Iraq, and others. The 1948 Genocide Convention was passed to protect distinct values central to humanity: the right of protected groups to their continued existence and the right of all people to live in a world enriched by diversity and marked by tolerance. Genocide is defined as acts to destroy national, ethnic, racial or religious groups, as distinct entities. The joint attacks against Daesh in August 2014 to “avert potential genocide” of the Yazidi saved lives but did not stop Daesh from continuing to perpetrate genocide. - [Daesh’s Gender-Based Crimes against Yazidi Women and Girls Include Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/daesh-s-gender-based-crimes-against-yazidi-women-and-girls-include-genocide/) - Daesh Strategically and Intentionally Targets Yazidi Women and Girls for Heinous Crimes on Ideological Grounds Daesh continues to commit heinous crimes against women and girls, and, to date, has done so with impunity. Victims and witnesses who have fled Daesh control consistently describe being subjected to attacks that aim to terrorize and silence the population. But even - [We’ve Been Here Before: Keeping Our Promise of “Never Again” to Victims of Daesh’s Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/we-ve-been-here-before-keeping-our-promise-of-never-again-to-victims-of-daesh-s-genocide/) - Starting on April 7, 1994, upwards of around 800,000 Rwandans, predominantly Tutsis were massacred over the course of 100 days. Of those killed, an estimated 250,000–300,000 Tutsi women and girls were raped; many were even raped to death. The suffering of the women and girls who survived rape, enslavement, and sexual mutilation continues even today. The response - [Talking Points: The Genocide Convention Requires that the UK Take All Measures Possible to Stop ISIS' Genocide Crimes](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-united-states-isis-and-genocide/) - UK Prime Minister David Cameron and President Obama, in support of the August 14, 2014 air attacks against ISIS/Daesh in the Sinjar region of Iraq, pledged to “avert a genocide.” This critical intervention saved countless Yazidi lives and facilitated the rescue of others, but it did not avert ISIS from perpetrating genocide against the Yazidis, - [Global Justice Center sends Letter to the Office of the Prosecutor of the ICC Asking Them to Investigate Genocide and Gender Crimes Against Yazidi Women and Girls](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/index-php-publications-letters-660-global-justice-center-sends-letter-to-the-office-of-the-prosecutor-of-the-icc-asking-them-to-investigate-genocide-and-gender-crimes-against-yazidi-women-and-girls/) - It is imperative that all possible measures are taken to investigate, address and deter the heinous crimes being committed by the so-called Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham/Greater Syria (“ISIS” aka “ISIL”, “Daesh” or “IS”, hereinafter “ISIS”). There currently exists credible information and evidence to believe that ISIS is committing a wide range of crimes against civilians and minority populations in the areas in which it operates. This includes: genocide against Yazidis; genocide against the Shia Shabak and Shia Turkmen; and crimes against humanity, ethnic cleansing and war crimes against minority populations, including Yazidi, Shabak, Turkmen, Christian, Sabeab-Mandaean and Kaka’i, and civilians under its control. Women and girls have been intentionally and strategically targeted by ISIS on ideological grounds and systematically raped, enslaved, killed and tortured. - [Factual and Legal Basis for Prosecution of Myanmar Minister of Home Affairs and Minister for Immigration and Population, Lt.-Gen. Ko Ko Pursuant to The Swiss Criminal Code and The Convention Against Torture](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/factual-and-legal-basis-for-prosecution-of-minister-of-home-affairs-and-minister-for-immigration-and-population-lt-gen-ko-ko-pursuant-the-swiss-criminal-code-and-the-convention-against-torture/) - This Swiss criminal complaint against Lieutenant-General (“Lt.-Gen.”) Ko Ko, Myanmar’s Minister of Home Affairs and Minister for Immigration and Population, was prepared in connection with his leadership of Myanmar’s committee to its Universal Periodic Review (“UPR”) at the United Nations Human Rights Council (“HRC”) in Geneva on November 6, 2015. According to this indictment, Lt.-Gen. Ko Ko bears command responsibility for war crimes, crimes against humanity, and torture committed by his subordinates that he failed to prevent or punish. Under the principle of universal jurisdiction, which is incorporated into Swiss law, Lt.- Gen. Ko Ko can be tried in a Swiss court for these international crimes. - [Letter from EU High Representative Federica Mogherini on EU Humanitarian Aid](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-from-federica-mogherini-on-eu-humanitarian-aid/) - September 11, 2015: Letter from the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Vice President of the Commission, Federica Mogherini in response to the joint letter to the EU Commission on how EU humanitarian aid fails female victims of war rape. Download PDF - [Read GJC Letter to Congress on Ensuring Abortion Access for Women Raped in War](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/read-gjc-letter-to-congress-on-ensuring-abortion-access-for-women-raped-in-war/) - Download PDF - [Promises Not Progress: Myanmar/Burma's National Plan for Women Falls Short of Gender Equality and CEDAW](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/promises-not-progress-burma-s-national-plan-for-women-falls-short-of-gender-equality-and-cedaw/) - In late 2013, the Government of Myanmar (“the Government”) issued a National Strategic Action Plan for the Advancement of Women 2013-2022 (NSPAW) based in part on its obligations under the Convention to End All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW). Heralded as a “historic and essential step towards substantive equality between women and men,” NSPAW was released amidst a flurry of other governmental plans, strategies, promises, and actions ostensibly aimed at transforming the country into a democracy. However, conspicuously missing from these reforms, including NSPAW, were deeper systemic overhauls of the many legal, political, cultural and socio-economic barriers to the full enjoyment of human rights in Myanmar which must underpin any true democracy. - [Iraq: Submission to the United Nations Universal Periodic Review](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/iraq-submission-to-the-united-nations-universal-periodic-review/) - Submission to the UN Human Rights Council Universal Periodic Review – 34th Session Iraq I. Introduction In advance of the Human Rights Council’s forthcoming review of Iraq, it is critical that the Council pay particular attention to the need for fundamental reform of Iraq’s legal system in order to achieve justice for Daesh’s victims, and - [Holistic Care for Victims of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/holistic-care-for-victims-of-conflict-related-sexual-violence/) - By: Maryna Tkachenko Conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) takes on various forms: rape, forced pregnancy, forced sterilization, forced abortion, sexual exploitation, trafficking, genital mutilation, and other heinous forms of sexual abuse. Although both women and men can become targets of sexual violence, women constitute the majority of the victims. It has been widely recognized that all - [#BringBackOurGirls: Five Years Later](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/bringbackourgirls-five-years-later/) - By: Maryna Tkachenko On the night of April 14, 2014, Boko Haram—a jihadist terrorist group that aims to purify Islam in Nigeria—kidnapped 276 girls from a boarding school in Chibok, Nigeria. Not long after, Boko Haram broadcasted images of the captives, wearing dark gowns. Although Boko Haram had previously engaged in armed attacks on the local - [Breaking Decades of Silence: Sexual Violence During the Khmer Rouge](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/breaking-decades-of-silence-sexual-violence-during-the-khmer-rouge/) - By: Maryna Tkachenko April 17, 2019 marked the 44th anniversary since the Communist Party of Kampuchea (the Khmer Rouge) took over Cambodia. While in power, the party sought to create a Cambodian “master race,” resulting in years of repression, forced labor, torture, and massacres. While the recent trials at the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts - [Open letter to SG for a credible list](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/open-letter-to-sg-for-a-credible-list/) - Dear Mr. Secretary-General, We are writing regarding your annual report on children and armed conflict and its annexes. As a diverse group of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) working on alleviating humanitarian suffering and protecting human rights, we strongly support the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1612 Monitoring and Reporting Mechanism (MRM). As a key tool for - [Access to Contraception for Military Servicemembers](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/access-to-contraception-for-military-servicemembers/) - Dear Chairman Smith: As organizations committed to protecting and improving reproductive health and rights, we write in support of the amendments offered by Representative Speier to the FY20 National Defense Authorization Act that would ensure that non-active duty servicemembers and military dependents have access to copay-free birth control, ensure access to emergency contraception for survivors - [Letter to Ambassador Power on the Life and Health Risks of Female Peacekeepers](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-ambassador-power-on-the-life-and-health-risks-of-female-peacekeepers/) - Dear Ambassador Power, I am writing with regard to your much needed call at the Security Council on October 9, 2014 for increased protection of UN peacekeepers. I urge you to support changes in a US policy that heightens the life and health risks of female peacekeepers. Female peacekeepers serving in areas where the use - [Bringing a Gendered Lens to Genocide Prevention and Accountability](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/bringing-a-gendered-lens-to-genocide-prevention-and-accountability/) - By Maryna Tkachenko More than 70 years after the adoption of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, mass atrocity crimes are still carried out in systematic and, equally important, gendered ways. The lack of emphasis on the gendered nature of coordinated crimes not only jeopardizes international security but also - [Shifting Good Policy to Practice: Armed Conflict, Humanitarian Aid, and Reproductive Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/shifting-good-policy-to-practice-armed-conflict-humanitarian-aid-and-reproductive-rights/) - Amidst new and renewed attacks on sexual and reproductive health and rights, it is more important than ever for humanitarian aid policies to explicitly include abortion services. Lack of Services is Life-Threatening Women’s bodies have become part of the modern battlefield. This is true both in the literal battlefield, where conflict-related sexual violence is as - [Sign-on letter condemning Trump-Pence administration's treatment of migrants at border detention camps](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/sign-on-letter-condemning-trump-pence-administration-s-treatment-of-migrants-at-border-detention-camps/) - (Washington, DC) – As advocates for sexual and reproductive health, rights, and justice, our vision of the world is built upon dismantling systems of power and oppression. We recognize that our work does not occur in a vacuum and must respond to injustices happening right now and, in particular, the humanitarian crisis at the United - [Amicus Curiae Brief for Appellant - The Republic of Marshall Islands vs. The United States of America in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/nuclear-amicus/) - This brief of amicus curiae the Global Justice Center (GJC) is submitted pursuant to Rule 29(a) of the Federal Rules of Appellate Procedure and Ninth Circuit Rule 29-2 with the consent of all parties to the case. GJC is a non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting the enforcement of international law in a progressive, non-discriminatory manner. - [The Day of International Criminal Justice: Prosecuting Gender-Based Persecution](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-day-of-international-criminal-justice-prosecuting-gender-based-persecution/) - By Maryna Tkachenko Today is the Day of International Criminal Justice, marking the 21st anniversary of the 1998 Rome Statute, the treaty that established the International Criminal Court (ICC). In terms of international justice, the ICC is the only permanent institution that aims to hold perpetrators of genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and crimes - [Beijing+25: Push Back Against the Pushback on Women’s Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/beijing-25-push-back-against-the-pushback-on-women-s-rights/) - By Maryna Tkachenko Next year, the international community will mark the 25th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women. Back in 1995, the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform of Action was celebrated as a promising commitment to gender equality, development, and peace. As Hillary Clinton declared that “human rights are women's rights - [Joint Letter to Obama Re: Abortion Restrictions on United States Foreign Aid](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/joint-letter-to-obama-re-abortion-restrictions-on-united-states-foreign-aid/) - We are writing to urge you to lift the abortion ban attached to United States (US) foreign aid, including aid for girls and women who are victims of conflict-related sexual violence. The US abortion ban is a major reason that female war rape victims around the world are being denied abortions in humanitarian medical facilities. - [Five Years After Genocide, Yazidis are Still Waiting for Justice](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/five-years-after-genocide-yazidis-are-still-waiting-for-justice/) - By Maryna Tkachenko “Today, the Yazidis have largely been abandoned” — Nadia Murad, Nobel Peace Prize recipient and Yazidi survivor August 3, 2014 changed the Yazidi community of Sinjar forever. The terrorist group Daesh killed and enslaved thousands of Yazidis, members of a small religious minority in northern Iraq that have been historically persecuted for - [The International Criminal Court Can Help End Impunity for Gender-Based Violence in its Investigation of the Rohingya](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-international-criminal-court-can-help-end-impunity-for-gender-based-violence-in-its-investigation-of-the-rohingya/) - Also published by Ms. Magazine By Katherine Comly Ask any feminist how they think their government is doing at holding perpetrators of sexual violence accountable and most would respond with an emphatic “poorly”— at best. Internationally, there are moves being made to tackle sexual violence, like awarding the Nobel Prize to Nadia Murad and passing - [Read Akila Radhakrishnan's Speech at UNGA74 Side Event on the Rohingya Crisis](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/read-akila-radhakrishnan-s-speech-at-unga74-side-event-on-the-rohingya-crisis/) - "A Pathway to a Sustainable Solution to the Rohingya Crisis" Permanent Mission of Bangladesh to the United Nations Text of Prepared Remarks Thank you Simon. And thank you Minister Momen, Minister Tambadou for your leadership. It’s an honor to participate in this event with you both. As Simon mentioned, I am the President of the - [United States: Submission to the United Nations Universal Periodic Review](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/united-states-submission-to-the-united-nations-universal-periodic-review-2/) - Summary During the United States’ (“US”) second-cycle Universal Periodic Review (“UPR”), multiple states made recommendations concerning US abortion restrictions on foreign assistance, including the Helms Amendment. The US has failed to take any action on these recommendations; in fact, in 2017 the Trump administration further entrenched and expanded the scope of these policies with the - [Iraq: Submission to the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW)](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/iraq-submission-to-the-united-nations-committee-on-the-elimination-of-discrimination-against-women-cedaw/) - I. Introduction 1. In advance of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women’s (Committee) forthcoming review of Iraq, it is critical that the Committee pay particular attention to the need for fundamental reform of Iraq’s criminal legal system in order to achieve justice for Daesh’s victims, and more broadly for the women and - [Reproducing Impunity: Gendering the Draft Convention on Crimes against Humanity](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/reproducing-impunity-gendering-the-draft-convention-on-crimes-against-humanity/) - The Draft Convention on Crimes against Humanity offers an opportunity to improve accountability for grave violations of international law; however in its current form, it continues to limit justice for sexual and gender-based violence. The International Law Commission (“ILC”) undertook the task of compiling a Draft Convention on Crimes against Humanity in 2014. In the - [Discrimination by Design: Key Points for the Universal Periodic Review of Iraq](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/discrimination-by-design-key-points-for-the-universal-periodic-review-of-iraq/) - In advance of the Human Rights Council’s forthcoming review of Iraq, it is critical that attention is paid to the need for fundamental reform of Iraq’s legal system in order to achieve justice for Daesh’s victims, and more broadly for the people of Iraq. As currently codified, Iraq’s criminal laws do not punish the most - [Urgency is Key for Rohingya Repatriation](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/urgency-is-key-for-rohingya-repatriation/) - By Nishan Kafle Although the Rohingya of Burma have been subject to unrelenting government persecution for decades, it took an unprecedented form in 2017 when an estimated 530,000 Rohingya were violently driven from their home in Rakhine State in a military campaign that UN experts have called a genocide. South Asia is no stranger to - [Faith-Based Organizations are Undermining Nepal’s Progressive Abortion Policy](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/faith-based-organizations-are-undermining-nepal-s-progressive-abortion-policy/) - By Nishan Kafle Nepal has one of the fastest-growing Christian populations in the world thanks to the multitudes of missionary organizations — both Nepali and international — operating in every nook and cranny of the country. While proselytizing isn’t problematic in and of itself, Christian missionaries in Nepal are also bringing their anti-LGBT and pro-life - [Letter to EU Commission on EU Humanitarian Aid](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-eu-commission-on-eu-humanitarian-aid/) - May 29, 2015: Joint letter to the EU Commission on how EU humanitarian aid fails female victims of war rape. Download PDF - [Statement of Solidarity with the World Health Organization](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/statement-of-solidarity-with-the-world-health-organization/) - Dear Dr. Tedros, As U.S.-based public health research, academic, and advocacy organizations, representing millions of people across the country, we write to express our solidarity with the World Health Organization (WHO) and your individual staff and teams around the world. We thank you for the WHO’s efforts to rapidly and effectively prevent the spread of - [GJC Writes Letter to Prosecutor Bensouda on The Imperative to Prosecute the Abduction of the Schoolgirls in Nigeria as Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/gjc-writes-letter-to-prosecutor-bensouda-onthe-imperative-to-prosecute-the-abduction-of-the-schoolgirls-in-nigeria-as-genocide/) - Dear Prosecutor Bensouda: As President of the Global Justice Center (GJC), I am writing you on a matter of global concern and singular importance: the duty of your office to prosecute Boko Haram’s gender-based abductions, forced marriages, and conversions of Christian schoolgirls as “the crime of crimes”—genocide. Today marks the one-year anniversary of Boko Haram’s - [Sign on Letter: Request to convene UNHRC special session on Police Violence](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/sign-on-letter-request-to-convene-unhrc-special-session-on-police-violence/) - Excellencies, The undersigned family members of victims of police killings and civil society organizations from around the world, call on member states of the U.N. Human Rights Council to urgently convene a Special Session on the situation of human rights in the United States in order to respond to the unfolding grave human rights crisis - [Joint Statement Opposing Trump Administration Measures against the International Criminal Court](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/statement-opposing-trump-administration-measures-against-the-international-criminal-court/) - The undersigned organizations express their deep concern regarding today’s announcement by Secretary of State Pompeo and other senior U.S. officials that the United States, among other things, has invoked emergency powers in order to threaten asset freezes and other punitive actions against officials of the International Criminal Court, their family members, and those who assist - [Letter to Human Rights Council: Urgent Debate on current racially inspired human rights violations, systematic racism, police brutality and the violence against peaceful protests](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-human-rights-council-urgent-debate-on-current-racially-inspired-human-rights-violations-systematic-racism-police-brutality-and-the-violence-against-peaceful-protests/) - Excellencies, I write to you on behalf of the Global Justice Center (“GJC”), an international human rights organization, with special ECOSOC consultative status, dedicated to advancing gender equality through the rule of law. We combine advocacy with legal analysis, working to ensure equal protection of the law for women and girls. Last week, GJC was - [Annex to Article 15 Communication to the ICC Office of the Prosecutor Regarding Boko Haram's Targeted Abduction of Women and Children as Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/annex-to-brief-subject-article-15-communication-to-the-icc-office-of-the-prosecutor-regarding-boko-haram-s-targeted-abduction-of-women-and-children-as-genocide/) - This annex to GJC's communication to the ICC Office of the Prosecutor is a sampling of detailed witness accounts compiled by Human Rights Watch documenting Boko Haram’s targeting of Christian women and girls, including abduction, forced marriage, conversion, abuse, the selection and separation of victims, based upon their membership as Christians, exclusion from genocidal acts - [Open Letter to the Secretary General: Annual Children in Armed Conflict Report](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/open-letter-to-the-secretary-general-annual-children-in-armed-conflict-report/) - Dear Mr. Secretary-General, As nongovernmental organizations working to alleviate humanitarian suffering and protect human rights, we strongly support United Nations Security Council Resolution 1612 (2005) and subsequent resolutions on children and armed conflict, as concrete tools for improving the protection of children in war. We are, therefore, deeply disappointed and troubled by your new report - [Myanmar - UPR Submission to the UN Human Rights Council](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/myanmar-upr-submission-to-the-un-human-rights-council/) - I. Introduction The Government of Myanmar (the “Government”) is obligated in its third cycle Universal Periodic Review (“UPR”) to provide detailed information on how it has implemented recommendations on human rights protections made during its second cycle UPR in 2015, as well on developments in human rights in Myanmar since 2015. With respect to progress - [Myanmar’s Proposed Prevention Of Violence Against Women Law - A Failure to Meet International Human Rights Standards](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/myanmar-s-proposed-prevention-of-violence-against-women-law-a-failure-to-meet-international-human-rights-standards/) - The introduction of the Prevention of Violence against Women Law (PoVAW) in Myanmar is an important opportunity for Myanmar to at long last ensure a comprehensive framework for addressing sexual and gender- based violence, bring its domestic laws in line with international obligations, and ensure adequate redress for violence to all women. This requires, however, that Myanmar - [Q&A: The International Criminal Court Investigation into the Situation in Bangladesh/Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/q-a-the-international-criminal-court-investigation-into-the-situation-in-bangladesh-myanmar/) - On 14 November 2019, the International Criminal Court (“ICC” or “the Court”) authorized the Court’s Prosecutor to investigate alleged international crimes occurring during a wave of violence in Rakhine State, Myanmar in 2016 and 2017. The investigation follows a brutal campaign of violence by Myanmar’s security forces against Myanmar’s Rohingya Muslims. These so-called “clearance operations” - [Article 15 Communication to the ICC Office of the Prosecutor Regarding Boko Haram's Targeted Abduction of Women and Children as Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/subject-article-15-communication-to-the-icc-office-of-the-prosecutor-regarding-boko-haram-s-targeted-abduction-of-women-and-children-as-genocide/) - GJC submits that, based on the information set out herein, there is a reasonable basis to believe that Boko Haram is perpetrating genocide against the Christian community in northeastern Nigeria, including by forcibly transferring or abducting children, with the intent to destroy the group, as such, at least, “in part.” Due to the absence of - [GJC Public Comment - Commission on Unalienable Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/gjc-public-comment-commission-on-unalienable-rights/) - Dear Members of the US State Department Commission on Unalienable Rights, This past May, the Global Justice Center sent a submission regarding our concerns with respect to the Commission, its work, and the potential harm that a final report produced by the Commission may have on the international human rights framework, specifically as it pertains - [Letter to US Congress: Reproductive Rights and Racial Justice](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-us-congress-reproductive-rights-and-racial-justice/) - Dear Speaker Pelosi, Leader McConnell, Leader Schumer, and Leader McCarthy, We, the 189 undersigned local, state, and national organizations, write to you in solidarity with Black women Reproductive Justice advocates leading the work to ensure Reproductive Justice for all, which includes the ability to make decisions about our lives, bodies, sexuality, and reproduction free from - [Non-Governmental Organizations, Faith-Based Groups, Legal Professionals, Experts, and Former Government Officials Unequivocally Oppose U.S. Sanctions Against the International Criminal Court](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/non-governmental-organizations-faith-based-groups-legal-professionals-experts-and-former-government-officials-unequivocally-oppose-u-s-sanctions-against-the-international-criminal-court/) - The undersigned organizations and individuals write to express grave concerns and unequivocally oppose the Trump administration’s use of the sanctions authority of the United States to attack the International Criminal Court (ICC), an independent judicial institution dedicated to combatting impunity for the gravest crimes known to humanity. Many of the undersigned spoke out against steps - [Joint Statement: UN Human Rights Council Update on Resolution on Racism, Police Brutality](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/joint-statement-un-human-rights-council-update-on-resolution-on-racism-police-brutality/) - We welcome the High Commissioner’s first update on the implementation of the Human Rights Council resolution (A/HRC/RES/43/1) which followed an Urgent Debate "on current racially inspired human rights violations, systemic racism, police brutality and violence against peaceful protests." The resolution has mandated the High Commissioner, with the assistance of relevant Special Mandate Holders, “to prepare a report - [Letter to The Honourable Fatou Bensouda, ICC Chief Prosecutor, "Re: The Imperative to Prosecute the Abduction of the Schoolgirls in Nigeria as Genocide"](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-the-honourable-fatou-bensouda-chief-prosecutor-re-the-imperative-to-prosecute-the-abduction-of-the-schoolgirls-in-nigeria-as-genocide/) - On April 14th, 2015, a year after the abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls, the Global Justice Center (GJC) is urging the Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Fatou Bensouda, to investigate whether Boko Haram, who recently pledged allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), is perpetrating genocide against the Christian - [HRC 45: Joint Civil Society Statement on Abortion](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/hrc-45-joint-civil-society-statement-on-abortion/) - In the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action, States recognized that women’s rights are human rights and that all human rights are universal, indivisible, interdependent and interrelated. This should have been the basis for an intersectional approach to human rights and the recognition that the denial of access to safe and legal abortion impacts all aspects - [Letter Opposing Nomination of Amy Coney Barrett](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-opposing-nomination-of-amy-coney-barrett/) - We 136 organizations in support of reproductive health, rights, and justice — strongly oppose the nomination of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court. The Senate should not consider any nominee to fill any Supreme Court vacancy until after the inauguration. Whoever fills Justice Ginsburg’s seat could spend decades being a crucial vote on - [Reproducing Patriarchy: How the Trump Administration has Undermined Women’s Access to Reproductive Health Care](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/reproducing-patriarchy-how-the-trump-administration-has-undermined-women-s-access-to-reproductive-health-care/) - Download the Full Report Introduction Since taking office, the Trump administration has unleashed a blitz of regressive and discriminatory laws and policies. Of the many issues under attack, few have seen similar ire and attention as sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). Both internationally and domestically, the Trump administration has engaged in a broad, - [Prioritizing the Women, Peace, and Security Agenda in the First Hundred Days](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/prioritizing-the-women-peace-and-security-agenda-in-the-first-hundred-days/) - Since the adoption of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 (2000) recognizing the vital role of women in peacebuilding, peacekeeping, and post-conflict recovery, the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Agenda has gained global recognition. In the two decades since, the United States (U.S.) has taken steps to elevate WPS in its foreign and national security policies. - [Infographic: What Rape In War Looks Like](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/infographic-what-rape-in-war-looks-like/) - Download PDF - [International Solidarity with Women and Peaceful Protestors in Poland](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/international-solidarity-with-women-and-peaceful-protestors-in-poland/) - As organizations committed to the advancement of human rights and gender equality, we stand in solidarity with all those in Poland who for the last week have peacefully protested against the politicized attack on women’s fundamental human rights and access to health care. Last week Poland’s Constitutional Tribunal issued a decision purporting to invalidate a - [Factsheet — Reproducing Patriarchy: How the Trump Administration has Undermined Women’s Access to Reproductive Health Care](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/factsheet-reproducing-patriarchy-how-the-trump-administration-has-undermined-women-s-access-to-reproductive-health-care/) - For an in-depth analysis of the new Title X regulations (Final Rule, Domestic Gag Rule, or Domestic Gag), the impact on clinics’ participation in Title X and patients’ access to healthcare, domestic litigation challenging the restrictions, and how the Domestic Gag Rule violates the United States’ international human rights legal obligations, see the Global Justice - [Stop the Execution of Lisa Montgomery](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/stop-the-execution-of-lisa-montgomery/) - Dear President Trump, As over 800 organizations, scholars, individuals, law clinics, and survivors who are dedicated to ending all forms of violence against women, we are painfully aware of the victimization histories of most incarcerated women. Studies consistently show that up to 95% of incarcerated women have been victims of physical or sexual abuse. Lisa - [GA75 | Civil society assess outcomes of Third Committee session](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/ga75-civil-society-assess-outcomes-of-third-committee-session/) - As we continue to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic worldwide, civil society discuss various outcomes at this session of the Third Committee, despite additional challenges associated with the session being held mostly online. We welcome the joint statement on reprisals led by the United Kingdom and joined by a cross-regional group of countries, calling on all States - [Letter to Biden Transition Team on Human Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-biden-transition-team-on-human-rights/) - Dear President-Elect Biden, As organizations committed to reproductive, gender, economic, immigrant, and racial justice, we know that this is a crucial moment for Black and Brown communities, women, LGBTQ folks, immigrants, and young people. Our communities are still trying to survive the COVID-19 pandemic and people continue to fight for racial justice all over the - [Women’s Community COVID Letter to the Biden – Harris Administration](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/women-s-community-covid-letter-to-the-biden-harris-administration/) - Dear President-Elect Biden and Vice President-Elect Harris, Thank you for taking an aggressive stance in your administration’s planned response to the public health and economic crisis we are facing as a nation. We also appreciate that the COVID response team will prioritize racial equity under the leadership of Dr. Marcella Nunez-Smith. We strongly believe that - [First 100 Days Agenda for Abortion Justice](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/first-100-days-agenda-for-abortion-justice/) - For the last four years, the Trump-Pence administration shamed, punished, and targeted people struggling financially, especially women of color, by pushing policies that deny them the ability to make their own decisions about their health and their lives with dignity and economic security. We’ve watched as a Supreme Court nominee was rushed through to tip the balance of our highest court, putting at risk our health care, our voting and worker’s rights, LGBTQ rights, abortion rights, and more. We are not just talking about the legal right to abortion--that is not and was never enough. We must reimagine abortion access beyond Roe. - [Silencing Progress: The Siljander Amendment and Global Censorship of Abortion Speech](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/silencing-progress-the-siljander-amendment-and-global-censorship-of-abortion-speech/) - For the last four years, the Trump administration has waged a war on sexual and reproductive health and rights around the world. Some of the tools in its arsenal are US foreign assistance restrictions on family planning and abortion. To be sure, many of these restrictions pre-date Trump, but this administration had a laser focus - [Joint NGO Letter call for a Special Session on the deteriorating human rights situation in Ethiopia](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/joint-ngo-letter-call-for-a-special-session-on-the-deteriorating-human-rights-situation-in-ethiopia/) - To Permanent Representatives of Member and Observer States of the United Nations Human Rights Council, Geneva, Switzerland Your Excellency, We, the undersigned human rights non-governmental organizations, strongly support the call for a UN Human Rights Council (HRC) special session on the deteriorating human rights situation in Ethiopia and urge your delegation to support such a session without - [Q&A: Preliminary Objections in The Gambia v. Myanmar at the International Court of Justice](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/q-a-preliminary-objections-in-the-gambia-v-myanmar-at-the-international-court-of-justice/) - On November 11, 2019 the Republic of The Gambia filed suit against the Republic of the Union of Myanmar in the International Court of Justice (“ICJ”) for violations of the Genocide Convention. This historic lawsuit brings a critical focus to Myanmar’s responsibility as a state for the Rohingya genocide. The Gambia’s case focuses on Myanmar’s - [Briefing #5: Humanitarian Aid Policies & the Geneva Conventions: Myths & Realities](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/briefing-5-humanitarian-aid-policies-the-geneva-conventions-myths-realities/) - The EU, together with Member States, provides the most humanitarian aid in the world and funds medical services in every conflict zone. However, the EU’s restrictive policy on abortion and the Geneva Conventions violates the inalienable rights of girls and women impregnated by war to all necessary medical care, including safe abortion services under international - [Joint Call for a Global Arms Embargo on Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/joint-call-for-a-global-arms-embargo-on-myanmar/) - An Open Letter to the UN Security Council and Individual UN Member States We, the undersigned organizations, call on the United Nations Security Council and UN member states to urgently institute a coordinated, global arms embargo on Myanmar in response to the February 1, 2021 military coup that has deprived the people of Myanmar of - [Community Letter to President and Vice President on Global Gender Equality](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/community-letter-to-president-and-vice-president-on-global-gender-equality/) - Dear Mr. President and Madam Vice President, We, the undersigned organizations, care deeply about advancing gender equity and equality around the world and are writing to express our appreciation for the steps your administration has taken in your first 50 days to signal the United States’ renewed leadership on this issue. In particular, we are - [Briefing #4: What Rape in War Looks Like](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/briefing-4-what-rape-in-war-looks-like/) - Gender-based and sexual violence have increasingly become tactics of warfare and are a defining characteristic of contemporary armed conflict. The EU is a global leader in the provision of humanitarian aid, but the EU’s current approach to victims of sexual violence in conflict fails to provide them the full legal protection guaranteed to them under - [Briefing #3: Legal Summary: EU Humanitarian Aid and International Obligations](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/briefing-3-legal-summary-eu-humanitarian-aid-and-international-obligations/) - Together, Member States and the European Commission are the world’s leading providers of humanitarian aid, for both conflict and non-conflict emergencies, with over €1.35 billion contributed in 2013. Although the EU makes a positive difference for millions on the ground, the EU’s restrictive policy on abortion and the Geneva Conventions violates the inalienable rights of - [UN Security Council: Hold Myanmar Military Accountable for Violence Against Women](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/un-security-council-hold-myanmar-military-accountable-for-violence-against-women/) - Hold Myanmar Military Accountable for Violence Against Women Dear President and Members of the United Nations (UN) Security Council, Marking the 65th session of the Commission on the Status of Women, we, Women’s Peace Network, and the undersigned organizations working for women’s rights and against gender-based violence, call upon the UN Security Council to hold - [Joint Statement Opposing State Legislation Targeting Transgender Youth](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/joint-statement-opposing-state-legislation-targeting-transgender-youth/) - We, the undersigned, represent a broad coalition of legal and policy experts, women’s advocates, educational associations, civil rights groups, and proponents of equality for all Americans. We strongly oppose proposed legislation that targets transgender youth for mistreatment and discrimination by seeking to ban them from participating in sports or from being able to access best - [Briefing #2: War Rape: A Comparison of the European Commission’s Policy with International Humanitarian Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/briefing-2-war-rape-a-comparison-of-the-european-commission-s-policy-with-international-humanitarian-law/) - Together, Member States and the European Commission are the world’s leading providers of humanitarian aid. The EU promotes a vision of humanitarian relief based on advancing compliance with international law. The Commission’s sui generis policy on abortion and the Geneva Conventions flouts this vision by violating the inalienable rights of women and girls raped in - [The Right to Vote Is a Reproductive Health, Rights, & Justice Issue](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-right-to-vote-is-a-reproductive-health-rights-justice-issue/) - Dear State Legislator: We, the undersigned organizations, state legislators, and leaders in the reproductive health, rights, and justice movement, join together to call out the racist and anti-democratic attacks on voting rights and access happening in state legislatures across the United States. Conservative state legislators have ramped up their efforts to make it harder to - [Briefing #1: War Rape: The European Commission Violates EU Law & The Geneva Conventions](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/briefing-1-war-rape-the-european-commission-violates-eu-law-the-geneva-conventions/) - Together, Member States and the European Commission are the world’s leading providers of humanitarian aid, for both conflict and non-conflict emergencies, with over €1.35 billion contributed in 2013. Although the EU makes a positive difference for millions on the ground, the EU’s restrictive policy on abortion and the Geneva Conventions violates the inalienable rights of - [Open Letter to Secretary of State Blinken on the Public Health and Human Rights Crisis in Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/open-letter-to-secretary-of-state-blinken-on-the-public-health-and-human-rights-crisis-in-myanmar/) - To: Antony Blinken, Secretary of State CC: Jake Sullivan, National Security Advisor; Linda Thomas-Greenfield, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations; Jeff Zients, White House Coronavirus Response Coordinator; Samantha Power, USAID Administrator Nominee Secretary Blinken: We write as concerned human rights organizations, humanitarian organizations, medical professional associations, labor organizations, and refugee rights organizations to urge you - [Letter to President Biden: Call for Executive Action on United States Abortion Restrictions on Foreign Aid](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-president-biden-call-for-executive-action-on-united-states-abortion-restrictions-on-foreign-aid/) - Dear President Biden, We, the undersigned organizations, welcome your administration’s reengagement of the United States (US) with the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) and recommitment to promoting human rights. We also applaud you for revoking the Global Gag Rule (also known as the Mexico City Policy) within your first ten days in office, and now - [Global Civil Society Statement: The UN Must Block Arms Sales to Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/global-civil-society-statement-the-un-must-block-arms-sales-to-myanmar/) - We, the undersigned organizations, call on the United Nations Security Council to urgently impose a comprehensive global arms embargo on Myanmar to help prevent further violations of human rights against peaceful protesters and others opposing military rule. In recent weeks, Myanmar security forces have killed hundreds of people, including dozens of children, merely for exercising - [Coalition Letter to UN African Group on Ensuring Effective Accountability for Police Violence in US](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/coalition-letter-to-un-african-group-on-ensuring-effective-accountability-for-police-violence-in-us/) - To: Ministers of Foreign Affairs of African States CC: Permanent Representatives of African States in Geneva Re: The UN Human Rights Council’s role to ensure effective accountability and follow-up to HRC Resolution 43/1 Dear Excellencies, The families of victims of police violence and undersigned civil society organizations write with regard to the follow up to - [Letter to UN Secretary General on Annual Report on Children and Armed Conflict](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-un-secretary-general-on-annual-report-on-children-and-armed-conflict/) - Dear Mr. Secretary-General, We are writing with regard to your forthcoming annual report on children and armed conflict. As you finalize your decisions regarding the annexes, we urge you to ensure the publication of a complete list of perpetrators of grave violations that is evidence-based and accurately reflects data collected and verified by the United - [Generation Equality Letter to President Biden](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/generation-equality-letter-to-president-biden/) - The Generation Equality Forum, a partnership between UN Women, the governments of Mexico and France, feminist and youth movements and advocates from every sector of society, are intended to take place outside of the formal intergovernmental process in order to allow bold thinking and ambition - they are a space only for champions of gender equality. As such, they provide an opportunity for the United States to demonstrate its renewed commitment to human rights and make commitments towards the goals of the six Generation Equality Action Coalitions: gender-based violence, economic justice and rights, bodily autonomy and sexual and reproductive health and rights, feminist action for climate justice, technology and innovation for gender equality, and feminist movements and leadership. - [Joint NGO Call for a UN Human Rights Council resolution on the ongoing human rights crisis in Tigray, Ethiopia](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/joint-ngo-call-for-a-un-human-rights-council-resolution-on-the-ongoing-human-rights-crisis-in-tigray-ethiopia/) - To Permanent Representatives of Member and Observer States of the United Nations Human Rights Council (Geneva, Switzerland) Your Excellency, We, the undersigned human rights non-governmental organizations, strongly urge the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) to adopt a resolution at its upcoming 47th session (HRC47) on the ongoing human rights crisis in Tigray, Ethiopia. Over the - [Submission UN Special Rapporteur on Abortion Restrictions During COVID-19](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/submission-un-special-rapporteur-on-abortion-restrictions-during-covid-19/) - The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges to access to sexual and reproductive health services. As states enacted their COVID-19 response plans in the early phase of the pandemic, GJC noted an uptick in focus on abortion in the United States and around the globe - resulting in a mix of outcomes, both positive and negative. The unevenness with which abortion was dealt with underscores the importance that access to safe abortion services be protected as a matter of human right, recognized by officials as essential medical care, and not subject to restrictions. - [Open Civil Society Letter To ICC Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/open-civil-society-letter-to-icc-prosecutor-fatou-bensouda/) - Dear Madam Prosecutor, As your term as prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) draws to a close, we are writing to thank you for your longstanding service and significant contributions to the ICC, as well as to acknowledge the progress that the Office of the Prosecutor has made during your tenure. While civil society - [Policy Brief: The United States and the Generation Equality Forum](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/policy-brief-the-united-states-and-the-generation-equality-forum/) - Dear Madam Prosecutor, After years of debate as to whether or not to host a Fifth World Conference on Women, UN Women and leading progressive nations wishing to mark the 25th anniversary of the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action at the Fourth World Conference on Women have created a champions-only space - [Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization - Amicus Brief](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/dobbs-v-jackson-women-s-health-organization-amicus-brief/) - SUMMARY OF ARGUMENT Near-categorical bans on abortions will have a significant, real, and negative impact on the health of pregnant individuals. The worst such impacts will be borne by marginalized groups, including people living in economic poverty and by Black, Indigenous, and people of color. These are the very groups whose health the law should - [Intent to File on Forced Pregnancy - The Prosecutor v. Dominic Ongwen](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/intent-to-file-on-forced-pregnancy-the-prosecutor-v-dominic-ongwen/) - Introduction In response to the Appeals Chamber’s order, we respectfully seek leave to file amicus curiae observations on the Rome Statute’s definition of ‘forced pregnancy’, noting that this is the Appeals Chamber’s first opportunity to interpret this crime. Expertise Dr Rosemary Grey (lecturer, Sydney University Law School) is an expert in gender issues in international criminal - [Amicus Brief - The Prosecutor v. Dominic Ongwen](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/amicus-brief-the-prosecutor-v-dominic-ongwen/) - Introduction Having been granted leave to submit amicus curiae observations, we respectfully offer these observations about the Rome Statute’s definition of ‘forced pregnancy’. This is the first occasion that the Appeals Chamber will provide its interpretation of this crime, which was expressly listed in an international instrument for the first time in the Rome Statute. The - [An Affirmation of Feminist Principles](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/an-affirmation-of-feminist-principles/) - We the undersigned organizations and individuals from across the world come together in this letter to emphasize our shared belief that to achieve justice, equality and liberation, we must combat and dismantle the patriarchal systems of power which continue to oppress and exclude many of us. We affirm some key feminist principles and their alignment - [2021 Open Letter to Permanent Representatives to the United Nations in advance of the annual Open Debate on Women, Peace and Security](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/2021-open-letter-to-permanent-representatives-to-the-united-nations-in-advance-of-the-annual-open-debate-on-women-peace-and-security/) - The Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda is, at its heart, an agenda led by civil society, who, in partnership with Member States and the UN, lobbied for the adoption of Resolution 1325 (2000). At this year’s Open Debate on Women, Peace and Security, we ask you to stand with the women human rights defenders - [Open Letter in Support of Continuing Recognition of Ambassador U Kyaw Moe Tun as Myanmar’s Permanent Representative at the UN General Assembly](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/open-letter-in-support-of-continuing-recognition-of-ambassador-u-kyaw-moe-tun-as-myanmar-s-permanent-representative-at-the-un-general-assembly/) - Excellencies, We, the undersigned, representing a broad movement of 358 Myanmar and international civil society organizations, urge you to ensure that the current Permanent Representative (PR) of Myanmar to the United Nations (UN), Ambassador U Kyaw Moe Tun, retains his position as Myanmar’s representative to the UN for the upcoming 76th session of the UN - [57 Civil and Human Rights Organizations Urge Biden Administration and Congress to Keep a Pathway to Citizenship for Immigrants in Budget Reconciliation Bill](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/57-civil-and-human-rights-organizations-urge-biden-administration-and-congress-to-keep-a-pathway-to-citizenship-for-immigrants-in-budget-reconciliation-bill/) - We, the undersigned 57 civil and human rights organizations, write to urge you to prioritize keeping a pathway to citizenship for immigrants in the budget reconciliation bill. Deeply rooted immigrants—including those who came to the United States as children and may have Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), those who have fled violence and other crises and currently have Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or Deferred Enforced Departure (DED), and those who have kept the US economy going during the pandemic by serving as essential workers—deserve lasting protection from deportation and the ability to live freely with their families and in their communities, protecting fundamental rights, and powering US businesses and the national economy. - [Open Letter to Members of the U.S. Congress to Pass the Burma Unified through Rigorous Military Accountability Act of 2021](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/open-letter-to-members-of-the-u-s-congress-to-pass-the-burma-unified-through-rigorous-military-accountability-act-of-2021/) - Dear Members of Congress, We, the undersigned 242 Burmese diaspora, local CSOs inside Burma, community-based organizations, and civil society organizations both here in the U.S. and around the world welcome the introduction of the Burma Unified through Rigorous Military Accountability Act of 2021, or, the BURMA Act, and call on all members of the U.S. - [Open Letter on Abortion Stigma](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/open-letter-on-abortion-stigma/) - An Open Letter to Public Officials and Policy Makers: As organizations advocating for reproductive health, rights, and justice, we urgently call on public officials and policy makers to use the word abortion. Abortion stigma—defined as associating a “negative attribute” towards people who provide, have had, or are seeking abortions—has facilitated the passage of radical laws - [GJC President, Janet Benshoof, On Human Rights Day](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/human-rights-day/) - Check out a new video released by the Global Justice Center of Janet Benshoof, Founder and President of GJC, talking on Human Rights Day about the importance of President Obama issuing an Executive Order overturning the Helms Amendment which places abortion restrictions on all U.S. foreign aid which and directly impacts women and girls raped - [Global Policy, "The Other Red Line: The Use of Rape as an Unlawful Tactic of Warfare"](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-other-red-line-the-use-of-rape-as-an-unlawful-tactic-of-warfare/) - The Security Council has found that the endemic use of rape in war for military advantage – which is primarily targeted against women and girls – is a military tactic that presents a threat to global peace and security. Despite concerted global efforts over the last two decades to end its use, rape as a - [Reply to Ms. Janet Benshoof from EU Commissioner Kristalina Georgieva](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/reply-to-ms-janet-benshoof-from-commissioner-kristalina-georgieva/) - Download PDF - [GJC & OMCT Shadow Report to the Committee Against Torture](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/gjc-omct-shadow-report-to-the-committee-against-torture/) - This submission sets out concerns over a United States policy that results in the systematic denial of safe abortion services to girls and women raped in war in contradiction with the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. The policy in question is a set of abortion restrictions that the - [World Humanitarian Summit Submission from the Global Justice Center: Serving the Needs of People in Conflict by Guaranteeing the Rights Specific to Conflict](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/submission-from-the-global-justice-center-serving-the-needs-of-people-in-conflict-by-guaranteeing-the-rights-specific-to-conflict/) - As the World Humanitarian Summit’s (WHS) scoping paper on Serving the Needs of People in Conflict (“Scoping Paper”) identifies, “because humanitarian needs in conflicts are specific, we need specific and relevant ways to respond to them.” In modern conflicts, the increasing targeting of civilians, including the strategic use of sexual violence as a tactic of - [Open Letter to EU Commissioner Georgieva](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/open-letter-to-commissioner-georgieva/) - GJC writes open letter to Commissioner Georgieva of the European Commission in response to her September 8, 2014 letter explaining the European Union's position on abortion and the Geneva Conventions. Download PDF - [The European Union's Duty Under International Humanitarian Law to Ensure Non-Discriminatory Medical Care to Women and Girls Raped in Armed Conflict, Including Access to Safe Abortion Services](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-european-union-s-duty-under-international-humanitarian-law-to-ensure-non-discriminatory-medical-care-to-women-and-girls-raped-in-armed-conflict-including-access-to-safe-abortion-services/) - Excerpts of EU, International, and National Laws, Policies & Practices Relevant to this Duty Download PDF - [Submission to the Universal Periodic Review of the United States (2014)](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/submission-to-the-universal-periodic-review-of-the-united-states-2014/) - This submission sets out concerns over a United States (“US”) policy that results in the systematic denial of safe abortion services to girls and women raped in war in violation of their rights under international humanitarian law. The policy in question is a set of abortion restrictions that the US places on all of its - [Letter to President Obama, "Re: Ending the Deadly Denial of Abortion Services to Girls and Women Raped in War"](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-president-obama-re-ending-the-deadly-denial-of-abortion-services-to-girls-and-women-raped-in-war/) - On the 65th Anniversary of the Geneva Conventions, GJC writes to President Obama asking him to issue an Executive Order which restores, at a minimum, the rape, incest and life endangerment exceptions to the Helms Amendment and affirms the rights of girls and women raped in war to all necessary medical care under the Geneva - [The August 12th Campaign - Timeline](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-august-12th-campaign-timeline/) - The August 12th Campaign, named after the anniversary of the Geneva Conventions, seeks to end the discriminatory denial of abortions for girls and women raped in armed conflict in violation of their rights as war victims to comprehensive medical care under the Geneva Conventions. Download PDF - [A Call for European Union Member States to Ensure Access to Safe Abortion Services for Female Rape Survivors in Armed Conflict](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/a-call-for-european-union-member-states-to-ensure-access-to-safe-abortion-services-for-female-rape-survivors-in-armed-conflict/) - This Call to Action urges European Union Member States (Member States) to change the European Union’s (EU) humanitarian aid policies. As they stand now, the EU’s policies prevent the provision of comprehensive and non-discriminatory medical care to girls and women impregnated by rape in armed conflict by routinely denying access to safe abortion services. These - [Executive Summary: The International Legal Framework of Peace Negotiations: Requirements and Recommendations for Enforcing Women’s Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/executive-summary-the-international-legal-framework-of-peace-negotiations-requirements-and-recommendations-for-enforcing-women-s-rights/) - Peace negotiations regularly exclude women participants and neglect to sufficiently address issues pertaining to women and girls. These omissions violate international law, including the Security Council Resolutions on women, peace, and security, which require that peace negotiations involve equal participation by women and ensure women’s rights. Getting women to the table is a critical first - [Frequently Asked Questions: Rape as an Illegal Tactic of War](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/rape-as-an-illegal-tactic-of-war-research-overview-and-frequently-asked-questions/) - Today, conflicts around the globe are characterized by the use of rape as a tactic of warfare for military advantage (“strategic rape”). The features, modalities, and impact of war rape, including strategic rape, make it a phenomenon distinct from rape and sexual violence outside of conflict. The direct and indirect deaths of girls and women - [Q&A: How President Obama Can - and Must - Save the Lives of Girls & Women Raped in War by Lifting the Abortion Ban Attached to US Humanitarian Aid](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/q-a-how-president-obama-can-and-must-save-the-lives-of-girls-women-raped-in-war-by-lifting-the-abortion-ban-attached-to-us-humanitarian-aid/) - Congress permits the use of foreign aid for abortions for rape, incest, or to save the life of a woman or girl, but the Obama administration has kept in place a Bush-era administrative order that eliminates those exceptions. Since the US is the largest humanitarian aid donor worldwide, the US abortion ban has become the - [Fact Sheet: Stopping The Use Of Rape As A Tactic Of War: A New Approach](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/fact-sheet-stopping-the-use-of-rape-as-a-tactic-of-war-a-new-approach/) - There is a global consensus that the mass rape of girls and women is routinely used as a tactic or “weapon” of war in contemporary armed conflicts. Despite two decades of intense global efforts, rape used as a tactic of war continues undeterred. This is not surprising: rape is a cheap, powerful, and effective tool - [GJC Leads Joint Call for UN Security Council Action on Abducted Nigerian Schoolgirls](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/gjc-leads-joint-call-for-un-security-council-action-on-abducted-nigerian-schoolgirls/) - The GJC issued an open letter to the President of the United Nations Security Council today that calls for action on the abduction of schoolgirls in Nigeria by Boko Haram militants in Nigeria. Download PDF - [Letter to EU Commissioner Kristalina Georgieva: Re: The Commission’s Policy on Abortions for Women and Girls Impregnated by Rape in Armed Conflict](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-commissioner-kristalina-georgieva-re-the-commission-s-policy-on-abortions-for-women-and-girls-impregnated-by-rape-in-armed-conflict/) - GJC writes a letter to Kristalina Georgieva, European Commissioner for International Cooperation, Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Response, to urge the European Commission to change its humanitarian aid policy in order to uphold the rights of women and girls raped and impregnated in armed conflict under the Geneva Conventions. Download PDF - [Norwegian Bar Association urges POTUS to lift abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid for female rape victims](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/norwegian-bar-association-urges-potus-to-lift-abortion-restrictions-on-humanitarian-aid-for-female-rape-victims/) - The Norwegian Bar Association, representing over 90% of all Norwegian lawyers, including academic and government in a letter urged President Obama to issue an Executive Order ensuring that the US Helms Amendment is in compliance with the rights of women raped in war, both civilians and servicewomen, to non-discriminatory medical care, including abortions, under the - [Open Letter to Special Rapporteur Tomás Ojea Quintana: The Incompatibility of Myanmar’s Constitution with the UN Charter Must Be Addressed](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/open-letter-to-special-rapporteur-tomas-quintana-the-incompatibility-of-myanmar-s-constitution-with-the-un-charter-must-be-addressed/) - Download PDF - [Letter from European Commission Directorate-General of Humanitarian Aid and Civil Protection](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-from-european-commission-directorate-general-of-humanitarian-aid-and-civil-protection/) - Reply of the European Commission Directorate-General of Humanitarian Aid and Civil Protection (ECHO) to the Global Justice Center’s August 14, 2012 letter entitled, “EU humanitarian aid for women raped in armed conflict must respect their rights to non-discriminatory medical care under International Humanitarian Law." Download PDF - [The United Kingdom’s Duty under International Humanitarian Law to Ensure Non-Discriminatory Medical Care to Women and Girls Raped in Armed Conflict, including Access to Safe Abortion Services](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-united-kingdom-s-duty-under-international-humanitarian-law-to-ensure-non-discriminatory-medical-care-to-women-and-girls-raped-in-armed-conflict-including-access-to-safe-abortion-services/) - Excerpts of UK, EU and International Laws, Policies & Practices Relevant to this Duty Updated as of October 8, 2013 The duty of the United Kingdom ("UK") to respect international law, and in particular international humanitarian law, is firmly rooted in its body of domestic law which implements the Geneva Conventions and its Additional Protocols, - [A Call for Sweden to Protect the Right to Abortion for Girls and Women Surviving Rape in Armed Conflict](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/a-call-for-sweden-to-protect-the-right-to-abortion-for-girls-and-women-surviving-rape-in-armed-conflict/) - Sweden has the political will necessary to lead donor states in complying with Resolution 2106. The first step must be for Sweden to ensure that its humanitarian aid for female victims of rape in armed conflict complies with the non-discrimination mandates of the Geneva Conventions, and includes the option of abortion. Currently over 95% of - [Chilean Minister of Health Replies to Letter from GJC](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/chilean-health-minister-reply-original/) - Chilean Health Minister Dr. Jaime Menalich Muxi responds to a letter from the GJC requesting that he allow an 11-year-old rape victim to have a life-saving abortion. This letter states that though the pregnancy is risky, he cannot grant her an abortion because it is against the law. This is the original, untranslated copy of - [Chilean Minister of Health Replies to Letter from GJC (English Translation)](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/chilean-health-minister-reply/) - JULY, 2013: Chilean Health Minister Dr. Jaime Menalich Muxi responds to a letter from the GJC requesting that he allow an 11-year-old rape victim to have a life-saving abortion. This letter states that though the pregnancy is risky, he cannot grant her an abortion because it is against the law. This is a translated version - [Letter to Jaime Mañalich Muxi, Re: Denial of Life-Saving Abortion to Pregnant Chilean Girl Violates International Human Rights Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-jaime-manalich-muxi-july-2013-re-denial-of-life-saving-abortion-to-pregnant-chilean-girl-violates-international-human-rights-law/) - GJC writes a letter to Chilean Minister of Health, Jaime Manalich Muxi, asking him to allow doctors to perform a life saving abortion on an 11-year old girl who was impregnated after being raped repeatedly by her mother's boyfriend. Excerpt: On behalf of the Global Justice Center, I am writing to urge you to immediately - [European Parliament Pushes to Separate Aid to War Rape Victims from US Restrictions](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/european-parliament-pushes-to-separate-aid-to-war-rape-victims-from-us-restrictions/) - European Parliament adopts second resolution urging humanitarian aid to be independent from US restrictions and ensure sexual violence survivors’ access to safe abortion. The European Parliament adopted a resolution on June 13, 2013, on the post-2015 UN Millennium Development Goals in which it specifically urged that the provision of EU humanitarian aid that contributes to - [Medical Women's International Association's Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/medical-women-s-international-association-s-letter-to-president-obama/) - MARCH 26, 2013: Medical Women's International Association writes letter to President Obama requesting him to issue an Executive Order lifting the US abortion restrictions on USAID. Excerpt: "Members of MWIA recently returned from participating in the Commission on the Status of Women at the United Nations. The theme for 2013 was the Elimination and Prevention - [Working Group on Reproductive Health, HIV/AIDS and Development in the European Parliament Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/working-group-on-reproductive-health-hiv-aids-and-development-in-the-european-parliament-letter-to-president-obama/) - March 6, 2013 Letter sent to President Obama by the Working Group on Reproductive Health, HIV/AIDS and Development in the European Parliament as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. Download PDF - [Santa Barbara Women Lawyers' Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/santa-barbara-women-lawyers-letter-to-president-obama/) - March 11, 2013 Letter sent to President Obama by the Santa Barbara Women Lawyers as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. Excerpt: Rape and forced pregnancy are frequently part of violent attacks intended to torture or even kill girls - [Egyptian Center for Women's Rights Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/egyptian-center-for-women-s-rights-letter-to-president-obama/) - Letter sent to President Obama by the Egyptian Center for Women's Rights as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. Download PDF - [UK Parliamentarians' Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/uk-parliamentarians-letter-to-president-obama/) - Letter sent to President Obama by a group of UK Parliamentarians' as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. The letter was signed by: Tom Brake, MP; Baroness Tonge; Lord Ashdown; Ann Coffey, MP; Baroness Ludford, MEP; Jane Ellison, MP; - [Paris Bar Association Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/paris-bar-association-letter-to-president-obama/) - Letter sent to President Obama by the Paris Bar Association as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. Download PDF - [Synergie Des Femmes Pour Les Victimes Des Violence Sexuelles' (DRC) Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/synergie-des-femmes-pour-les-victimes-des-violence-sexuelles-drc-letter-to-president-obama/) - August 8, 2012 Letter sent to President Obama by Synergie Des Femmes Pour Les Victimes Des Violence Sexuelles' (DRC) as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. Download PDF - [Solidarity for African Women's Rights Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/solidarity-for-african-women-s-rights-letter-to-president-obama/) - August 10, 2011 Letter sent to President Obama by Solidarity for African Women's Rights as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. Download PDF - [UK Queen's Counsel Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/uk-queen-s-counsel-letter-to-president-obama/) - February 1, 2012 Letter sent to President Obama by a group of UK Queen's Counsel as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. Download PDF - [Network for Africa Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/network-for-africa-letter-to-president-obama/) - June 13, 2012 Letter sent to President Obama by Network for Africa as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. Download PDF - [New York City Bar Association Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/new-york-city-bar-association-letter-to-president-obama/) - March 4, 2011 Letter sent to President Obama by the Association of the Bar of the City of New York as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid and that he accept Norway's Universal Periodic Review recommendation on abortion for - [National Alliance of Women's Organizations Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/national-organization-of-women-s-organizations-letter-to-president-obama/) - Letter sent to President Obama by the the National Alliance of Women's Organizations as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. Download PDF - [Medica Mondiale Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/medica-mondiale-letter-to-president-obama/) - Letter sent to President Obama by Medica Mondiale as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. Download PDF - [German Women Lawyers' Association Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/german-women-lawyers-association-letter-to-president-obama/) - Letter sent to President Obama by the German Women Lawyers' Association as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. Download PDF - [Federation Internationale des Ligues des Droits de l'Homme's (FIDH) Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/federation-internationale-des-ligues-des-droits-de-l-homme-s-fidh-letter-to-president-obama/) - Letter sent to President Obama by the Federation Internationale des Ligues des Droits de l'Homme (FIDH) as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. Download PDF - [European Women's Lobby Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/european-women-s-lobby-letter-to-president-obama/) - Letter sent to President Obama by the European Women's Lobby as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. Download PDF - [European Women Lawyers' Association Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/european-women-lawyers-association/) - August 12, 2011 Letter sent to President Obama by the European Women Lawyers' Association as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. Download PDF - [Equality Now's Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/equality-now-s-letter-to-president-obama/) - Letter sent to President Obama by Equality Now as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. Download PDF - [Amnesty International USA's Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/amnesty-international-usa-s-letter-to-president-obama/) - Letter sent to President Obama by Amnesty International USA as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. Download PDF - [Amanitare's Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/amanitare-s-letter-to-president-obama/) - Letter sent to President Obama by Amanitare as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. Download PDF - [Action Aid USA's Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/action-aid-usa-s-letter-to-president-obama/) - Letter sent to President Obama by Action Aid USA as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. Download PDF - [Joint Letter from Public Health and Law Academics and Professionals Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/joint-letter-from-public-health-and-law-academics-and-professionals-letter-to-president-obama/) - Letter sent to President Obama by a group of public health and law academics and professionals as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. Download PDF - [Women's Link Worldwide Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/women-s-link-worldwide-letter-to-president-obama/) - Letter sent to President Obama by Women's Link Worldwide as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. The letter was also signed by: Asociacion y lideres en Accion, Colombia; Catolicas por el derecho a decidir, Colombia; Rincon Perfetti Abogados y - [Reproductive Rights Organizations Group Letter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/reproductive-rights-organizations-group-letter/) - Letter sent to President Obama by a group of Reproductive Rights organizations as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. The letter was signed by: American Medical Women's Association; Center for Reproductive Rights; International Planned Parenthood Federation; Ipas; Pennsylvania Coalition - [Global Justice Center's Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/global-justice-center-s-letter-to-president-obama/) - August 12, 2011 Letter sent to President Obama by the Global Justice Center as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. The letter was also signed by: Alliance for Justice; American Jewish World Service; Association for Women's Rights in Development; - [Nine Bedford Row (UK) Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/nine-bedford-row-uk-letter-to-president-obama/) - Letter sent to President Obama by Nine Bedford Row as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. Download PDF - [Letter to Secretary Hillary Clinton, April 2012, Re: US Security Council Presidency and Next Steps on Myanmar/Burma](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-secretary-hillary-clinton-april-2012-re-us-security-council-presidency-and-next-steps-on-myanmar-burma/) - Global Justice Center writes Letter to Secretary Hillary Clinton on the US Security Council Presidency and Next Steps on Myanmar/Burma Download PDF - [Letter to Norwegian Foreign Minister re Myanmar Constitution](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-norwegian-foreign-minister-september-2012-support-for-a-general-assembly-request-to-the-international-court-of-justice-for-an-advisory-opinion-on-burma-s-constitution/) - Letter from the Global Justice Center to Norway's Foreign Minister Eide asking for Support for a General Assembly Request to the International Court of Justice for an Advisory Opinion on Burma's Constitution. Download PDF - [Letter to Secretary Hillary Clinton](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-secretary-hillary-clinton-september-2012-support-for-a-general-assembly-request-to-the-international-court-of-justice-for-an-advisory-opinion-on-burma-s-constitution/) - Letter from the Global Justice Center to Secretary Hillary Clinton, asking for Support for a General Assembly Request to the International Court of Justice for an Advisory Opinion on Burma's Constitution. Download PDF - [How Myanmar's Constitution Blocks the Government from Establishing Democracy and the Rule of Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/how-burma-s-constitution-blocks-the-burmese-government-from-establishing-democracy-and-the-rule-of-law/) - Download PDF - [Legal Update: US Position on Imposing Abortion Restrictions on Victims of War Rape is Weakening](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/legal-update-us-position-on-imposing-abortion-restrictions-on-victims-of-war-rape-is-weakening/) - Download PDF - [A Call for Leadership by the United Kingdom to Secure the Inalienable Rights of Girls and Women Raped & Impregnated in Armed Conflict to Non-discriminatory Medical Care including Abortion](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/a-call-for-leadership-by-the-united-kingdom-to-secure-the-inalienable-rights-of-girls-and-women-raped-impregnated-in-armed-conflict-to-non-discriminatory-medical-care-including-abortion/) - Download PDF - [Suggested List of Issues to Country Report Task Force on the United States of America](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/suggested-list-of-issues-to-country-report-task-force-on-the-united-states-of-america/) - Download PDF - [The Gender Gap and Women's Political Power in Myanmar/Burma](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-gender-gap-and-women-s-political-power-in-myanmar-burma/) - The rights of women under international law, including the right to occupy positions of political power, have advanced more in the last 20 years than ever before. True political participation requires a significant number of women in all areas of governance: ceasefire and peace treaty negotiations, constitution drafting committees, political parties, executive branch appointments, and - [UN Security Council Resolutions on Women, Peace and Security: A Chart Detailing State Mandates to End Crimes of Sexual Violence in Armed Conflict, Ensure Accountability and Promote Gender Parity in Conflict and Post-Conflict Situations](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/un-security-council-resolutions-on-women-peace-and-security-a-chart-detailing-state-mandates-to-end-crimes-of-sexual-violence-in-armed-conflict-ensure-accountability-and-promote-gender-parity-in-confl/) - The following chart details the legally-binding mandates of the UN Security Council Resolutions on Women, Peace and Security 1325 (2000), 1820 (2008), 1888 (2009), 1889 (2009), and 1960 (2010) – emphasizing the need for greater protection of women's rights and the inclusion of women in global governance and peace processes. The chart delineates the duties - [Global Advancement in Women's Rights Under International Law: How the 2008 Constitution of Myanmar Violates International Laws Guaranteeing Women's Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/global-advancement-in-women-s-rights-under-international-law/) - The rights of women under international law, including the right to occupy―not just run for―positions of political power, have radically advanced over the last 20 years. Under international law, a democracy based on true political participation requires that women, including ethnic minorities, occupy positions of power. In Burma, the allocation of positions of power should - [Compendium: The Obligation of the United Kingdom to Protect the Inalienable Rights of Girls and Women Raped in Armed Conflict to Non-Discriminatory Medical Care Including Access to Abortion: Excerpts of Relevant UK Laws, Policies, & Practices](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/compendium-the-obligation-of-the-united-kingdom-to-protect-the-inalienable-rights-of-girls-and-women-raped-in-armed-conflict-to-non-discriminatory-medical-care-including-access-to-abortion-excerpts-of/) - The duty of the United Kingdom (UK) to respect international law, and in particular international humanitarian law, is firmly rooted in its body of domestic law which implements the Geneva Conventions and its Additional Protocols, and is further supplemented by the laws, regulations, and guidelines of the European Union. For women raped in armed conflict, - [Myanmar/Burma’s Binding Obligations Under International Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/myanmar-burma-s-binding-obligations-under-international-law/) - November, 2012 This document outlines some of Myanmar/Burma’s (hereinafter “Burma”) obligations under international law, and demonstrates the ramifications of these obligations. Burma’s obligations under international law have greatly increased due to the advances in international law and the enforcement of states obligations over the last fifteen years. International law mandates that states either act or - [Open Letter to European Commissioner Kristalina Georgieva](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/open-letter-to-european-commissioner-kristalina-georgieva/) - An open letter written by the Global Justice Center to European Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid Kristalina Georgieva urging that EU humanitarian aid for women raped in armed conflict respect their rights to non-discriminatory medical care under international humanitarian law. Download PDF - [If These Walls Cold Talk, They Would Be Censored: U.S. Restrictions on Pro-Choice Speech](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/if-these-walls-cold-talk-they-would-be-censored-u-s-restrictions-on-pro-choice-speech/) - If United States foreign assistance funded the writing of this paper, which addresses free speech and women‘s rights issues of the utmost international concern, the authors, two United States citizens, would be censored—by U.S. law—from making any statements that advocated for abortion in any context. Because the writing of this paper is not conditioned on the - [Q&A: How the Laws of War Fail Women](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/q-a-how-the-laws-of-war-fail-women-march-2012/) - Download PDF - [Q&A: How the U.S. “No Abortion” Prohibition on Humanitarian Aid Violates the Rights of Women Raped in Armed Conflict](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/q-a-how-the-u-s-no-abortion-prohibition-on-humanitarian-aid-violates-the-rights-of-women-raped-in-armed-conflict-september-2013/) - Download PDF - [Letter to Ban Ki-Moon: Re: An Urgent Call to Correct Critical Errors Regarding Military Rapes in Myanmar in Your January 13, 2012 Report to the Security Council on Conflict-related Sexual Violence](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-ban-ki-moon-re-an-urgent-call-to-correct-critical-errors-regarding-military-rapes-in-myanmar-in-your-january-13-2012-report-to-the-security-council-on-conflict-related-sexual-violence-februa/) - Download PDF - [Excerpt from the Encyclopedia of Global Studies (2012) published by SAGE Publications Inc. "Global Justice and Legal Issues"](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/global-justice-and-legal-issues/) - The concept of global justice is premised on the belief that all poeple are entitled to certain fundamental human rights solely by virtue of being members of the human community. The 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was a seminal step toward this vision; for the first time, states agreed to uphold the fundamental - [Putting Democracy Out of Reach: How Myanmar’s New Government Violates the Law of Nations and Threatens Global Peace and Security, January 2012](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/putting-democracy-out-of-reach-how-burma-s-new-government-violates-the-law-of-nations-and-threatens-global-peace-and-security-january-2012/) - Recent political moves by President U Thein Sein, representing the new “civilian” government in Burma, must be taken with a grain of salt; the President has no more power to “shift to democracy” than he had in his old job as Burma’s Prime Minister. The world’s parsing of President U Thein Sein’s words is a - [The Legal Obligation to Prevent Genocide in Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-legal-obligation-to-prevent-genocide-in-burma-december-2011/) - The GJC publishes this fact sheet explaining the legal obligation of states to prevent (not just punish) genocide. Burma is now the number one state in the world at risk of genocide; it is therefore the obligation of all states to act against genocide in Burma. Download PDF - [Submission to the CEDAW Committee: Comments on CEDAW’s General Recommendation on Women’s Rights in Conflict & Post-Conflict Situations](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/submission-to-the-cedaw-committee-comments-on-cedaw-s-general-recommendation-on-women-s-rights-in-conflict-post-conflict-situations/) - Download PDF - [Letter to ASEAN Heads of State: ASEAN States, under the Customary Laws of States Responsibility are Prohibited from Recognizing, Myanmar/Burma as an ASEAN Member](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-asean-heads-of-state-asean-states-under-the-customary-laws-of-states-responsability-are-prohibited-from-recognizing-myanmar-burma-as-an-asean-member-because-the-myanmar-burma-constitution-an/) - Letter to ASEAN Heads of State: ASEAN States, under the customary Laws of States Responsibility are Prohibited from Recognizing, Myanmar/Burma as an ASEAN Member Because the Myanmar/Burma Constitution and Elections Violate the Most Fundamental Rules of International Law Download PDF - [Letter to Louise Arbour: RE: The International Crisis Group’s Policy Urging Unconditional Engagement with Myanmar’s Military Rulers Contradicts States’ Absolute Obligations to Respond to Burma’s Serious Breaches of Peremptory Norms of International Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-louise-arbour-re-the-international-crisis-group-s-policy-urging-unconditional-engagement-with-burma-s-military-rulers-contradicts-states-absolute-obligations-to-respond-to-burma-s-serious-br/) - Letter to Louise Arbour: RE: The International Crisis Group’s Policy Urging Unconditional Engagement with Burma’s Military Rulers Contradicts States’ Absolute Obligations to Respond to Burma’s Serious Breaches of Peremptory Norms of International Law, September 2011 Download PDF - [Global Justice Center’s Suggestions and Comments Regarding the Integration of Gender Equality and International Law for the Draft Transitional Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/global-justice-center-s-suggestions-and-comments-regarding-the-integration-of-gender-equality-and-international-law-for-the-draft-transitional-constitution-of-the-republic-of-south-sudan-august-2011/) - The GJC publishes suggestions and comments regarding the integration of gender equality and international law for the draft transitional constitution of the Republic of South Sudan. These suggestions are formatted in a list of the topic, constitutional article and the GJC's issues/comments with it. The topics include Gender Equality, International Law, Prevention of Underage Marriages, - [Myanmar: Comparison of New Government Officials with the Council of the European Union List of Sanctioned Regime Members](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/burma-comparison-of-new-government-officials-with-the-council-of-the-european-union-list-of-sanctioned-regime-members-june-2011/) - This list gives the name of the Burmese government official, the position in new government, the department, the code on the EU list, name on the EU list, and position & department on the EU sanction list. A list is provided for: New Cabinet Members, new Deputy Ministers, new Chief Justice, Attorney-General and Constitutional Tribunal, - [Letter to USG Patricia O’Brien: "Parsing the Disconnect Between the UN Implementation of Security Council Resolutions and UN Enforcement of International Humanitarian Law"](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-patricia-o-brien-parsing-the-disconnect-between-the-un-implementation-of-security-council-resolutions-and-un-enforcement-of-international-humanitarian-law/) - Download PDF - [EngenderHealth's Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/engender-health-letter/) - August 18, 2011: EngenderHealth writes letter to President Obama requesting him to issue an Executive Order lifting the US abortion restrictions on USAID. Download PDF - [European Women's Lawyers' Association's Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/european-womens-lawyers-associations-letter/) - August 11, 2011: European Women's Lawyer's Association writes letter to President Obama requesting him to issue an Executive Order lifting the US abortion restrictions on USAID. Download PDF - [GJC Writes Letter to Baroness Ashton Requesting a Security Council Resolution Declaring the Myanmar Constitution Invalid Under International Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/gjc-writes-letter-to-baroness-ashton-requesting-a-security-council-resolution-declaring-the-burmese-constitution-invalid-under-international-law-april11-2011/) - Download PDF - [Letter to Margot Wallstrom: Re: Implementation Guidelines on Security Council Resolution 1960 and International Humanitarian Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-margot-wallstrom-re-implementation-guidelines-on-security-council-resolution-1960-and-international-humanitarian-law-april-2011/) - Download PDF - [Letter to Catherine Margaret Ashton: Re: Foreign Affairs Council of the European Union Renewal of the Council Common Position on Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-catherine-margaret-ashton-re-foreign-affairs-council-of-the-european-union-renewal-of-the-council-common-position-on-burma-april-2011/) - Download PDF - [The United States at the Helm of Inequality: Abstract of Speech by Janet  Benshoof](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-united-states-at-the-helm-of-inequality-abstract-of-speech-by-janet-benshoof/) - On February 12, 2010, Janet Benshoof spoke at the "From Page to Practice: Broadening the lens for Reproductive and Sexual Rights" Symposium, hosted by NYU's School of law Review of law and Social Change. Benshoof's panel was entitled "Global Movements and the Human Rights Framework". Download PDF - [Comment parler de la censure de la parole au cœur de la politique etrangere americaine: La loi Helms Gag Question - Reponse](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/comment-parler-de-la-censure-de-la-parole-au-coeur-de-la-politique-etrangere-americaine-la-loi-helms-gag-question-reponse/) - Download PDF - [Shadow Report to the Human Rights Council for the Universal Periodic Review of the United States](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/shadow-report-to-the-human-rights-council-for-the-universal-periodic-review-of-the-united-states/) - Download PDF - [How to Talk About the Speech Censorship at the Heart of U.S. Foreign Policy: The Helms Gag Question & Answer](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/how-to-talk-about-the-speech-censorship-at-the-heart-of-u-s-foreign-policy-the-helms-gag-question-answer/) - Download PDF - [NY City Bar Association Letter to Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/on-international-women-s-day-gjc-salutes-the-ny-city-bar-association-for-challenging-the-legality-of-the-us-abortion-prohibitions-imposed-on-us-humanitarian-aid-for-women-raped-in-armed-conflict-march/) - A letter was sent by the Association of the Bar in New York City as a part of GJC's August 12 Campaign challenging the legality of US abortion prohibitions imposed on US humanitarian aid for women raped in armed conflict. Download PDF - [Q&A: How the U.S. "No Abortion" Prohibition on Humanitarian Aid Violates the Rights of Women Raped in Armed Conflict](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/q-a-how-the-u-s-no-abortion-prohibition-on-humanitarian-aid-violates-the-rights-of-women-raped-in-armed-conflict/) - Download PDF - [Timeline of the expansion of the Helms Amendment](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/timeline-of-the-expansion-of-the-helms-amendment/) - Timeline of the expansion of the Helms Amendment and related abortion restrictions on US Foreign Aid: 1973-2011 Download PDF - [The Right to an Abortion for Girls and Women Raped in Armed Conflict](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-right-to-an-abortion-for-girls-and-women-raped-in-armed-conflict-february-2011/) - This brief sets out that (1) rape victims, as the “wounded and sick,” are entitled to abortions under common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions, its Additional Protocols I and II and customary international law, and (2) when states fail to provide abortions or fail to ensure that humanitarian actors on its territory provide abortions, these states are violating international humanitarian law. - [Myanmar’s Nuclear Strategy: How Myanmar’s Military Has Successfully Hijacked Democracy and Made Control over Myanmar’s Nuclear Future a Constitutional Right of the Military](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/burma-s-nuclear-strategy-how-burma-s-military-has-successfully-hijacked-democracy-and-made-control-over-burma-s-nuclear-future-a-constitutional-right-of-the-military-january-2011/) - Download PDF - [New York Review of Law and Social Change, “U.S. Ratification of CEDAW: An Opportunity to Radically Reframe the Right to Equality Accorded Women Under the U.S. Constitution”](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/new-york-review-of-law-and-social-change-u-s-ratification-of-cedaw-an-opportunity-to-radically-reframe-the-right-to-equality-accorded-women-under-the-u-s-constitution-2011/) - The NYU Review of Law & Social Change publishes an article titled "U.S. Ratification of CEDAW: an Opportunity to Radically Reframe the Right to Equality Accorded Women Under the U.S. Constitution" by Janet Benshoof (GJC's Founder and President). Subheadings in this article include "Women's Rights Advocated Shaped the Development of the Supreme Court's Scheme of - [Ten Years Later: Enforcing Security Council Resolution 1325 for the Women of Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/ten-years-later-enforcing-security-council-resolution-1325-for-the-women-of-burma-july-2010/) - The passage of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 (SCR 1325) in 2000 was a legal milestone for women’s equality. For the first time, the UN Security Council not only recognized the gender-specific impact of conflict and historic gender discrimination in criminal accountability, it also underscored the need for women to participate in post-conflict reconstruction. - [Letter to Bernard Kouchner. Re: Response to the Ministry’s Press Release on Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-bernard-kouchner-re-response-to-the-ministry-s-press-release-on-burma-february-2010/) - Letter to Bernard Kouchner. Re: Response to the Ministry’s Press Release on Burma, February 2010. France Letter to Bernard Kouchner. Re: Response to the Ministry’s Press Release on Burma, February 2010. Appendix Download PDF - [Letter to Tomas Ojea Quintana: Urgent: The Activities of the Special Rapporteur on the Situation in Myanmar, including Endorsing the 2008 Constitution and the 2010 Election, are Inconsistent with the Obligations Erga Omnes of the United Nations](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-tomas-quintana-urgent-the-activities-of-the-special-rapporteur-on-the-situation-in-burma-including-endorsing-the-2008-constitution-and-the-2010-election-are-inconsistent-with-the-obligations/) - Download PDF - [Letter to Chief Justice de Jersey: Re: Existing obligations Erga Omnes require the Conference of Chief Justices of the Asia Pacific region to publicly exclude Chief Justice U Aung Toe of Myanmar as a Conference participant](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-chief-justice-de-jersey-re-existing-obligations-ergaomnes-require-the-conference-of-chief-justices-of-the-asia-pacific-region-to-publicly-exclude-chief-justice-u-aung-toe-of-myanmar-as-a-con/) - Download PDF - [Letter to Louise Arbour: Urgent: The ICG Recommendations Urging Support for the 2010 Elections in Myanmar Conflict with States’ Erga Omnes Obligations Under International Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-louise-arbour-urgent-the-icg-recommendations-urging-support-for-the-2010-elections-in-burma-conflict-with-states-ergaomnes-obligations-under-international-law-october-2009/) - Download PDF - [Letter to Ban Ki-Moon: Re: Urgent Action Needed to Denounce Myanmar/Burma’s 2010 Elections and Constitution Which Disenfranchises Women and Attempts to Give the Military Junta Amnesty From Prosecution at the International Criminal Court](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-ban-ki-moon-re-urgent-action-needed-to-denounce-myanmar-burma-s-2010-elections-and-constitution-which-disenfranchises-women-and-attempts-to-give-the-military-junta-amnesty-from-prosecution-a/) - Download PDF - [Global Justice Center Legal Memo on Myanmar Sees Results at the UN](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/global-justice-center-legal-memo-on-burma-sees-results-at-the-un/) - CEDAW Committee Incorporates Legal Recommendations citing to Security Council Resolution 1325 (2000) on Women, Peace and Security and Security Council Resolution 1820 on Sexual Violence in Armed Conflict Download PDF - [Submission to the CEDAW Committee for the Review of Myanmar, October 2008](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/submission-to-the-cedaw-committee-for-the-review-of-burma-october-2008/) - Download PDF - [Crafting Human Security in an Insecure World](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/crafting-human-security-in-an-insecure-world/) - An international working conference co-convened by the Global Justice Center (GJC), B. Kroc Institute for Peace & Justice (IPJ), Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF), United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM), United Nations International Research and Training Institute for the Advancement of Women (UN-INSTRAW) to probe and address global acquiescence to impunity, gender violence and exclusion that continues to obstruct peacebuilding and deny human security. - [Q&A on the Iraqi High Tribunal (IHT) and the Global Justice Center’s monitoring of gender justice](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/q-a-on-the-iraq-high-tribunal-iht-and-the-global-justice-center-s-monitoring-of-gender-justice-august-2008/) - Download PDF - [How to Talk About Myanmar? Question and Answer](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/how-to-talk-about-burma-question-and-answer/) - Download PDF - [The Current Situation in Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-current-situation-in-burma/) - The Myanmar military junta, the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC), continues to exercise dictatorial control over the lives of the people of Myanmar as it has done with impunity over forty years. The junta routinely employs torture, rape, slavery, murder, forced displacement, and mass imprisonment to consolidate its power and silence any dissent. These acts are criminal violations of international humanitarian and human rights law. - [Letter to Secretary-General Irene Kahn: Re: Urgent Clarification Needed on Amnesty International’s June 2008 Security Council Recommendations on Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-irene-kahn-re-urgent-clarification-needed-on-amnesty-international-s-june-2008-security-council-recommendations-on-burma-june-2008/) - Download PDF - [Letter to Baroness Scotland of Asthal: Re: Request for the United Kingdom to Propose a Security Council Resolution Referring the Myanmar Situation to the International Criminal Court, May 2008](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-baroness-scotland-of-asthal-re-request-for-the-united-kingdom-to-propose-a-security-council-resolution-referring-the-burma-situation-to-the-international-criminal-court-may-2008/) - Download PDF - [CEDAW and Colombia: The Path to Liberalizing Colombia’s Abortion Laws](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/cedaw-and-colombia-the-path-to-liberalizing-colombia-s-abortion-laws/) - On May 10th, 2006, the Constitutional Court of Colombia made a historic decision, overturning the nation’s total ban on abortion, and ruling that abortions would now be permitted in the most extreme cases: “when the life of a mother was in danger or the fetus was expected to die or in cases of rape or incest.” This unprecedented case was the first to challenge a domestic abortion law using the United Nation’s Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW). - [Global Justice Now: Investing in Women Leaders as Key Players in Transitional Democracies](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/global-justice-now-investing-in-women-leaders-as-key-players-in-transitional-democracie/) - This document contains a brief introduction to the different legal tools, international instruments and strategic contexts through which the advancement of women worldwide can be facilitated, and how the Global Justice Center is helping to achieve this goal. Download PDF - [The Critical Role of Criminal Accountability in Establishing Rule of Law Based on Gender Equality](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-critical-role-of-criminal-accountability-in-establishing-rule-of-law-based-on-gender-equality/) - There is growing consensus in international law that grave violations of international humanitarian law are a threat to international peace and security and that the world community has a moral and legal duty to intervene if the state is the perpetrator, or cannot or will not stop the crimes. Perpetrators of gender-based crimes must be held accountable in order to ensure a rule of law based on gender equality. - [Don’t Fight the Phony Wars: The US Exportation of Gender Inequality](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/don-t-fight-the-phony-wars-the-us-exportation-of-gender-inequality-september-2007/) - This fact sheet provides information on the Gonzales v. Carhart decision, and how it "opens the door to more criminal laws regulation reproductive rights on theological, ideological and/or moral grounds." The fact sheet also lists the four pillars of Roe, and four phony wars: The Federal Equal Rights Amendment (ERA), the US Ratification of CEDAW, how Roe v. Wade as it stands today is no right to fight for, and the Global Gag Rule. - [Unequal Access to Justice in the Middle East](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/unequal-access-to-justice-in-the-middle-east-september-2007/) - The GJC publishes a fact sheet on unequal access to justice in the Middle East. This fact sheet lists 3 of the obstacles women face in gaining equal access to justice in the Middle East: Penal Codes/Laws, Customary and Social Practices and Limited Judicial Participation. It also provides a table with a list of Middle - [Legal Tools for the Establishment of Gender Equality through International Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/legal-tools-for-the-establishment-of-gender-equality-through-international-law/) - This manual starts with a general background on the role of international law and how it can be used in a domestic context. It then touches on the concept of Customary International Law and some international forums for enforcing women’s rights when domestic efforts fail. We then look at some of the tools women are using – the laws – starting with the women’s rights treaty – the bill of rights for women – Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, followed by a brief discussion of other treaties with a bit of extra focus on the ICCPR. In addition to treaties, a number of other international legal tools have developed including, most recently, Security Council Resolution 1325 on women, peace, and security. The manual then reviews two other forums for enforcing women’s rights—regional bodies and tribunals. It then discusses the role of constitutions and quotas in advancing rights. Finally we try to provide other resources for understanding and researching international law. We hope this guide will be the beginning of your use of international law to advance rights. - [The Use of CEDAW to Invalidate Discriminatory Laws and Promote Gender Equality](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-use-of-cedaw-to-invalidate-discriminatory-laws-and-promote-gender-equality/) - The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) defines discrimination against women and requires states not only to prohibit discrimination but also to take affirmative steps in order to achieve gender equality. The Convention is legally binding upon States that have ratified the Convention and any laws in violation of - [Iraqi Women's Rights and International Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/iraqi-women-s-rights-and-international-law/) - The Women’s Alliance for a Democratic Iraq (WAFDI) and the Global Justice Center (GJC) jointly organized a three-day conference on women’s rights and international law November 13th – 15th at the Dead Sea, Jordan. Attendees included twenty members of the Iraqi High Tribunal (IHT) and representatives from the President’s office, the Prime Minister’s office, the Parliament, the Ministry of Human Rights as well as prominent members of civil society. The conference addressed a crucial subject for women in Iraq: sexual violence, as a war crime, a crime against humanity and an instrument of genocide, and its drastic impact on the victims. This issue was addressed in the context of international law and its role in the IHT, with an eye towards having the IHT address these crimes in its upcoming indictments and judgments. - [Using CEDAW to Advocate for Reproductive Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/using-cedaw-to-advocate-for-reproductive-rights/) - There is great potential in the use of CEDAW and the Optional Protocol to challenge the criminalization of abortion. Every year thousands of women die from illegal abortions. In fact, in countries where abortion is illegal in all circumstances, it is often one of the leading causes of death for women. - [Using International Law in the Struggle for Democracy and Women's Participation in Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/using-international-law-in-the-struggle-for-democracy-and-women-s-participation-in-burma/) - 2006: A fact sheet on how to use international law to improve gender equality and ensure women's participation. Excerpt: The effort to achieve peace, security and democracy in Burma (called Myanmar by the current government) is an on-going battle against a repressive and brutal military regime. Burma is presently controlled by the SPDC, a military regime - [Gender Justice and Training for the Iraqi High Tribunal](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/gender-justice-and-training-for-the-iraq-high-tribunal/) - At the request of the Judges of the Iraqi High Tribunal, GJC and WAFDI led two trainings for the Iraqi High Tribunal (IHT) Judges in 2006. A pilot training in Baghdad in March 2006 gathered information on gaps in the training the IHT judges had received on international law, as well as to inform the strategy of Iraqi women in working with the tribunal to access justice. Last week, November 13-15, 2006, the GJC and the WAFDI led a three-day training with international expert trainers and Iraqi women civil society participants. This historic training, which took place in Jordan, marked the first time ever that judges in the Middle East have spoken with women about sex, sexual violence, and honor killings. - [Using the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women to Advocate for the Political Rights of Women in a Democratic Burma](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/using-the-convention-on-the-elimination-of-all-forms-of-discrimination-against-women-to-advocate-for-the-political-rights-of-women-in-a-democratic-burma/) - The military dictatorship ruling Burma has had a firm grip on the country for over forty years. Despite authorizing a democratic election in 1990, the junta refused to turn over power, and jailed many elected to office. Forces for a democratic Burma remain strong, although the draconian measures taken by the ruling regime have forced the majority of those fighting for democracy to organize in exile. These groups in exile are joined together by a vital fight to bring peace to Burma after decades of violence, a peace that would enable them to return home. Unfortunately, the inclusion of women in this effort has been pushed aside in the name of a larger struggle, likely with the assumption that equality will be addressed once there is democracy. This assumption undermines democracy itself. Critical to the formation of a democratic Burma is the inclusion of women in all the nation-building steps, such as peace negotiations, transitional governments, constitution drafting, and war-crimes tribunals. Those groups arguing for democracy and the rule of law must live up to their own rhetoric and set the stage for a true democracy by ensuring the inclusion of women. - [False Choices: Sacrificing Equality to get CEDAW](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/false-choices-sacrificing-equality-to-get-cedaw/) - The United States signed the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) in 1980, but it has not yet ratified the Convention. Proponents of ratification argue that the U.S.’ failure to ratify CEDAW hurts American efforts, by both the government and private organizations, to promote human rights. Although the Global Justice Center agrees, we urge organizations committed to promoting true gender equality not to support ratification accompanied by the sort of "understanding" added by Senator Helms in 1994. The compromises made by the addition of the Helms "understanding" sacrificed the core concepts of CEDAW. This dangerous "understanding" resurrects the discriminatory fallacy of biology as destiny and promotes the agenda of those who would find laws severely restricting or even criminalizing abortion to be perfectly compatible with "women's rights" and "equality." - [Facilitating Collaboration in Darfur: Organizations Working with Women in Darfur, Sudan on Sexual Violence and the Rule of Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/facilitating-collaboration-in-darfur-organizations-working-with-women-in-darfur-sudan-on-sexual-violence-and-the-rule-of-law/) - The Global Justice Center has assembled this directory of organizations working with women in Darfur, Sudan. The organizations surveyed in this directory provide a range of services for women. From subsidizing basic needs, to documenting rape cases, to enabling women to take active part in the peace process, these organizations are encouraging women to assume their rightful place in Sudanese society. The support provided by the contributing organizations is vital to Sudanese women at this crucial time in their history and the Global Justice Center is pleased to contribute to these efforts by providing this directory. We hope it will be a useful resource to the international NGO community, to Sudanese civil society and to the women of Darfur. We also hope it facilitates collaboration and communication among these organizations and ultimately, help us all to better serve the women and girls in Darfur. - [The Anfal Decision: Breaking New Ground for Women’s Rights in Iraq](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-anfal-decision-breaking-new-ground-for-women-s-rights-in-iraq-june-2007/) - The Anfal decision was made by the Iraqi High Tribunal (IHT), in prosecuting crimes committed under the Anfal campaign against Iraq's Kurdish population. The decision is a step in the right direction for women's rights in Iraq. This fact sheet gives information on the decision, including rape as torture, rape as genocide, joint criminal enterprise and rape, and how the IHT can be a vehicle for legal reform both in Iraq and internationally. - [Frequently Asked Questions About Myanmar and the International Criminal Court](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/frequently-asked-questions-about-burma-and-the-international-criminal-court/) - Fact sheet addressing how and why the UN Security Council should refer the situation in Myanmar to the International Criminal Court. Download PDF - [Advancing the Legal Enforcement of SCR 1325: Structural and Political Obstacles Imposed by the United Nations](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/advancing-the-legal-enforcement-of-scr-1325-structural-and-political-obstacles-imposed-by-the-united-nations/) - The passage of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 (SCR 1325) in 2000 was a legal milestone for women’s rights to equality and non-discrimination. For the first time the UN Security Council not only recognized the gender-biased impact of internal or country conflict, it also mandated that the UN itself and all member states erect - [Criminal Accountability for Heinous Crimes in Myanmar: A Joint Project of the Global Justice Center and the Burma’s Lawyer’s Council](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/criminal-accountability-for-heinous-crimes-in-burma-a-joint-project-of-the-global-justice-center-and-the-burma-s-lawyer-s-council-2007/) - The Global Justice Center and the Burma Lawyers' Council publish, in a joint project, this fact sheet on criminal accountability for heinous crimes in Burma. This fact sheet gives information on the project on criminal accountability, and states that the Security Council should end the impunity accorded the Burmese military junta for crimes perpetrated against - [Invisible and Silenced Women: The Stories of Women Tortured During Saddam Hussein's Regime](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/invisible-and-silenced-women-the-stories-of-women-tortured-during-saddam-hussein-s-regime/) - Excerpts from a report being compiled by the Global Justice Center and a team of Harvard Law students assisting Iraqi women. GJC has documented reports of over 4,000 incidents of rape and gender-based violence in Iraq during Saddam Hussein’s regime. Download PDF - [Full Incident Report: Sexual Violence and Abuse of Women in Iraq - July 16, 1968-May 1, 2003](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/full-incident-report-sexual-violence-and-abuse-of-women-in-iraq-july-16-1968-may-1-2003/) - 2006: This fact sheet contains a summary of reported incidents of rape and gender-based abuse in Iraq during the Saddam regime. Download PDF - [Women's Law Project Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/women-s-law-project-letter-to-president-obama/) - Letter sent to President Obama by the Women's Law Project as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. Download PDF - [Letter to Secretary Blinken from U.S. Orgs & Leaders in Solidarity with Palestinian Civil Society](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-secretary-blinken-from-u-s-orgs-leaders-in-solidarity-with-palestinian-civil-society/) - 288 Organizations Demand Biden Administration Condemn Israel’s Crackdown on Human Rights Groups Dear Secretary Blinken: The undersigned U.S.-based social justice, civil rights, and human rights leaders and organizations write to demand that you immediately and unequivocally condemn the Israeli government’s recent decision to outlaw and criminalize six Palestinian human rights and community-based organizations. The Palestinian - [Another Wave of Atrocity Crimes in Chin State: UN Security Council Must Act Now to End Myanmar Junta’s Campaign of Terror](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/another-wave-of-atrocity-crimes-in-chin-state-un-security-council-must-act-now-to-end-myanmar-junta-s-campaign-of-terror/) - We, the undersigned 521 Myanmar, regional and international civil society organizations, call on the UN Security Council to urgently convene a meeting on the escalating attacks in Chin State, and address the rapidly deteriorating humanitarian, human rights and political crisis in Myanmar. We call for the UN Security Council to adopt a resolution to consolidate - [Statement Urging Sixth Committee Action on The International Law Commission’s Draft Articles on Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Humanity](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/statement-urging-sixth-committee-action-on-the-international-law-commission-s-draft-articles-on-prevention-and-punishment-of-crimes-against-humanity/) - Whereas over the course of human history, millions of people, particularly women and children, have been subjected to murder, extermination, enslavement, deportation, persecution, and other atrocities that have shocked the conscience of humanity, Whereas it was established in 1946 by the International Military Tribunal at Nuremberg that these “crimes against humanity” are crimes under international - [Civil society assess outcomes of UNGA76 Third Committee session](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/civil-society-assess-outcomes-of-unga76-third-committee-session/) - The 14 undersigned civil society organisations mark the conclusion of the UN General Assembly’s (GA) 76th Third Committee session with the following observations on both thematic and country-specific resolutions. We urge all States to implement the commitments they have made in the resolutions discussed below to their full extent. We welcome the joint statement on reprisals led by - [Ethiopia: The UN Human Rights Council should urgently hold special session to address the ongoing human rights crisis](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/ethiopia-the-un-human-rights-council-should-urgently-hold-special-session-to-address-the-ongoing-human-rights-crisis/) - We, the undersigned human rights non-governmental organizations (NGOs), strongly urge the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) to hold a special session on the ongoing human rights crisis in Ethiopia and to establish a robust investigative mechanism in that context. We urge your delegation to support such action without further delay. On 3 November the Office - [Ending Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment in Global Health](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/ending-sexual-exploitation-abuse-and-harassment-in-global-health/) - Your excellencies, The 16 Days of Activism, 25 November to 10 December, mark the global campaign for the prevention and elimination of Gender Based Violence. During the 16 Days of Activism 2021, we the undersigned organizations, wish to express our deep concern at the sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment (SEAH) of women and girls by - [48th Anniversary of Helms Letter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/48th-anniversary-of-helms-letter/) - Dear President Biden, We, the undersigned organizations, call on you to protect reproductive freedom and bodily autonomy for people across the globe by demonstrating your support for the repeal of the Helms Amendment. Failure to do so is in direct conflict with the priorities stated by this administration to “promote access to sexual and reproductive - [Hold the Myanmar military and security forces accountable for their grave human rights violations, including violence against women](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/hold-the-myanmar-military-and-security-forces-accountable-for-their-grave-human-rights-violations-including-violence-against-women/) - We, the undersigned women’s rights and human rights organizations, call upon the UN Security Council to hold the Myanmar military and security forces accountable for their grave human rights violations, including the use of violence against women. We strongly condemn the Myanmar military and security forces for their acts in violation of international human rights - [Submission to UN Special Rapporteur on Health — Abortion and Violence](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/submission-to-un-special-rapporteur-on-health-abortion-and-violence/) - The following is responding specifically to question 2 regarding how the legal framework defines, punishes, and provides redress for the relevant types of violence. Denial of abortion is deeply entwined with violence as everything from risk factor to lack of redress. Indeed, the denial of abortion is itself a form of structural violence. Additionally, access - [Support the Women's Health Protection Act](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/support-the-women-s-health-protection-act/) - Dear Senators: The more than 225 undersigned organizations dedicated to protecting and advancing civil rights, health, economic security, LGBTQ rights, and gender justice write in support of S. 1975, the “Women’s Health Protection Act” (WHPA). We urge the Senate to swiftly bring the bill to the floor and for all Senators to vote yes on - [Submission to UK International Development Committee — Gender and Mass Atrocities](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/submission-to-uk-international-development-committee-gender-and-mass-atrocities/) - The following responds specifically to the topic: How the UK Government’s approach to atrocity prevention interacts with other government policies and areas of work, such as the FCDO’s approach to conflict prevention, the Women, Peace and Security agenda and the Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict Initiative Gender inequality is itself a root cause of mass - [Joint statement on Myanmar UN Security Council open briefing](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/joint-statement-on-myanmar-un-security-council-open-briefing/) - We, the undersigned 286 organizations stress the need, at an absolute minimum, to convene an open meeting of the UN Security Council to address the deteriorating humanitarian situation and urgent civilian protection concerns in Myanmar as a matter of extreme urgency. As we approach one year since the attempted coup on 1 February, all UN - [Diaspora, CBOs/CSOs, NGOs Urge President Biden to Implement a Coordinated Response Against the Burmese Military Junta](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/diaspora-cbos-csos-ngos-urge-president-biden-to-implement-a-coordinated-response-against-the-burmese-military-junta/) - Dear President Biden, We, the undersigned 233 diaspora, CBOs/CSOs and nonprofit organizations from 17 countries, write to urge your Administration to implement a coordinated and comprehensive response to the Burmese military’s shocking and escalating violence since the February 1, 2021, attempted coup. The Burmese military’s systematic violence has resulted in extensive loss of life, daily - [Abortion and President Biden's State of the Union](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/abortion-and-president-biden-s-state-of-the-union/) - Dear President Biden, People’s access to abortion in this country is in crisis, with attacks coming constantly from all levels ranging from the Supreme Court to state and local governments. That’s why it is imperative that everyone, from the White House to Congress to state and municipal governments to local communities, work hard to protect - [Tigray: Call for Service for CRSV Survivors](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/tigray-call-for-service-for-crsv-survivors/) - To: Pramila Patten Office of the Under Secretary General Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict ( USG SRSG/SVC) Re: Service Provision for Survivors of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence in Tigray Your Excellency, We the undersigned are writing to you at this time in accordance with the landmark United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 (S/RES/1325) - [Enabling access to quality abortion care: WHO's Abortion Care guideline](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/enabling-access-to-quality-abortion-care-who-s-abortion-care-guideline/) - Fundamental to meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on health and wellbeing (SDG3) and gender equality (SDG5) is the recognition that access to sexual and reproductive health information and services is central to both individual and community health, as well as the realisation of human rights. Comprehensive abortion care, which includes information provision, abortion management, - [Civil Society Open Letter on New ICC Gender Persecution Policy Paper](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/civil-society-open-letter-on-new-icc-gender-persecution-policy-paper/) - Dear Prosecutor Khan: It is with great enthusiasm that we write to you about the development of the comprehensive policy paper to advance accountability for the crime against humanity of persecution on the grounds of gender. In the 1990s, MADRE housed the Women’s Caucus for Gender Justice, a worldwide coalition of women’s rights activists working - [Call for Urgent Debate on the women’s rights crisis in Afghanistan at the 50th session of the UN Human Rights Council](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/call-for-urgent-debate-on-the-women-s-rights-crisis-in-afghanistan-at-the-50th-session-of-the-un-human-rights-council/) - Excellencies, We, the undersigned civil society organisations, urge you to call for and support an urgent debate at the 50th session of the UN Human Rights Council regarding the women’s rights crisis in Afghanistan. We further urge you to support a resolution responding to this crisis. Since August 2021, when the Taliban took control of the country, - [Letter to Human Rights Council on Diverse Appointment for Special Rapporteur on Torture](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-human-rights-council-on-diverse-appointment-for-special-rapporteur-on-torture/) - Dear Ambassador Villegas, The organizations signing this letter write to you, in your capacity as President of the Human Rights Council (HRC), to request that you adopt measures to ensure that a woman is elected for the first time as the next Special Rapporteur on Torture (SRT) and to consider geographical representation in your decision. - [Open Letter Calling for a Complete and Accurate List of Perpetrators](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/open-letter-calling-for-a-complete-and-accurate-list-of-perpetrators/) - Dear Mr. Secretary-General We are writing with regard to your forthcoming annual report on children and armed conflict (CAAC). As you finalize your decisions regarding the annexes and inclusion of other situations of concern, we urge you to ensure the publication of a complete list of perpetrators of grave violations that is evidence-based and accurately - [Submission to UN Special Rapporteur on Health — Racism and the right to health](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/submission-to-un-special-rapporteur-on-health-racism-and-the-right-to-health/) - The United States (US) is experiencing a national crisis in reproductive health care and its disproportionate impact on women and pregnant people of color. This response discusses three sites of gendered racial discrimination in the US: the shackling of pregnant prisoners, abortion restrictions, and the criminalization of pregnant people and pregnancy outcomes. - [Sector statement on queering atrocity prevention](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/sector-statement-on-queering-atrocity-prevention/) - Queer people’s experience of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes is not new. From the British Indian Penal Code of 1860, the Holocaust, the ongoing anti-gay purges in Chechnya, and legal shifts which persecute members of the LGBTQI+ community and allies, LGBTQI+ communities have been, and still are, deliberately targeted by systematic violence and - [List of Issues submission to the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination during its periodic review of the United States](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/list-of-issues-submission-to-the-united-nations-committee-on-the-elimination-of-racial-discrimination-during-its-periodic-review-of-the-united-states/) - The United States’ combined report to the Committee does not consider the current national crisis in reproductive health care and its disproportionate impact on women and pregnant people of color. To mitigate this omission, this submission discusses four sites of gendered racial discrimination in the US: the shackling of pregnant prisoners, inequalities in screening and treatment for cervical cancer, abortion restrictions, and the criminalization of pregnant people and pregnancy outcomes. - [Options to Advance the ILC Draft Articles on the Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Humanity](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/options-to-advance-the-ilc-draft-articles-on-the-prevention-and-punishment-of-crimes-against-humanity/) - This Memorandum identifies three potential avenues to advance the International Law Commission’s Draft Articles on Crimes Against Humanity to the next procedural step. It is intended as a practical, not a technical, guide. The Draft Articles on Crimes Against Humanity have widespread support from States, yet opposition from a few States has caused them to - [Medical disinformation on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/medical-disinformation-on-facebook-instagram-tiktok-twitter-and-youtube/) - Your platforms are currently enabling, and profiting from, the spread of dangerous medical misinformation about the FDA-approved drugs mifepristone and misoprostol, which are used in the FDA-approved regimen for medication abortion care. These drugs have a long track record of scientific safety and study. Read the Full Letter - [Letter to Biden Admin: Take Steps to Implement Exceptions for Funding of Abortion Services Abroad](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-biden-admin-use-power-to-fund-abortion-care-abroad/) - As organizations dedicated to protecting and expanding global reproductive health, rights, and justice, including abortion access, we are heartened to hear that you maintain an unwavering commitment to sexual and reproductive health care. The recent Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization Supreme Court decision is a public health emergency that has and will continue to threaten the health and lives of people seeking essential health care services, not just for those in the U.S. but also for people globally. We are glad to see those in USAID and the State Department recognizing and calling out the devastation that this decision will bring worldwide and reaffirming your commitment to protect and care for those you serve. - [Key Points for the CERD Committee’s Review of the United States: Abortion Restrictions are a Form of Racial Discrimination](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/key-points-for-the-cerd-committee-s-review-of-the-united-states-abortion-restrictions-are-a-form-of-racial-discrimination/) - Abortion Restrictions violate the right to health of women of color and perpetuate racial discrimination - [Submission to UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination: US Abortion Restrictions are a Form of Racial Discrimination](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/submission-to-un-committee-on-the-elimination-of-racial-discrimination-us-abortion-restrictions-are-a-form-of-racial-discrimination/) - Introduction “Racism in America is more than the fire hoses, police dogs and Alabama sheriffs you envision when you hear the words,” writes Petula Dvorak. It is also the tyranny inflicted on racialized women when they are stripped of their reproductive autonomy, shackled while giving birth, and excluded from lifesaving health care and information on - [European Parliament Hearing: The Situation of Women in Armed Conflicts in the Context of Security Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-situation-of-women-in-armed-conflicts-in-the-context-of-security-resolution-1325-on-women-peace-and-security/) - Briefing by Janet Benshoof, President of Global Justice Center. Thank you. It is an honor to address this body. The EU, unquestionably, is the global leader in advancing international law and women’s equality. As we sit here today, over 200 Christian Chibok schoolgirls are waking up to their 548th day of dehumanizing sexual degradation by - [World Day for International Justice](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/world-day-for-international-justice/) - International recognition of gender-based crimes is essential in achieving justice for women in conflict and post-conflict societies. Genocide is carried out differently against women than it is men, detailed in Nadia’s harrowing accounts that represent thousands of Yazidi women still caught in extreme, brutal, and systematized acts of sexual violence that amount to genocide. The global failure to heed Nadia’s pleas and act to prevent this ongoing genocide specifically against Yazidi victims of sexual violence is both discriminatory and disgraceful in effect. - [Calling for Accountability on International Justice Day](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/calling-for-accountability-on-international-justice-day/) - Murder, torture, and rape - acts that may qualify as Genocide and for which The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (“ISIS”) is well known. When US Secretary of State, John Kerry, recently used “genocide” to describe their actions, he instigated a slew of debates about the possibility of prosecuting ISIS fighters for these crimes. - [Commemorating the Srebrenica Massacre](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/commemorating-the-srebrenica-massacre/) - Last year, when commemorating the July 11, 1995 commencement of hostilities in Srebrenica, Bosnia & Herzegovina that ended in the deaths of 8,000 men, the White House wrote that, “only by holding the perpetrators of the genocide to account can we offer some measure of justice to help heal their loved ones.” Political condemnation is, in other words, not enough; criminal prosecution should follow such remarks. Today, the United States and other international actors who have acknowledged the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria’s (“ISIS”) genocidal acts must honor the legacy of the International Criminal Tribunal in Yugoslavia (“ICTY”) and follow international humanitarian law by prosecuting ISIS fighters for genocide. - [Dispatch from Geneva - Behind the Scenes Update from GJC's Senior Burma Researcher](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/dispatch-from-geneva-behind-the-scenes-update-from-gjc-s-senior-burma-researcher/) - Phyu Phyu Sann, far right, the Global Justice Center’s Senior Burma Researcher, is in Geneva, Switzerland for the United Nation’s (UN) review of Myanmar’s implementation of its obligations under the Convention of the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) to ensure gender equality. In Myanmar, the UN’s Committee on the Elimination of - [Rape in Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/rape-in-genocide/) - “In the light of its factual findings with regard to the allegations of sexual violence […] the [International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda] considers the criminal responsibility of the Accused on Count 13, crimes against humanity (rape), punishable.” (The Prosecutor v Jean-Paul Akayesu, 1998) Despite the conviction of rape as a component of genocide nearly - [Briefing Paper for the CEDAW Committee on Women’s Rights Challenges in Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/briefing-paper-for-the-cedaw-committee-on-women-s-rights-challenges-in-myanmar/) - As a signatory to the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), Myanmar must fulfill its obligations to ensure both de jure and de facto equality for women. Yet, despite these obligations, women and girls across Myanmar face multiple obstacles to realizing their rights to substantive equality and non-discrimination. A deep history of patriarchy and negative gender stereotypes, decades of oppressive military dictatorship, and the continued power of the military have left an unfavorable legacy in the form of legal structures that discriminate against women, legal provisions that do not guarantee gender equality or adequately protect women, and inadequate resource allocation to promote policies and programmes to ensure women’s empowerment. These deeply-embedded shortcomings have meant that women in large part have not been the beneficiaries of the democratic reforms begun in 2011 and continue to be marginalized in politics and the peace process. With a new government in charge, there is a unique opportunity in Myanmar to undertake wide-ranging legal and institutional reform to ensure that women are able to enjoy rights as equal citizens. The Government must work in tandem with civil society to ensure progress, to promote women’s rights and fulfill its obligations under CEDAW. - [Submission to the United Nations Committee against Torture 59th Session List of Issues Prior to Reporting – United States](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/submission-to-the-united-nations-committee-against-torture-59th-session-list-of-issues-prior-to-reporting-united-states/) - This submission sets out concerns over US policies that restrict foreign aid for abortion services, which we urge the Committee against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (“Committee”) consider in its preparation of the list of issues to be examined during review of the United States’ (“US”) periodic report for the 59th Session. These policies systematically deny access to abortion services to girls and women around the world, including war rape victims, resulting in severe physical and mental pain and suffering in contravention of US obligations under the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (“CAT” or “Convention”). - [Making Justice for Burma/Myanmar a Reality](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/making-justice-for-burma-a-reality/) - Written by Phyu Phyu Sann, GJC Burma Researcher I am part of a generation of people from Burma who grew up dreaming of and longing for justice. A generation that continues to be victimized by terrible acts of mass atrocities carried out by our own ruling regime. Extrajudicial killings, torture, and forced labor are prevalent; - [UK Baroness Uddin Uses GJC Legal Arguements in House of Lords Debate to Call for end to Discriminatory Care of Women Raped in Conflict](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/uk-baroness-uddin-uses-gjc-legal-arguements-in-house-of-lords-debate-to-call-for-end-to-discriminatory-care-of-women-raped-in-conflict/) - In her statement last Thursday, the UK House of Lords' Baroness Uddin used a new legal argument from the Global Justice Center to call for the end to the routine denial of access to abortions for women who are raped and impregnated in conflict. Baroness Uddin identified the United States policy of censoring humanitarian aid recipients from speaking about or providing access to abortions as playing a major role in the continuing violation of the rights of these victims and called on the UK to ask questions of the United States about this policy when it is reviewed by the UN Human Rights Council. - [GJC in Geneva: Challenging US Policy that Denies Abortions to Victims Raped in Conflict](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/gjc-in-geneva-challenging-us-policy-that-denies-abortions-to-victims-raped-in-conflict/) - We are pleased to share with you a crucial step in our work to repeal the illegal U.S. policy that prevents women and girls raped and impregnated in conflict from accessing abortions. Previously, we wrote about the international legal arguments that we were developing to challenge the abortion restrictions that the United States places on all of - [Helms Amendment at Work in the Democratic Republic of the Congo](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/helms-amendment-at-work-in-the-congo/) - The late August four-day onslaught of mass sexual violence in Walikale, in Eastern Congo, is just the most recent example of a societal epidemic that has come to define the region with devastating consequences. Although early figures suggested that approximately 150 women were raped during this outbreak (most of whom were gang raped by between two to six people), these numbers have continued to escalate. As of now, a staggering 303 cases of women, children, and men have been reported; it is likely that many more victims have remained silent. Further, in recent testimony to the Security Council, the Special Representative of the Secretary General to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Robert Meece, said that “[t]he best data available, for example, suggests that over 15,000 rapes were committed last year in eastern DRC.” - [Advancing Gender Equality: What I Learned from the 55th Commission on the Status of Women](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/advancing-gender-equality-what-i-learned-from-the-55th-commission-on-the-status-of-women/) - In late February, I attended the 55th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), a commission of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), dedicated exclusively to gender equality and advancement of women. The purpose of CSW is to create a forum where leaders and activists in the gender equality field can brainstorm on how - [Global Justice Center and Other Women’s Health Advocates Call for the Obama Administration to Make the US a Leader in Pushing for Reproductive Rights Worldwide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/global-justice-center-and-other-women-s-health-advocates-call-for-the-obama-administration-to-make-the-us-a-leader-in-pushing-for-reproductive-rights-worldwide/) - Women’s health advocates are disillusioned with the lack of effort the Obama Administration has made in addressing reproductive rights for women around the world. Since 1973, with the passage of the Helms and later Siljander Amendments, prohibitive US policies have prevented access to reproductive healthcare for women around the globe. Fortunately, the GJC sees a new and unique opportunity for the current Administration to overturn the policies that prohibit access to abortion for girls and women raped in armed conflict. - [Exposing a “Pornography Ploy”: Global Justice Center calls for Myanmar President U Thein Sein to release all political prisoners and make public all related trial transcripts](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/exposing-a-pornography-ploy-the-global-justice-center-calls-for-president-u-thein-sein-to-release-all-political-prisoners-and-make-public-all-related-trial-transcripts/) - The Global Justice Center calls for Myanmar President U Thein Sein to release all political prisoners and make public all related trial transcripts. The Global Justice Center today released a October 23, 2008 official court transcript which exposes the military’s use of trumped up pornography charges to convict fourteen Buddhist nuns and monks suspected of supporting the “Saffron Revolution” of 2007. - [Recent Wave of Defecting Diplomats and War Crimes Confessions Brings Myanmar’s Human Rights Abuses to the Foreground](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/recent-wave-of-defecting-diplomats-and-war-crimes-confessions-brings-burma-s-human-rights-abuses-to-the-foreground/) - In the past two weeks, Deputy Chief of Mission Kyaw Win and Soe Aung, the second and fourth-ranking diplomats at the Myanmar Embassy in Washington, have defected and are seeking asylum in the United States. Both diplomats cited the unrelenting abuse of their fellow countrymen by the military junta, sham elections, and fear for the safety of themselves and their families as reasons for their defections. - [Reflections on This Week’s Release of 184 Political Prisoners in Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/reflections-on-this-week-s-release-of-184-political-prisoners-in-burma/) - Rather than feeling jubilation or unconstrained hope, we are reminded through our personal conversations with them of the overwhelming feelings that come with being released (in some cases, after 23 years) as well as the despairing anguish of knowing that so many other political prisoners remain in prisons across Myanmar. - [A Tragic Anniversary: Boko Haram’s Abduction of the Chibok School Girls](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/a-tragic-anniversary-boko-haram-s-abduction-of-the-chibok-school-girls/) - Today marks the anniversary of one of the most infamous acts of violence against women and children within the past decade. Last year, the extremist Islamic group, Boko Haram, attacked the village of Chibok and abducted over two hundred school girls. Despite the popularity of the Bring Back Our Girls campaign, the girls remain in captivity, suffering daily brutalities at the hands of their captors. It has become clear that the perpetrators of the kidnapping have specifically targeted Christian women and girls in an act of genocide. Today, the Global Justice Center has submitted an Op-Ed to the Huffington Post about the Boko Haram abductions and posted a letter and brief to Chief Prosecutor, Fatou Bensouda, of the ICC. It is imperative that the Nigerian school girls are not abandoned by the international community. To put in perspective the efforts necessary for ending impunity and rescuing these girls, first consider the action taken to assist these women, and then compare with that which was taken after the downing of the Malaysia aircraft. - [Pursuing Sexual Violence: UN Condemns Acts of Boko Haram](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/pursuing-sexual-violence-un-condemns-acts-of-boko-haram/) - During activities for International Women’s Day of 2015, issues of escalating sexual violence were highlighted on a global scale. The UN Secretary General explicitly called for action against groups such as Boko Haram and ISIS, who employ rape as a weapon of war. A report was released Monday in which the UN reiterated concern about the pervasive sexual violence in areas such as Iraq, Syria, Nigeria, and Yemen. Rape and other forms of sexual violence, such as forced pregnancy and marriage, are being condemned as a method of terrorism, employed by extremist groups in 19 different countries. The UN report criticizes 45 different groups for their use of sexual violence and particularly decries Boko Haram for their continued abuses. - [President Biden: Stop Israeli Government’s Attacks on Palestinian Civil Society](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/president-biden-stop-israeli-government-s-attacks-on-palestinian-civil-society/) - We write because your administration’s consistently yielding response to the Israeli government’s escalating attacks against prominent Palestinian human rights and civil society groups over the past 10 months has put the safety and well-being of Palestinian human rights defenders at serious risk. We call for immediate action in response to the Israeli government’s latest escalation so as to curtail any further imminent repressive tactics by Israeli authorities and ensure Palestinian civil society is free to continue its critical work. - [Google Maps and Crisis Pregnancy Centers Sign On Letter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/google-maps-and-crisis-pregnancy-centers-sign-on-letter/) - We are writing to ask that Google stop accepting advertisements from anti-abortion clinics, including Crisis Pregnancy Centers, due to their intentionally misleading and harmful impacts on people seeking reproductive health services. - [CSO letter in support of the UN and WHO](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/cso-letter-in-support-of-the-un-and-who/) - We are writing to register our outrage at Acting USAID Administrator John Barsa’s letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres demanding the UN remove reference to “sexual and reproductive health” from the Global Humanitarian Response Plan’s (HRP) guidance on COVID-19. The removal of this wording is not symbolic--it will have a detrimental impact on people who need and rely on sexual and reproductive health services. We are deeply concerned about the health and human rights impact of this request, which comes at the same time the U.S. Government is attacking the WHO and threatening to freeze funding in the midst of the COVID- 19 pandemic. - [FY 2021 Appropriations - Repro Community Letter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/fy-2021-appropriations-repro-community-letter/) - As you debate and consider fiscal year 2021 (FY 2021) funding bills, the undersigned organizations committed to advancing reproductive health, rights, and justice urge you to introduce and pass bills that promote access to reproductive health care, including abortion, and protect reproductive freedom. - [Submission to the Commission on Unalienable Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/submission-to-the-commission-on-unalienable-rights/) - As a human rights non-governmental organization, we write to express our deep concern with the Commission, its work to date, and the potential harm that a final report produced by the Commission, in line with its mandate and the views expressed by several of its members, may have on the international human rights framework. - [Asia Justice Coalition Statement - Rohingya at sea](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/asia-justice-coalition-statement-rohingya-at-sea/) - The Asia Justice Coalition – a network of organizations that have come together to focus on international justice and accountability in Asia – expresses its grave concern at the plight of Rohingya refugees stranded at sea. - [Global Submission to US Commission on Unalienable Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/global-submission-to-us-commission-on-unalienable-rights/) - As human rights organizations, scholars, defenders and activists, we the 167 undersigned, write to express our grave concern about the work of the U.S. State Department’s Commission on Unalienable Rights and any potential report or output that undermines the international human rights system and purports to reinterpret its respective treaties and monitoring bodies. In particular, we urge the Commission to reject the prioritization of freedom of religion as a cloak to permit violations of the human rights of women, girls, and lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people. - [Joint CSO letter to UNSC on participation & transparency](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/joint-cso-letter-to-unsc-on-participation-transparency/) - We, the undersigned civil society organisations, write to you as human rights, humanitarian, development and peacebuilding organisations that actively and regularly contribute to the work of the UN Security Council. We write to you at this time to raise concerns around the transparency of the work of the Security Council and obstacles to the effective participation of civil society in its work due to recent changes to the working methods of the Council in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. - [Submission to the Group of Independent Experts: The Need to Center Gender in the Review of the International Criminal Court and Rome Statute System](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/submission-to-the-group-of-independent-experts-the-need-to-center-gender-in-the-review-of-the-international-criminal-court-and-rome-statute-system/) - Gender permeates the planning, commission, and resolution of criminal acts within the International Criminal Court’s jurisdiction. It is woven into perpetrators’ planning and commission of crimes, as well as victims’ (individual and collective) experience and recovery of acts committed against them. Accordingly, gender must be a central criterion in the group of independent experts’ review of the International Criminal Court (“ICC” or “the Court”) and the Rome Statute system. Laudably, the Rome Statute was among the first international treaties to extensively address sexual and gender-based violence. Moreover, from the beginning of her term ICC Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda has made it a priority to close the gender justice gap, as evidenced by her Policy Paper on Sexual and GenderBased Crimes, the first ever such policy for an international court or tribunal. Despite these foundational pillars and priorities, in the 18 years of the Court’s operation there has only been one standing conviction on sexual violence. This submission highlights avenues for improving gender justice at varying stages of a case. It identifies opportunities for progress regarding staffing and prosecutorial strategies on case selection, prioritization, and investigation that hinder access to justice in these cases. Until gender is mainstreamed throughout all stages of ICC cases, the Court will be limited in its capacity to deliver justice. - [MISP Letter to Acting Administrator Barsa](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/misp-letter-to-acting-administrator-barsa/) - As members of the Inter-Agency Working Group on Reproductive Health in Crises (IAWG) we are writing to thank the U.S. government for its emergency response and humanitarian assistance to the COVID-19 global pandemic and to inquire about the inclusion of sexual and reproductive health supplies and services. - [MISP Letter to Acting Administrator O'Connell](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/misp-letter-to-acting-administrator-o-connell/) - As members of the Inter-Agency Working Group on Reproductive Health in Crises (IAWG) we are writing to thank the U.S. government for its emergency response and humanitarian assistance to the COVID-19 global pandemic and to inquire about the inclusion of sexual and reproductive health supplies and services. - [Re: Request regarding Covid-19, Docket: FDA-2020-D-1106](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/re-request-regarding-covid-19-docket-fda-2020-d-1106/) - We, the undersigned, respectfully request the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reconsider its limitation of the recently released Policy for Certain REMS Requirements During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (Docket FDA-2020-D-1106). - [Fundamental Constitutional Review Needed in Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/fundamental-constitutional-review-needed-in-burma/) - Unlike any other constitution in the world, the Burmese Constitution creates a bifurcated sovereignty. It ensures that the military is constitutionally autonomous from and supreme over the civilian government. Even if he is willing, the President, Thein Sein, cannot enforce any laws against the military. Furthermore; the constitution guarantees the military amnesty for all crimes – including the most heinous such as genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity. It also ensures the perpetual dominance of the military by guaranteeing that 25% of the seats in Parliament are reserved solely for the military, while parading itself as a multi-party “democracy”. - [How the “August 12th Campaign” sparked a movement](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/how-the-august-12th-campaign-sparked-a-movement/) - The London Times published an article featuring the Queen’s Counsel’s effort to pressure President Barack Obama to issue an Executive Order lifting the “no abortion” clause that affects U.S humanitarian aid for girls and women involved in conflict. - [The Perils of the Inaccessibility to Reproductive Healthcare in Eastern Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-perils-of-the-inaccessibility-to-reproductive-healthcare-in-eastern-burma/) - A woman should never have to resort to using a fishing hook or dangerous medications as the only feasible options to terminating a pregnancy. Yet these dangerous tactics remain pandemic in eastern Myanmar where inaccessibility to proper healthcare and safe abortions threatens the livelihood of thousands of women. A recent report by Ibis Reproductive Health highlights the dire state that women on the Thai-Myanmar border are in. The fact that so many women in Myanmar turn to these fatal and unsafe method of pregnancy termination underscore the need for safe abortions. - [Contradictions and Empty Gestures – USAID’s New Policy on Gender Equality](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/contradictions-and-empty-guestures-usaid-s-new-policy-on-gender-equality/) - According to the United States Agency of International Development’s new Gender Equality and Female Empowerment Policy, “Gender equality and female empowerment are …fundamental for the realization of human rights.” This policy directing USAID aims to: Reduce gender disparities in access to resources and opportunities, reduce gender-based violence and mitigate its harmful effects on individuals and communities and increase capabilities of women and girls to realize their rights, determine their life outcomes. Certainly these are lofty and noble goals. Yet, is USAID making an empty gesture? - [Malawi Upholds International Law for the Sake of Economic Interests](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/malawi-upholds-international-law-for-the-sake-of-economic-interests/) - Under the leadership of newly appointed president Joyce Banda, Malawi has refused to host the upcoming African Union summit due to its unwillingness to condone the ongoing impunity of Sudanese leader Omar al-Bashir, who is wanted by the International Criminal Court on charges of genocide, war crimes, and human rights atrocities committed in Darfur under his command. Although an ICC arrest warrant has been out for Bashir since 2010, he has repeatedly attended meetings and summits in a number of African countries over the past two years, including in Kenya, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Djibouti and Chad. Even the former Malawian president Bingu wa Mutharika welcomed Bashir at a regional economic summit last year. As the ICC has no law enforcement mechanism of its own, it relies on the local officials of member nations to apprehend individuals accused of crimes by the Court. - [Children of War](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/children-of-war/) - The conversation about the importance of providing abortion services to victims of rape in armed conflicts would be incomplete without looking at the impact on children born to rape victims. The international community has already recognized forced pregnancy as a crime under the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) but it has a limited application since it requires all three elements of the crime to be satisfied. Article 7, paragraph 2 (f) requires–(1) unlawful confinement of a woman (2) forcibly made pregnant (3) with the intent of carrying out other grave violations of the international law. It is unclear what exactly falls under other grave violations of international law and means that women who were forcibly made pregnant but escaped or forcibly made pregnant without the requisite intent are not protected under the Statute. - [Syria to reconsider its abortion law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/syria-to-reconsider-its-abortion-law/) - Current Syrian law only allows abortion to save woman’s life making abortion in all other circumstances including illegal. Penalty for performing an abortion with woman’s consent is one to three years imprisonment, and penalty for a woman who consented to abortion is six months to three years imprisonment but can be reduced if abortion is done to save woman’s honor. Syria is officially a secular state with the vast majority of its population practicing Islam but its abortion restrictions are harsh even for the Islamic world. - [The US Leads in ICRC Aid Donations, but Restricts Equal Rights for Aid Recipients](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-us-leads-in-icrc-aid-donations-but-restricts-equal-rights-for-aid-recipients/) - The United States strives to be a leader among the nations in terms of equality and fairness. However, one area that starkly contrasts that desire is the US policy regarding how to use the funds it donates to humanitarian aid. The United States is the largest contributor of humanitarian aid to the ICRC. Along with its donation of over 240 million Swiss Francs, the US has instructed that its aid may not be used to fund abortions under any circumstances. - [Continued Violence in Myanmar’s Rakhine State Demands Greater Attention from International Community](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/continued-violence-in-burma-s-rakhine-state-demands-greater-attention-from-international-community/) - Ethnic and religious violence continues to flare in the Rakhine (formerly Arakan) State of western Myanmar after an incident last month in which a local woman was raped by three men, allegedly of Rohingya minority. The Rohingya are a largely Muslim ethnic group that lives mainly along the border between Myanmar and Bangladesh. They are not recognized by the Burmese military government as citizens in Burma, nor have they been permitted to obtain citizenship in Bangladesh. According to United Nations estimates, there are approximately 800,000 Rohingya living in Myanmar, many of whose families have lived in the country for generations. An estimated 300,000 currently live in Bangladesh. The Burmese refer to Rohingya as “Bengalis,” illustrating the widespread perception of the Rohingya people as unwelcome foreigners in Myanmar. Nor have members of the minority received much support from their supposed country of origin. Boats of Rohingya refugees seeking asylum in Bangladesh are being turned away by government authorities, who have effectively closed their border to refugees fleeing persecution in Myanmar. - [Disappointment at Rio+20 for Women](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/disappointment-at-rio-20-for-women/) - The outcome of the Rio+20 summit failed women everywhere. Language regarding reproductive rights and gender equality was dropped from the draft agreement, representing a significant step backwards from earlier agreements. Going into the summit, the draft document included specific language ensuring reproductive rights and gender equality. A handful of oppressive regimes opposed this language and the Holy See led the opposition in an influential campaign that insisted on equating women’s reproductive rights with abortion. In reality, reproductive rights are about a great deal more than abortion, but unfortunately, the Holy See was able to assert enough pressure to succeed in getting the language removed from the agreement, leaving behind only vague references to reproductive health. - [Women Empowerment, Sustainable Development, and the Rio+20 Summit](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/women-empowerment-sustainable-development-and-the-rio-20-summit/) - The Rio Summit was designed as a milestone in the renewed discussions focused on the environment and moving towards a more sustainable and equal world. The Summit was described as trying to shape, “how we can reduce poverty, advance social equity and ensure environmental protection on an ever more crowded planet to get to the future we want.” In order for the Summit to have effectively discussed how to advance towards these objectives there were seven priority areas which had been identified to further guide discussions in a positive manner. These priority areas include: “decent jobs, energy, sustainable cities, food security and sustainable agriculture, water, oceans and disaster readiness.” However, there are a few things missing from the above “priority areas” which remain essential to the progression of our planet towards a global reduction in poverty while improving our social equity and global environmental protection clauses: the empowerment of women and family-planning. - [The International Criminal Court (ICC) Marks its 10th Anniversary](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-international-criminal-court-icc-marks-its-10th-anniversary/) - July 1, 2012 marked the International Criminal Court’s 10th anniversary. The ICC was established by the Rome Statute which came into effect in 2002, creating the first permanent international court in history. Ten years later, critics and supporters alike are assessing the progress of the Court in achieving its goals of bringing to justice those responsible for the most atrocious human rights violations. - [How can international humanitarian law bind non-state actors?](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/how-can-international-humanitarian-law-bind-non-state-actors/) - IHL applies to all the signatory States of the Geneva Conventions of 1949 and their Additional Protocols of 1977 but it also binds non-state actors: private citizens, armed groups, national liberation movements, and international organizations. It has been established that since IHL provides rights and special protections to private citizens in conflict, it also confers obligations, as demonstrated by the Nuremberg trials, international tribunals, or recent ICC decision to sentence Congolese warlord Thomas Lubanga to 14 years for using child soldiers and forcing them to commit atrocities. Several instruments also create IHL obligations on part of non-government armed or rebel groups – Common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions, the Second Additional Protocol of 1977, and Article 8 paragraph 2 of the Statue of the International Criminal Court (“ICC”), whereas the First Additional Protocol applies to national liberation movements. And while there is no specific legal provision that binds international organizations under international humanitarian law, the ICC specifically stated that “an international organization is a subject of international law and, as such, is bound by all the obligations deriving from the general rules of international law.” - [“The Invisible War” Between Women and the US Government](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-invisible-war-between-women-and-the-us-government/) - “The Invisible War”, a film delving into the injustices faced by women in the military specifically related to sexual assault, has taken the country by storm both politically and socially. The film, which premiered at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, thoughtfully connects U.S. government compiled statistics and the real stories of women and men who were the victims of sexual assault while serving in the military. The film aims to address many issues which include: corruption within the military justice system, impunity for high-ranking military officials, outdated legislation for prosecuting rape in the military “court martial” system, failure of “rape prevention” campaigns implemented in the military, and many others. The film is well put together and evokes quite a few negative emotions towards our government for allowing such an obvious problem to go unsolved, but likely more disturbing, practically unaddressed. - [The ICC Delivers its First Sentence: Sexual Violence Noticeably Missing from Congolese Warlord’s Conviction and Sentencing](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-icc-delivers-its-first-sentence-sexual-violence-noticeably-missing-from-congolese-warlord-s-conviction-and-sentencing/) - On July 10, just 10 days after its 10th anniversary, the International Criminal Court (ICC) delivered its first sentence. The ICC sentenced Thomas Lubanga, a Congolese militia leader, to 14 years in prison for the recruitment and use of child soldiers as a part of his rebel army, the Union of Congolese Patriots, from 2002-2003. Throughout that time, Lubanga and his army abducted, trained and used children to terrorize and kill villagers in the Ituri region of the DRC. While the justices clearly agreed that Lubanga deserved to be sentenced, one of the three judges, Elizabeth Odio Benito of Costa Rica, wrote a dissenting opinion saying that the sentence had been too lenient. Judge Benito suggested that the sentence should have been longer so as to properly reflect the extent of damage done to the child soldiers and their families. - [30th Anniversary of the CEDAW Committee](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/30th-anniversary-of-the-cedaw-committee/) - On July 9, the 52nd session of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women began at UN headquarters in New York. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Committee, which was established in 1982 as a means of ensuring compliance with the articles of the Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). CEDAW was adopted by the UN General Assembly in 1979 and remains one of the most important documents outlining the rights of women around the world. - [The critical connection between maternal mortality and unsafe abortions](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-critical-connection-between-maternal-mortality-and-unsafe-abortions/) - With the 2015 target of the Millennium Development Goals approaching, the United Nations recently issued a report detailing the progress made on each goal. While some goals have made major gains and will reach their targets by 2015, “Goal 5: Improve maternal health”, is not seeing the gains other goals have made. The stated target of Goal 5 was to “reduce by three quarters, between 1990 and 2015, the maternal mortality ratio”. Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia account for most of the maternal mortality cases. - [When Times Get Tough, Women’s Rights Shouldn’t Suffer](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/when-times-get-tough-women-s-rights-shouldn-t-suffer/) - Hard times happen. They can happen anytime and anywhere. They can happen on a scale as small as a community or family or as large as an entire region or country. The causes range from economic crises to armed conflicts and everything in between. In fact, the one thing that seems to be universal about hard times is that they lead to less respect for women’s rights. - [Will the UN Conference on the Arms Trade Treaty Actually Result in a Treaty?](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/will-the-un-conference-on-the-arms-trade-treaty-actually-result-in-a-treaty/) - The UN Conference on the Arms Trade Treaty (July 2-27) will conclude this week in New York, and member states and NGOs are scrambling to include last-minute changes and amendments to the document before the final is submitted to a vote by member states. The Treaty itself has taken years to draft and includes input from civil society groups as well as governments and intergovernmental organizations. The push for such an agreement was initiated by NGO’s and civil society groups concerned with the proliferation of weapons and the role that arms producers play in perpetuating armed conflicts in some of the poorest nations in the world. The fact that the Conference is taking place at all is a testament to the hard work and dedication not of governments or politicians, but of groups representing individuals and civilians who suffer most from the unmitigated international weapons trade. - [CEDAW Review Showcases States Parties’ Reluctance to Fully Disclose Shortcomings in Abortion Policies and the Subsequent Repercussions](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/cedaw-review-showcases-state-parties-reluctance-to-fully-disclose-shortcomings-in-abortion-policies-and-the-subsequent-repercussions/) - July 9, 2012 began the 52nd Session of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women. This session, which continues for three weeks, includes reviews of the reports submitted by several countries that are up for review. Each country that is a party to the Convention must submit periodic reports as an accountability measure detailing how they are complying with the requirements of the Convention, along with progress and updates relevant to the Convention. Upon reviewing each country’s submission, the Committee is then able to question the country regarding its report, and make general recommendations. While the reports are intended to detail all areas of the country that pertain to the Convention, there are often gaps in information or areas that are not given the same degree of focus as others. Proposing questions to the country’s delegation allows the Committee to dig deeper to find out that missing information, or reasons as to why it was not included in the first place, as well as to challenge any areas where the country does not appear to be meeting the standards required by the Convention. - [Think Republican Senate candidate Todd Akin’s remarks on “legitimate rape” went too far?](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/think-republican-senate-candidate-todd-akin-s-remarks-on-legitimate-rape-went-too-far/) - Akin’s statements are particularly shocking as they ignore the fact that rape is routinely used as a weapon of war in areas of armed conflict, particularly in areas of ethnic conflicts as a way to redefine ethnic composition, as in Darfur or Rwanda. - [Todd Akin Redux! – Rep. Rick Berg Supports Prison for Rape Victims Choosing Abortion](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/todd-akin-redux-rep-rick-berg-supports-prison-for-rape-victims-choosing-abortion/) - Hot on the heels of Rep. Todd Akin’s “legitimate rape” firestorm, yet another senatorial candidate has taken an extreme and inhumane stance on a rape victim’s right to choose. In 2007, Rep. Berg (R-ND) voted in favor of a bill that would criminalize abortion, even in cases of rape. The North Dakota penal code knows four categories of felony, ranging from AA to C with AA carrying the severest punishment of a life sentence. It is telling that the bill Berg voted for lists abortion as Class AA “crime”. Horrifically enough, sexual crime classifies as category B offense. In essence, the bill results is a penal system that punishes the victim and not the perpetrator. - [DNC: Rhetoric vs. Action](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/dnc-rhetoric-vs-action/) - From the Wall Street Journal to CNN, everybody feels Democrats at the DNC have been relentless about women’s right to make their own choices. According to Michelle Obama, the president believes women “are more than capable of making our own choices about our bodies”. In the words of Nancy Pelosi, a vote for President Obama is “a vote for women’s rights”. Deval Patrick would keep the government out of a woman’s decision whether to keep an unwanted pregnancy. Obama himself says Washington politicians “should not control women’s health care choices”. Why then does America’s government, through the the policies of USAID, deny the right to an abortion for girls and women systematically raped in conflict areas like the Congo, Burma and the Sudan? Join the GJC’s August 12 campaign and urge president Obama to lift the abortion ban. - [Rep. Roscoe Bartlett Supports False Claim of Nearly Nonexistent Pregnancy Rates Resulting From Rape](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/rep-roscoe-bartlett-supports-false-claim-of-nearly-nonexistent-pregnancy-rates-resulting-from-rape/) - Once again, we are left speechless by the extreme rhetoric used to describe rape victims. Rep. Roscoe Bartlett (R-MD) added vitriolic fuel to the controversy sparked by Rep. Todd Akin’s comments regarding pregnancy rates resulting from “legitimate rape.” In addition to the offensive attempt to distinguish acts of rape – rape is rape; their claim of nearly nonexistent pregnancy rates resulting from rape is scientifically entirely false. - [As Aung San Suu Kyi Visits US, International Law Violations in Burma/Myanmar Constitution are Highlighted](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/as-aung-san-suu-kyi-visits-us-international-law-violations-in-burma-constitution-are-highlighted/) - Burmese democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi’s is in Washington DC today to received the Congressional Gold Medal. She will also be meeting with President Barack Obama. This is a proud moment for the Burmese community and for the Global Justice Center, which has worked tirelessly on democracy issues in Burma. However, we also recognize that Burma’s transition to democracy is far from complete. A major obstacle continues to be the country’s constitution, which entrenches military influence over Burma’s civilian government. Daw Suu Kyi said herself that amending the constitution must be a top priority, and we agree with her. The Global Justice Center calls for the international community to challenge the constitution as a violation of fundamental international law—including the UN Charter. - [Global Day of Action: Help GJC fight for safe abortion access for girls & women raped in war](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/global-day-of-action-help-gjc-fight-for-safe-abortion-access-for-girls-women-raped-in-war/) - For over two decades, women’s rights organizations in Latin America have mobilized around September 28th, which is also the day slavery was abolished in Brazil. Today, the Global Justice Center joins the Women’s Global Network for Reproduction Rights, who have declared September 28th Global Day of Action for Access to Safe and Legal Abortion. As part of our August 12th Campaign, GJC fights for full medical rights for girls and women raped in war, including access to safe abortions. We urge President Obama to lift the blanket abortion on US humanitarian aid that denies a girl or woman raped in war the option of an abortion, even in life/threatening situations. - [One Billion Rising: GJC Rises Against Rape as a Weapon of War](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/one-billion-rising-gjc-rises-against-rape-as-a-weapon-of-war/) - A primary focus of the GJC’s work against sexualized violence is our Rape as a Weapon of War Project. Raping girls and women to accomplish military objectives, including genocide, is used more than any other unlawful weapon of war. Yet, it is routinely ignored and overlooked, despite the staggering number of girls and women subject to this brutality daily in conflict zones around the world. Although rape is the most powerful and cost effective weapon being used in armed conflict today, no state has been held accountable for use of rape as an illegal weapon of war. - [CSW 57: Commission on the Status of Women](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/csw-57-commission-on-the-status-of-women/) - This month is International Women’s Month! We are joining several groups tomorrow, March 7, at 12pmET to discuss abortion coverage restrictions and the consequences that it has on women. Follow #hydehurts and #helmshurts on twitter and join us in being a voice for many women around the world who are unable to speak out! - [CSW 57: The Gap between Image and Reality](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/csw-57-the-gap-between-image-and-reality/) - The 57th session of the Commission of the Status of Women (CSW) is over and the agreed conclusions have been adopted. Some delegations made reservations but did not block the adoption of the final draft. Every year, the CSW session also serves as a forum for UN member states to do a bit of PR for themselves. Words like “committed,” “dedicated,” “acknowledge,” and “affirm” are heard often and most countries have an interest to show the world how they are leaders when it comes to furthering women’s rights. However, all too often, these statements stand in stark contrast with a country’s foreign policy. The United States is one example. - [Irish Abortion Debate Further Ignites Tensions Over Women’s Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/irish-abortion-debate-further-ignites-tensions-over-women-s-rights/) - A recent controversial death in Ireland has sparked worldwide debate regarding abortion. Savita Halappanavar, a young woman suffering from a potentially life-threatening miscarriage, was denied a life-saving abortion due to Ireland’s restrictive abortion laws. According to reports by Mr. Halappanavar, Savita was told told that an abortion could not be performed because “Ireland is a Catholic country”. The couple had also been informed that the fetus had no chance of survival, but that an abortion could not take place until the fetal heartbeat had disappeared. Oddly, Ireland’s constitution itself states that abortion is legal, even if there is a fetal heartbeat, if there is a “real and substantial risk” to the life of the woman. This condition was clearly present in this case, as Ms. Halappanavar was pronounced dead only a week later. The fetus was eventually removed, but by then it was too late, causing Ms. Halappanavar to die from sepsis (infection of the blood). The problematic wording of the constitution’s requirement of “real and substantial risk” to the mother’s life clearly allows a great deal of subjectivity and discretionary action on the part of the physician. - [Lessons from Beatriz: El Salvador & the Denial of Life-Saving Abortions Worldwide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/lessons-from-beatriz-el-salvador-the-denial-of-life-saving-abortions-worldwide/) - Beatriz is a 22-year-old Salvadoran woman who was recently denied the right to an abortion during her high-risk and potentially fatal pregnancy. Her court case has captured international attention, bringing to light the staunch anti-abortion policies of El Salvador and in other areas of Latin America, and around the world, even in life-threatening circumstances. - [Legal Victory in Kenya Can Serve as Model to Fight Impunity in Burma/Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/legal-victory-in-kenya-can-serve-as-model-to-fight-impunity-in-burma/) - Girls and women in Kenya recently made history when the High Court of Kenya delivered a favorable outcome to a constitutional challenge in which 160 girls between the ages of 3 and 17 sued the Kenyan government for failing to protect them from being raped. The girls brought the action under Section 22(1) of the Kenyan constitution, which provides that “Every person has the right to institute court proceedings claiming that a right or fundamental freedom in the Bill of Rights has been denied, violated or infringed, or is threatened.” The Kenyan criminal code contains laws that protect against rape, however they are not enforced and as a result rape has been on the rise. The petitioners accused the police of “neglect, omission, refusal and/or failure…to conduct prompt, effective, proper and professional investigations” into sexual violence complaints. - [Women in Congress Take On Sexual Assault in the Military](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/women-in-the-legislature-take-on-sexual-assault-in-the-military/) - The Global Justice Center applauds the efforts of women in Congress that are taking action against the culture of sexual assault that is constantly concealed by the US military. When it is more likely that a female soldier in Iraq and Afghanistan will be raped by a fellow service member than killed in the line of enemy fire, we must acknowledge that there is a serious problem that is causing emotional and physical harm to thousands of women (and men). The women bravely sacrificing for our country deserve to serve without fear of sexual assault, and action must be taken in order to ensure this. - [Women Must be Included in Drafting Libya Constitution](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/women-must-be-included-in-drafting-libya-constitution/) - On May 29, 2013, the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) called for the active participation of women in the drafting of Libya’s constitution-drafting. The statement stresses the significant role Libyan women played in the February Revolution and the continued role they play in public life. The impact women had on the revolution is certainly true, but, we are missing a decisive point – that the participation of women in the drafting process (as well as in the political process in general) is a legal obligation under international law. - [A Step Forward in Libya: Treating Rape as a War Crime](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/a-step-forward-in-libya-treating-rape-as-a-war-crime/) - As Libya recovers from the violent Arab Spring and begins to rebuild its government and country, a bill that would treat rape during armed conflict as a war crime is being drafted. As the law currently stands, rape is already a crime under Libyan law. Convicted rapists face around 10 years in jail. Under the new specialized law, convicted rapists in armed conflict could potentially face a life sentence in prison. Additionally, legislators have agreed that this new law should require compensation from the state to victims of sexual violence. The amount of compensation would be determined on a case-by-case basis. - [The Unspoken Revolution in Tahrir Square](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-unspoken-revolution-in-tahrir-square/) - Waves of people have spilled into the city centers of Egypt, arms stretched high with red, white and green flags, clutching posters with one demand: “ar7l” or “leave.” Reminiscent of the 2011 Arab Spring, these recent protests against Egyptian President Mohammed Morsi are the epitome of political dissent and powerful activism. However, this freedom of expression does not extend to all Egyptians. Women wishing to exercise their rights by joining political protests are frequently subjected to violent sexual assault and harassment. - [11-Year Old Rape Victim Betrayed by Chilean Government](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/like-a-doll-brave-11-year-old-rape-victim-betrayed-by-chilean-government/) - Chile is one of six countries in the world that has an absolute national abortion ban, with no exception even for life, rape or incest. The case of Beatriz in El Salvador similarly sparked an international debate over abortion bans in a Latin American country. Part of our human rights work at Global Justice Center is to combat medical discrimination against women. Denial of an abortion in life-threatening cases or in cases of rape is cruel and inhumane, and a form of torture to girls and women. In life-threatening cases, it denies a woman’s essential right to life. Therefore, the Global Justice Center wrote and sent a letter to the Chilean Minister of Health, Jaime Mañalich Muxi, urging the Chilean government to allow doctors to perform a therapeutic and life-saving abortion on the 11-year old. - [August 12th Marks Anniversary of U.S. Signing of the Geneva Conventions – Now It’s Time for President Obama to Fulfill this Pledge for Girls & Women Raped in War](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/august-12th-marks-anniversary-of-u-s-signing-of-the-geneva-conventions-now-it-s-time-for-president-obama-to-fulfill-this-pledge-for-girls-women-raped-in-war/) - On August 12, 1949, the United States signed the Geneva Conventions. Yet, 64 years later we are not living up to our pledge. We provide life-saving medical care to the those “wounded and sick” in war – unless they are young girls and women impregnated through war rape. That is why, on August 12, 2011, the Global Justice Center launched its August 12th Campaign to end systemic discrimination against girls and women raped and impregnated in armed conflict, who are routinely denied access to safe abortions, even in lifesaving situations and when they’ve been the victim of brutal rape. - [Bringing Sudan President Omar al-Bashir to Justice](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/bringing-pres-al-bashir-to-justice/) - Controversy erupted on Tuesday, September 17th, when US officials confirmed that Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir submitted a Visa request to attend the United Nations General Assembly this month. President al-Bashir announced this Sunday that he does, indeed, have plans to travel to the US and has already booked a New York hotel, although the US has not yet stated whether or not he would be granted a visa. As President of Sudan, Omar al-Bashir is an accused war criminal. He has two warrants of arrest for genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity, issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in March 2009 and July 2010. - [Room for Improvement: Looking back at the 2011 Egyptian Protests](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/room-for-improvement-looking-back-at-the-2011-egyptian-protests/) - In the next few weeks, Egypt needs to keep in mind gender equality and equal participation in government because without it a just and democratic system will never be reached. GJC aims to increase women’s roles in governments internationally. As our logo demonstrates, women make up 51% of the world’s population, but the global average for women in government is only 19.7%. We are working to close this gap, because only then will we have true representative democracy. Women must be allowed to have an equal and respected role in government changes in Egypt. While we wait to see when and if Egypt will hold democratic elections again, one thing is clear: The party that ultimately gains power in Egypt must make women’s rights a priority. - [Justice in Syria](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/justice-in-syria/) - During yesterday’s Senate hearing, Secretary of State John Kerry made the case that President Bashar al-Assad’s regime has committed egregious human rights violations, including the violation of one of the most important norms of international law: the ban of using weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) against civilians. President Obama emphasized that potential US strikes is about protecting this fundamental international norm, which is threatened by the Syrian government’s alleged gassing of its own people. Yet, Syria has long been in a state of unrest – and the Global Justice Center takes a look a few other areas in which Syria is violating international law, particularly when it comes to equal protection and rights for women. - [Joint letter re: restrictions on communication, fencing and COVID-19 in Cox's Bazar District Rohingya refugee camps](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/joint-letter-re-restrictions-on-communication-fencing-and-covid-19-in-cox-s-bazar-district-rohingya-refugee-camps/) - We, the 50 undersigned organizations, have welcomed the Bangladesh government’s efforts to host the Rohingya refugees who were forced to flee atrocities perpetrated by the Myanmar Army. We also commend the Bangladesh Government for working closely with the humanitarian community on COVID-19 preparedness and response in Cox’s Bazar District, including efforts to establish isolation and treatment facilities. - [FY 21 Healthy Youth Sign on Letter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/fy-21-healthy-youth-sign-on-letter/) - The undersigned 109 organizations, committed to supporting the sexual and reproductive health and rights of young people, request your support for fiscal year (FY) 2021 funding that helps to ensure the health of our nation’s youth. We urge you to protect the integrity of the Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program (TPPP) and increase support for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) school-based HIV and STI prevention efforts. We also encourage the elimination of the abstinence-only “sexual risk avoidance” competitive grant program. - [Complaint - Unalienable Rights Lawsuit](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/complaint-unalienable-rights-lawsuit/) - A coalition of international human rights organizations sued the Trump administration for creating and operating the State Department's Commission on Unalienable Rights in violation of the Federal Advisory Committee Act. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo unlawfully created the Commission in July 2019. Since then it has been working behind closed doors to articulate a definition - [Recommendation for the FY 2021 State-Foreign Operations Bill: Deletion of the reiterations of the Helms Amendment](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/recommendation-for-the-fy-2021-state-foreign-operations-bill-deletion-of-the-reiterations-of-the-helms-amendment/) - Endorsing organizations respectfully request that the House Appropriations Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs remove the harmful and redundant reiterations of the Helms Amendment in the FY 2021 appropriations bill. - [Letter to UN Security Council members regarding Myanmar’s Independent Commission of Enquiry and the Provisional Measures ordered by the International Court of Justice](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/letter-to-un-security-council-members-regarding-myanmar-s-independent-commission-of-enquiry-and-the-provisional-measures-ordered-by-the-international-court-of-justice/) - The ICOE’s independence and impartiality have been seriously undermined by its reliance on the Office of the President of Myanmar for financial and technical support, as well as by the composition of the Commission itself, which includes at least one official directly implicated in the bulldozing of Rohingya villages damaged during the 2017 crisis in Rakhine State. - [Myanmar’s Independent Commission of Enquiry: Structural Issues and Flawed Findings](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/myanmar-s-independent-commission-of-enquiry-structural-issues-and-flawed-findings/) - On January 20, 2020, Myanmar’s Independent Commission of Enquiry (“ICOE”) submitted its final report to Myanmar’s government. The report, which was initially due on July 30, 2019, was instead submitted three days before the International Court of Justice handed down its unanimous decision on provisional measures in The Gambia v. Myanmar. With the mandate to “investigate the allegations of human rights violations and related issues, following the terrorist attacks by ARSA,” Myanmar has relied on the work of the ICOE since its creation to object to international efforts, including those of the UN Security Council, to ensure accountability for the crimes against the Rohingya. - [Illegal US Abortion Restrictions: Key Points for the Universal Periodic Review of the United States](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/illegal-us-abortion-restrictions-key-points-for-the-universal-periodic-review-of-the-united-states/) - During the United States’ (US) second-cycle Universal Periodic Review (UPR), multiple states made recommendations concerning US abortion restrictions on foreign assistance, including the Helms Amendment. In addition to donor and recipient countries, these restrictions have also been the subject of concern for human rights bodies and experts. The US has failed to take any action on these state recommendations; in fact, in 2017 the Trump administration further entrenched and expanded the scope of these policies with the reinstatement of the Global Gag Rule (GGR). - [Burma/Myanmar Refuses to Relinquish Rape as Weapon of War](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/burma-refuses-to-relinquish-rape-as-weapon-of-war/) - The international community, eager to praise these reforms, has neglected to call Burma out on its sexualized violence problem, ignoring the ingrained culture of impunity that has allowed sexualized violence to flourish for decades. The military regime that came to power in a 1962 coup has used rape, particularly against women in the ethnic and border regions, as a way to quell opposition movements and retain control. A weapon of war, the practice is typically employed to keep communities compliant by sowing fear and humiliation and punishing and interrogating those who would support opposition groups. Sadly, the Burmese military junta’s campaign of widespread and systematic sexual violence continues unabated today. - [Abortion Ban Restricts Peace-Building Efforts in Central African Republic](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/abortion-ban-restricts-peace-building-efforts-in-central-african-republic/) - On October 10, 2013, the United Nations Security Council unanimously approved a resolution aimed at stabilizing the Central African Republic. The Council “reinforced and updated” the mandate of the UN Integrated Peacebuilding Office in the Central African Republic (BINUCA) while also calling for a political resolution to the conflict. The resolution singled out the rebel Séléka fighters as being responsible for what it called “extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests and detention, torture, sexual violence against women and children, rape, recruitment and use of children and attacks against civilians.” In the Central African Republic, coups and violent seizures of power have outnumbered fair elections since independence. Since the March 2013 coup that outsed President François Bozizé, Séléka fighters have held unchecked positions of power in the region – looting, abducting, raping and killing with impunity. - [First Things First: Constitutional Reform in Burma/Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/first-things-first-constitutional-reform-in-burma/) - On October 23, UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights, Tomas Ojea Quintana, released the latest report on the Situation on Human Rights in Myanmar for the General Assembly’s sixty-eighth session. The report had been highly anticipated by civil society groups who are concerned with growing tensions in the turbulent nation. - [The Spotlight on Burma/Myanmar: Calling for the Elimination of Sexual Violence and Inclusion of Women in Peace Talks](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/the-spotlight-on-burma-calling-for-the-elimination-sexual-violence-and-inclusion-of-women-in-peace-talks/) - On Thursday, April 24th, the Global Justice Center, along with the Nobel Women’s Initiative, Amnesty International, and the NGO Working Group on Women, Peace, and Security, hosted a side event to the Security Council’s Open Debate on Conflict Related Sexual Violence at the United Nations with the intention of shedding light onto the continued plague of sexualized violence in Burma. The panel consisted of special guest speaker, Naw K’nyaw Paw who is the Secretary of the Karen Women’s Organization and a grassroots activist working on empowering women and assisting sexual violence survivors in Burma; H.E. Zainab Bangura, the Special Representative to the UN Secretary General on Sexual Violence in Conflict; and H.E. David Donoghue, the Permanent Representative of Ireland to the United Nations. This standing room only event highlighted the ongoing dangers and abuses that the women and girls of Burma face at the hands of the Burmese military and strengthened the call for international action as well as the inclusion of women in the peace process. - [Justice for Girls in Nigeria](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/justice-for-girls-in-nigeria/) - Every day, girls in Nigeria are at risk of being abducted solely because they dared to go to school. Boko Haram, an extremist group linked to Al Qaeda, has been terrorizing the Nigerian population for over a year and, as part of this assault on the population, has been abducting young schoolgirls at random. In a disturbing video released this week, the purported leader of Boko Haram detailed his plan to continue to kidnap these girls and then sell them in the markets. The kidnapped girls, some as young as 12 years old, will be sold into sex slavery or as slave laborers. The sale of these girls will serve to finance the organization. These acts of kidnapping are an expression of the group’s opposition to the education of women and girls which they claim is based on a particular interpretation of Sharia law. These crimes also are a way to weaken and intimidate communities and maintain control over the Nigerian people through intimidation. As of now, over 270 girls have been abducted by the group, their whereabouts unknown, their families left with questions and fear. - [Women’s Bodies, Today’s Battleground: A Personal Story of Courage from the Global Summit to End Sexual Violence in Conflict](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/women-s-bodies-today-s-battleground-a-personal-story-of-courage-from-the-global-summit-to-end-sexual-violence-in-conflict/) - Jocie Philistin is sitting in the conference room of the Global Justice Center before catching a flight to London, where she will represent the most critical voice at the UK Global Summit to End Sexual Violence in Conflict: women working on the ground in conflict zones. She is thousands of miles away from her home in Haiti, where she works as a human rights advocate for Haitian survivors of sexual violence. - [Fiona Sampson, the Equality Effect and the Global Summit to End Sexual Violence in Conflict: Translating Rhetoric to Action](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/fiona-sampson-the-equality-effect-and-the-global-summit-to-end-sexual-violence-in-conflict-translating-rhetoric-to-action/) - The 2014 UK Global Summit to End Sexual Violence in Conflict was encouraging. It is the first of its kind to focus exclusively on ways governments and advocates can work together to effectively stop the endemic use of sexual violence against women in war. The Global Justice Center hosted two events at the Summit – a panel on creative legal strategies to enforce international mandates on women, peace, and security; and a peace negotiation simulation highlighting the difficulties in including women at the peace table in a meaningful way in transitional situations. - [How the Helms Amendment Hurts Women Raped in War](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/how-the-helms-amendment-hurts-women-raped-in-war/) - [Combatting Violence against Women in War is not just a Women’s Rights issue; it’s a Global Peace & Security issue](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/combatting-violence-against-women-in-war-is-not-just-a-women-s-rights-issue-it-s-a-global-peace-security-issue/) - In the past several weeks, the world has witnessed the deliberate targeting of women and girls as a political and military tactic by Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) terrorists. In Iraq and Syria, thousands women and girls, particularly from ethnic and religious minorities, have been kidnapped by ISIS terrorists. In Iraq, Yazidi women and girls are a primary target for ISIS, falling prey to horrific acts of sexual violence and brutality as ISIS advanced through northern Iraq. - [Women’s Piece of Peace: Security Council Debate on Women, Peace and Security](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/women-s-piece-of-peace-security-council-debate-on-women-peace-and-security/) - 2015 marks the 15th anniversary of the adoption of Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, which requires parties in a conflict to respect women’s rights and support their participation in peace negotiations and in post-conflict reconstruction. Yesterday the Security Council held its annual open debate under Argentina’s presidency calling upon UN Member States to implement - [Republican Congress Threatens Women Worldwide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/republicans-congress-threatens-women-worldwide/) - The United States should be increasing, not decreasing, its current investment of $610 million in funding to international family planning programs, which already prohibit the use of U.S. foreign aid to provide safe abortions “as a method of family planning.” The prohibition, introduced in 1973 as part of the Helms Amendment, does not define what constitutes “family planning,” yet Republican and Democratic administrations, including Mr. Obama’s, have treated it as a total ban on funding of abortion under any circumstance. As a result, help is denied to women and girls who are victims of rape or whose lives are threatened by carrying a pregnancy to term. - [Rape as a War Crime in South Sudan: Update](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/rape-as-a-war-crime-in-south-sudan-update/) - The African Union’s Commission of Inquiry has spent over a year investigating the human rights violations in South Sudan, calling for witness testimony and establishing a report to be presented to the Peace and Security Council. However, as recently as January 30th, the report was shelved and remains unpublished. Zainab Bangura, the UN’s envoy for sexual violence in conflict, stated that she’s “not witnessed a situation worse than South Sudan in her 30 years’ experience”. - [Sexual Violence, Focal Point of Beijing20](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/sexual-violence-focal-point-of-beijing20/) - Countries around the world have been coming under scrutiny, as it becomes apparent that even with some improvements in women’s rights, violence against women remains alarmingly prevalent. News stories have been inundated with multiple incidents of sexual violence in India, Iraq, Sudan, and the United States. While each country has its own unique narrative in terms of violence towards women; globally, more than one in three women will suffer physical violence and one in ten girls under 18 will be raped. Regardless of individual political or cultural circumstances, the protection and empowerment of women is a global issue. - [EngenderHealth's Letter to President Obama](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/engenderhealth-s-letter-to-president-obama/) - August 18, 2011 Letter sent to President Obama by EngenderHealth as a part of the GJC's "August 12th Campaign" asking that he issue an Executive Order lifting US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid. Download PDF - [International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict: Reminders of the Rohingya](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/international-day-for-the-elimination-of-sexual-violence-in-conflict-reminders-of-the-rohingya/) - By Katya Kolluri Tuesday, June 19, was the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict, proclaimed by the UN in order to raise awareness of various forms of sexual violence perpetrated against women, men, girls and boys, that is either directly or indirectly linked to a conflict. The effects of conflict-related sexual - [End Torture](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/end-torture/) - Today marks the 20th anniversary of the U.S. ratifying the UN Convention Against Torture. By formally accepting this treaty 20 years ago, the U.S. Government made a commitment to end the use of torture and inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. Yet to this day, the U.S. repeatedly fails to meet its commitments under the ## Pages - [Home](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/) - [Our Financials](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/about-gjc/our-financials/) - [Media Center](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/media-center/) - [Webinar Series - Conscience, Religion, & Belief in the Context of Abortion](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/webinar-series-conscience-religion-belief-in-the-context-of-abortion/) - Webinar 2 - Conscientious Objection in the U.S. Webinar 3 - Abortion Provision and Support as an Expression of Conscience, Religion, or Belief - [Our History](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/our-history/) - 2005 Founding of the Global Justice Center Trailblazing attorney and gender equality activist Janet Benshoof founds the Global Justice Center. GJC’s logo is designed to represent the inequality between the percentage of women in the world's population and their corresponding representation in governments worldwide. 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A collection of human rights organizations and international law experts published a - [Janet Benshoof Memorial Fund](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/janet-benshoof-fund/) - [Single event ux](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/single-event-ux/) - [About Us](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/about-gjc/) - [Our Founder](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/about-gjc/our-founder/) - [Our Team](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/our-team/) - [Op-Eds](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/media-center/op-eds/) - [Multimedia](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/media-center/multimedia/) - [Annual Reports](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/about-gjc/annual-report/) - [Terms and conditions](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/terms-and-conditions/) - Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. 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The prevalence of sexual and gender-based violence, often with no accountability, is a central barrier to gender equality. The Global Justice Center is dedicated to dismantling the patriarchy embedded in many legal systems and ensuring a gender inclusive and rights-based approach to justice and accountability. - [Fighting for Sexual and Reproductive Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/fighting-for-sexual-and-reproductive-rights/) - Sexual and reproductive health and rights are essential to gender equality. Everyone should be able to make their own decisions about their reproductive lives and sexuality—free from violence, coercion, and discrimination. For the past decade the Global Justice Center has been at the forefront of efforts to ensure access to these rights, and we will - [Does Your Organization Segregate US Funding from EU and Other Funding?](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/does-your-organization-segregate-funds-2/) - YES NO - [NO!](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/no-you-are-not-restricted-2/) - Is my organization barred from speaking about or providing abortion services under US abortion restrictions? NO! Your funding is not restricted by US abortion policy. Your organization can perform and discuss abortions. - [NO!](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/no-you-are-not-restricted/) - Is my organization barred from speaking about or providing abortion services under US abortion restrictions? NO! Your funding is not restricted by US abortion policy. Your organization can perform and discuss abortions. - [Is Your Organization Based in the US?](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/are-you-based-in-the-us-2/) - YES NO - [Does Your Organization Receive any Sub-Grants for US Global Health Assistance](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/does-your-organization-receive-any-sub-grants/) - YES NO - [YES. Your organization is restricted by Helms.](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/yes-you-are-restricted-by-helms/) - Is my organization barred from speaking about or providing abortion services under US abortion restrictions? YES. Your organization cannot discuss or perform abortions under the US Helms Amendment. - [YES. Your organization is gagged. (2)](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/yes-you-are-gagged-2/) - Is my organization barred from speaking about or providing abortion services under US abortion restrictions? YES. Your organization is gagged by the Global Gag Rule. - [YES. Your organization is gagged.](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/yes-you-are-gagged/) - Is my organization barred from speaking about or providing abortion services under US abortion restrictions? YES. Your organization is gagged by the Global Gag Rule. - [NO! You are not gagged.](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/no-for-your-non-us-funding/) - Is my organization barred from speaking about or providing abortion services under US abortion restrictions? NO! Your organization can discuss and perform abortions with your non-US funding. - [Does Your Organization Segregate US Funding from EU and Other Funding?](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/does-your-organization-segregate-funds/) - YES NO - [Is Your Organization Based in the US?](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/are-you-based-in-the-us/) - YES NO - [Do You Receive US Global Health Funding?](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/does-your-organization-receive-any-us-global-health-funding/) - YES NO - [Do the Helms Amendment and Global Gag Rule Impact Your Organization?](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/do-the-helms-amendment-and-global-gag-rule-impact-your-organization/) - Since the passage of Roe vs. Wade, the United States has been placing abortion restrictions on its foreign aid. These restrictions impact thousands of girls and women raped in armed conflict who are routinely denied access to safe abortions. Answer the following questions to find out if your organization is barred from speaking about or providing abortion - [Some Useful Links for You to Get Started](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/welcome-to-cloudways/) - It seems like you’re running a default WordPress website. Here are a few useful links to get you started: Migration How to use WordPress Migrator Plugin? Migrate WordPress from Siteground to Cloudways Migrate WordPress from GoDaddy to Cloudways General How do I take my website live from Cloudways? How to manage WordPress via WP-CLI on - [Contact Us](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/contact-us/) - Heather Bordner, Operations Assistant: hbordner@globaljusticecenter.net, ext 201 Phyu Phyu Sann, Senior Burma Researcher; Director of Operations: psann@globaljusticecenter.net, ext 208 Grant Shubin, Staff Attorney: gshubin@globaljusticecenter.net, ext 205 Susan De Maio, Director of Development: sdemaio@globaljusticecenter.net, ext 204 Akila Radhakrishnan, Legal Director: akila@globaljusticecenter.net, ext 203 Stephanie Olszewski, Communications Manager: solszewski@globaljusticecenter.net, ext 211 Zoe Eggleston, Executive and Research Assistant: - [What Success Looks Like for Women on the Ground](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/what-success-looks-like-for-women-on-the-ground/) - Yesterday in the inspiring and informative event, “What Success Looks Like on the Ground,” women leaders from Burma, Haiti, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo gathered to discuss their personal experiences in combating sexual violence in conflict. The panel was a side event to the United Nations’ Commission on the Status of Women (CSW). - [Board of Directors](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/board-of-directors/) - Renée Acosta Renée S. Acosta served as the President and CEO of Global Impact from 1993 – 2013 when she retired. During her tenure, Global Impact increased its annual revenue from $12 million to a high point of $142 million, and has raised more than $1.3 billion for charitable organizations, while maintaining overhead under four - [About Us](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/about-us/) - Advancing Gender Equality through a Human Rights Revolution The Global Justice Center was founded in 2005 to fill a critical need in the international human rights field. The success of the human rights revolution over the last 30 years has resulted in treaties and international human rights laws that need to move from paper to - [Michael Sandler Fund](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/michael-sandler-fund/) - "The time is always ripe to do right." ~Nelson Mandela Born and raised in South Africa, Michael Sandler was acutely aware of social injustice and the deep seeded devastation that widespread human rights violations leave in their wake. He made quiet and persistent contributions to making the world a better place. The founding of the - [GJC in the News](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/gjc-in-the-news/) - The Widgetkit Slideshow is the ultimate image and content slideshow for Joomla and WordPress. It's flexible, easy to customize and completely built with HTML5 and CSS3. Features Clean and very lightweight code 17 eye-catching transition effects Fully responsive including all effects Uses hardware accelerated CSS3 animations Supports HTML captions Swipe navigation on mobile devices Built - [Our Logo](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/our-logo/) - Our logo represents the inequality between the percentage of women in the world's population and their corresponding representation in governments worldwide. The right side is 51% gray, indicating the percentage of women in the world's population. The global average for women in government, however, is a mere 22.6%, illustrated by the percentage of gray on the - [Partner Organizations](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/partner-organizations/) - The Global Justice Center could not achieve its successes without its partners. Since its inception, the GJC has worked, in particular, with the Women's Alliance for a Democratic Iraq (WAFDI) and the Women's League of Burma (WLB) to provide counsel and education in international law to women activists and leaders. The GJC is a member - [Our Issues](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/our-issues/) - Phasellus a nulla risus. Nulla accumsan, neque eu varius lacinia, enim nisl imperdiet ante, eu dapibus lacus nunc rutrum velit. Nunc venenatis ut tortor vitae laoreet. Nulla sodales elit tortor, a ullamcorper erat ornare sollicitudin. Morbi ante nunc, tincidunt in aliquam a, interdum ut odio. Sed efficitur, diam ornare dapibus dapibus, tellus sem venenatis nisi, - [Mission](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/mission/) - The Global Justice Center (GJC) works for peace, justice, and security by enforcing international laws that protect human rights and promote gender equality. We promote "power, not pity" as we advocate a model for justice that embraces the following tenets: Gender parity in power and under the law is essential to global security, justice, and ## Press Releases - [Exposing Misogyny in the Handling of the ICC Prosecutor Sexual Misconduct Allegations](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/exposing-misogyny-in-the-handling-of-the-icc-prosecutor-sexual-misconduct-allegations/) - Developments over the past week in the handling of the allegations of sexual misconduct and retaliation against the International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor, Karim Khan, are deeply concerning. What should have been a confidential process has instead unfolded as a politicised spectacle, marked by leaks, strategic narratives, and visible signs of distress within the institution. Both public commentary and the selectively leaked findings of the ad hoc panel advising the Assembly of States Parties Bureau echo disturbingly familiar patterns seen in sexual harassment, misconduct, and assault cases worldwide: claims of a “witch hunt”, “honey trap,” or questions about why the complainant did not leave or speak up earlier. - [Liberia: Armed Break-in Shows Urgent Need to Protect Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/liberia-armed-break-in-shows-urgent-need-to-protect-rights/) - Armed men at 3 a.m. on February 20, 2026, raided the office of the Global Justice and Research Project (GJRP) in Liberia, the Center for Justice and Accountability, Civitas Maxima, Global Justice Center, Global Justice and Research Project and Human Rights Watch said today. The men, armed with a rifle and knives, attacked and assaulted a security guard and threatened Hassan Bility the director of the group, which works for accountability for crimes during Liberia’s civil wars. Liberian police have opened an investigation. - [Myanmar: Critical Hearings in Rohingya Genocide Case](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/myanmar-critical-hearings-in-rohingya-genocide-case/) - Gambia, Myanmar to Present Their Arguments Before World Court originally published by Human Rights Watch (The Hague) – International Court of Justice (ICJ) hearings in the Myanmar genocide case highlight the need for justice for the ethnic Rohingya, Burmese Rohingya Organisation UK, Global Justice Center, Human Rights Watch, Refugee Women for Peace and Justice, and Women’s Peace Network said today. Hearings - [Global Justice Center Statement on Conclusion of Sexual Misconduct Investigation into ICC Prosecutor](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/global-justice-center-statement-on-conclusion-of-sexual-misconduct-investigation-into-icc-prosecutor/) - The United Nations has completed its investigation into alleged sexual misconduct by International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor Karim Khan, according to the President of the Assembly of States Parties, the Court’s oversight body. GJC has followed with grave concern developments around the allegations, which illustrate how patriarchy and impunity continue to shape global institutions, even - [Global Justice Center and Gender Equality Network Call on the Government of Myanmar to Fulfill Its Obligations to End Discrimination against Women](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/global-justice-center-and-gender-equality-network-call-on-the-government-of-myanmar-to-fulfill-its-obligations-to-end-discrimination-against-women/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—July 1, 2016 [GENEVA] – On July 7th, Myanmar’s implementation of its obligations to ensure gender equality will be reviewed by the UN’s Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW Committee). Myanmar ratified the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) in 1997, but this will - [Trump Administration Defies Global Rights Review](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/trump-administration-defies-global-rights-review/) - The United States is trying to evade accountability for grave, ongoing human rights violations in the country, rights groups said today. On August 27, the U.S. State Department sent a letter to the Office of the High Commissioner on Human Rights stating that the Trump Administration will not participate in its upcoming Universal Periodic Review, - [No More Delays: International Community Must Act for Rohingya](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/no-more-delays-international-community-must-act-for-rohingya/) - Originally published by Asia Justice Coalition As we mark the eighth year since the 2017 Rohingya exodus from Rakhine State to Bangladesh during the Myanmar military’s so-called ‘clearance operations’, the deteriorating situation of the Rohingya in both Myanmar and Bangladesh warrants urgent, coordinated, and decisive interventions from the international community. In blatant breach of the - [Liberia: Renew Mandate to Establish War Crimes Court](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/liberia-renew-mandate-to-establish-war-crimes-court/) - originally published by Human Rights Watch (Monrovia) – Liberian President Joseph Boakai should follow through on his commitment to justice and human rights by renewing an executive order key to establishing a war crimes court to address accountability for civil war-era crimes in the country, six human rights groups said today. The order, signed on May 2, 2024, is - [Breakthrough for Crimes Against Humanity Treaty ](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/breakthrough-for-crimes-against-humanity-treaty/) - Resolution Sets Time-Bound Process for Adopting World’s First Stand-alone Treaty on Crimes Against Humanity The United Nations Sixth Committee today adopted by consensus a resolution to advance a draft treaty on crimes against humanity to negotiations. Once adopted by the General Assembly next month, states will negotiate the first stand-alone treaty that explicitly addresses state - [Global Justice Center Responds to the US Presidential Election](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/global-justice-center-responds-to-the-us-presidential-election/) - Donald Trump was elected president of the United States for a second term on Tuesday. Human rights experts have issued grave warnings about the potential for extreme rights abuses under his new administration. The Global Justice Center (GJC) mounted several challenges to President Trump during his first term. It sued the Trump administration in 2020 - [Human Rights Orgs Sue Sec. Pompeo for Unlawful Commission Designed to Redefine Human Rights, Undercut Universal Protections for Women, LGBTQI Individuals and Others](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/human-rights-orgs-sue-sec-pompeo-for-unlawful-commission-designed-to-redefine-human-rights-undercut-universal-protections-for-women-lgbtqi-individuals-and-others/) - Unalienable Rights Commission Intent on Privileging Religious Freedom Over Other Rights, Appears Set to Provide Trump Administration Roadmap to Deny Equal Rights for All Slanted Membership, Withheld Records and Closed Door Meetings Violate Federal Law New York, NY — Today, a coalition of international human rights organizations sued the Trump administration for creating and operating - [650+ Civil Society Organizations and Experts Urge Governments to Advance Draft Crimes Against Humanity Treaty to Negotiations](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/650-civil-society-organizations-and-experts-urge-governments-to-advance-draft-crimes-against-humanity-treaty-to-negotiations/) - Statement Circulated Ahead of UN Session on the Draft Treaty Human rights organizations based in Africa, the Middle East, Asia, the Americas, and Europe — as well as leading international law and human rights experts — today urged UN member states to advance the draft text for a crimes against humanity treaty to negotiations. This - [New Report Offers UN Investigations Guidance for Documenting Reproductive Violence](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/new-report-offers-un-investigations-guidance-for-documenting-reproductive-violence/) - Barriers, Opportunities to Investigating Reproductive Harms Revealed SEPTEMBER 30, 2024 — A new report published today by UN Women and the Global Justice Center (GJC) uncovers barriers and opportunities to the documentation of reproductive violence faced by UN-mandated mechanisms charged with investigating human rights violations and international crimes. The report, based on interviews conducted with - [Congresswoman Nikema Williams Introduces Resolution Declaring Abortion as a Human Right](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/congresswoman-nikema-williams-introduces-resolution-declaring-abortion-as-a-human-right/) - Reposted from the website of Congresswoman Nikema Williams WASHINGTON DC – Today, Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05) introduced a Congressional Resolution affirming reproductive freedom as a human right. According to the UN Committee on Human Rights, parties to the the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), including the United States, are obliged to protect reproductive freedom. Following - [Argentine Prosecutor Seeks Arrest Warrants For Rohingya Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/argentine-prosecutor-seeks-arrest-warrants-for-rohingya-genocide/) - Prosecutors in Argentina are seeking new arrest warrants as part of the universal jurisdiction case considering genocide of the Rohingya. The warrant applications include senior military and civilian leaders. Michelle Onello, senior legal advisor for the Global Justice Center, issued the following statement: "The Argentine prosecutor’s petition for twenty-five warrants for atrocities committed in Myanmar - [International Human Rights Organizations Challenge Idaho’s Abortion Ban at US Supreme Court](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/international-human-rights-organizations-challenge-idahos-abortion-ban-at-us-supreme-court/) - The Global Justice Center, Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and Ipas — in partnership with Foley Hoag LLP — today filed an amicus brief in Idaho vs. United States, the United States Supreme Court case considering the enforcement of Idaho’s near-total abortion ban. The brief argues that Idaho’s abortion law violates the human rights of - [US Supreme Court Reinstates Lower Court Ruling  Preventing Idaho from Denying Abortions in Emergency Situations](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/us-supreme-court-reinstates-lower-court-ruling-preventing-idaho-from-denying-abortions-in-emergency-situations/) - The United States Supreme Court today reinstated a lower court order allowing Idaho healthcare providers to provide emergency abortions to protect the health of pregnant people. In its 6-3 opinion, the court declared the case was “improvidently granted,” meaning it did not rule on the central question in the case. The court instead sent the - [300+ Organizations and Experts Urge Governments to Advance Draft Treaty on Crimes Against Humanity to Negotiations](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/280-organizations-and-experts-urge-governments-to-advance-draft-treaty-on-crimes-against-humanity-to-negotiations/) - More than 300 civil society groups and individuals today issued a joint statement urging United Nations member states to declare support for moving the Draft Articles on the Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Humanity into treaty negotiations. Human rights organizations based in Africa, the Middle East, Asia, the Americas, and Europe — as well - [Global Justice Center Announces Elise Keppler as Executive Director](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/global-justice-center-announces-elise-keppler-as-executive-director/) - NEW YORK — The Global Justice Center announced today that Elise Keppler has been named Executive Director of the organization following a months-long search process. Keppler is an internationally recognized international justice expert and advocate who joins the Global Justice Center after two decades with Human Rights Watch. She takes over as executive director following - [Global Justice Center Marks the 50th Anniversary of the Helms Amendment](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/global-justice-center-marks-the-50th-anniversary-of-the-helms-amendment/) - On Sunday, the Global Justice Center will mark 50 years since the passage of the Helms Amendment, a United States foreign policy that restricts the funding of abortion services abroad. The amendment was passed on December 17, 1973 — just months after Roe v. Wade was decided by the United States Supreme Court. Despite the - [Joint Statement — 2023 Assembly of States Parties to the International Criminal Court](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/joint-statement-2023-assembly-of-states-parties-to-the-international-criminal-court/) - Joint Statement by Global Justice Center and Women’s Initiatives for Gender Justice Your excellencies, dear colleagues, dear friends, Understanding gender justice in international criminal law is a fast and ever evolving field. It begins by seeing that gender justice has always been broader than accountability for sexual violence. We must be alert to the gendered - [Global Justice Center President Akila Radhakrishnan Announces Resignation](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/global-justice-center-president-akila-radhakrishnan-announces-resignation/) - Global Justice Center President Akila Radhakrishnan today announced her resignation. After 14 years at the organization — including 5 as president — she will resign by the end of this year. Here is her letter to the GJC community: Dear friends,Leading the Global Justice Center has never been just a job for me. That’s why it’s - [International Human Rights Committee Calls on United States to Protect Abortion Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/international-human-rights-committee-calls-on-united-states-to-protect-abortion-rights/) - The Human Rights Committee today called on the United States to take all necessary measures — at the federal, state, and local levels — to “provide legal, effective, safe and confidential access to abortion” in line with its international human rights obligations. The committee further recommended the US harmonize its laws and policies with World - [Global Justice Center Marks Sixth Anniversary of Rohingya Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/global-justice-center-marks-sixth-anniversary-of-rohingya-genocide/) - NEW YORK — The Global Justice today joins its Rohingya partners as well as human rights activists around the world in commemorating the sixth anniversary of the Rohingya genocide. Akila Radhakrishnan, president of the Global Justice Center, issued the following statement: “The sobering reality on today’s anniversary is that the Rohingya are in a condition - [Global Justice Center Marks the First Anniversary of US Supreme Court Ruling Repealing Constitutional Right to Abortion](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/global-justice-center-marks-the-first-anniversary-of-us-supreme-court-ruling-repealing-constitutional-right-to-abortion/) - NEW YORK — On Saturday, the Global Justice will join abortion rights advocates in the United States and around the world in recognizing the first anniversary of the US Supreme Court ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization. The Dobbs ruling ended nearly five decades of constitutional protections for abortion care in the United - [190+ Organizations Urge UN Special Rapporteurs to Act on Dobbs v. Jackson Supreme Court Decision](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/190-organizations-urge-un-special-rapporteurs-to-act-on-dobbs-v-jackson-supreme-court-decision/) - More than 190 organizations and individuals, including health practitioners and human rights experts, today sent a letter to United Nations experts in response to the United States Supreme Court decision that repealed the constitutional right to abortion. The letter documents how abortion restrictions imposed in the wake of the court’s ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health - [The Global Justice Center Marks Two Years Since the Military Coup in Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/the-global-justice-center-marks-two-years-since-the-military-coup-in-myanmar/) - NEW YORK — The Global Justice Center today joins human rights organizations around the world by standing in solidarity with the people of Myanmar on the second anniversary of a coup carried out by the country’s military. Since the military junta assumed power on February 1, 2021, it has executed a campaign of violence and - [The Global Justice Center Marks the 50th Anniversary of Roe v. Wade](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/the-global-justice-center-marks-the-50th-anniversary-of-roe-v-wade/) - NEW YORK — The Global Justice Center today joins abortion rights advocates across the United States by commemorating the 50-year anniversary of the United States Supreme Court’s ruling in Roe v. Wade, which established the constitutional right to abortion. Today’s anniversary comes just months after Roe was overturned in June 2022 by the Supreme Court. - [New Filing in Argentinian Genocide Case Against Myanmar Military Presents Recommendations for Treatment of Sexual Violence Victims](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/new-filing-in-argentinian-genocide-case-against-myanmar-military-presents-recommendations-for-treatment-of-sexual-violence-victims/) - BUENOS AIRES/NEW YORK — The Global Justice Center and the Burmese Rohingya Organisation UK (BROUK) today submitted recommendations to the Argentinian judiciary in a case brought against Myanmar military leaders for the genocide of the Rohingya. The case was filed by BROUK and launched by the Second Chamber of the Federal Criminal Court in 2021 under the principle of - [UN Security Council Passes First-Ever Resolution on Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/un-security-council-passes-first-ever-resolution-on-myanmar/) - NEW YORK — The United Nations Security Council today passed a resolution urging an end to the crisis in Myanmar. Despite decades of human rights abuses by the military, including the 2017 genocide of the Rohingya and the 2021 military coup, today’s resolution is the first the Security Council has passed on the situation in - [International Criminal Court Upholds Conviction of Lord’s Resistance Army Commander](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/international-criminal-court-upholds-conviction-of-lords-resistance-army-commander/) - Ruling in Case Against Dominic Ongwen Sets Historic Precedent on Reproductive Autonomy NEW YORK/THE HAGUE — The International Criminal Court today upheld the conviction of Dominic Ongwen, a former commander of the Lord’s Resistance Army, a rebel force that operated in Uganda for decades. In 2021, Ongwen was found guilty of 61 counts of war crimes and - [UN Committee Advances Treaty on Crimes Against Humanity](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/un-committee-advances-treaty-on-crimes-against-humanity/) - NEW YORK — A United Nations committee today passed a resolution that advanced the International Law Commission’s draft treaty on crimes against humanity. If eventually adopted by states, it would be the first stand-alone treaty that specifically addresses a broad range of obligations, including duties to prevent and punish crimes against humanity. Introduced by the Gambia, the - [Global Justice Center Mourns the Passing of Founder Janet Benshoof](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/global-justice-center-mourns-the-passing-of-founder-janet-benshoof/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - December 19, 2017 [NEW YORK] - It is with deep sadness that the Global Justice Center announces the passing of its founder and fearless leader, Janet Benshoof. A generational force and tireless advocate for the rule of law and women’s equality, Ms. Benshoof’s family announced her passing on December 18th. She was 70 - [Statement on the Report of the United Nations Fact-Finding Mission on Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/statement-on-the-report-of-the-united-nations-fact-finding-mission-on-myanmar/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - August 27, 2018 [New York] – The Global Justice Center (GJC) welcomes the United Nations Fact-Finding Mission on Myanmar’s report on the crimes against minority groups, including the crime of genocide against the Rohingya committed by Myanmar’s security forces. In particular, GJC commends the Fact-Finding Mission for highlighting the military’s use of sexual - [Statement on the ICC Ruling in Burma](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/statement-on-the-icc-ruling-in-burma/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - September 6, 2018 [New York] – The Global Justice Center applauds the International Criminal Court (ICC) Pre-Trial Chamber I for recognizing the Court’s jurisdiction over crimes committed by Burma’s security forces that were continued into Bangladesh—including the crimes against humanity of deportation, persecution and other inhumane acts. The ICC’s decision provides the - [Proposed Rule for ACA Marketplace Violates Women’s Fundamental Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/proposed-rule-for-aca-marketplace-violates-womens-fundamental-rights/) - The Global Justice Center (GJC) has submitted a comment to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) urging the department to withdraw the proposed rule on abortion coverage for the ACA Marketplace. The proposed rule will create bureaucratic obstacles for abortion coverage, including instituting separate payment requirements for plans that cover abortion services. The proposed rule violates - [Statement: Response to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's Expanded Application of Global Gag Rule and Siljander Amendment](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/statement-response-to-secretary-of-state-mike-pompeos-expanded-application-of-global-gag-rule-and-siljander-amendment/) - Today, the Trump Administration launched another attack on women’s health, expanding the scope of the Global Gag Rule and the application of the Siljander Amendment. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo also announced that the US will cut its assistance to the Organization of American States (OAS) based on claims that its agencies are lobbying for - [Catastrophe in Burma a Wake Up Call to the International Community: Time to End Impunity For Heinous Crimes of Military Regime](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/catastrophe-burma-wake-up-call-impunity-military-regime/) - Check out a report by Andrea Friedman, Vice-President of GJC, in which she discusses the injustices committed by the Military Regime in Burma and the potential threat to global peace and security. Download here - [EU Resolution Urges UK to Use Presidency of the Security Council to Refer Burma to the International Criminal Court](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/catastrophe-in-burma-a-wake-up-call-to-the-international-community-time-to-end-impunity-for-heinous-crimes-by-the-military-regime-2/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 27, 2008 [NEW YORK, NY] – The United Kingdom should follow the recommendation of the Parliament of the European Union and use thepresidency of the UN Security Council to press for justice and accountability for the people of Burma by referring Senior General Than Shwe and his military regime to the International Criminal - [In the Wake of Historic Resolution 1820 on Sexual Violence in Armed Conflict Women of Burma and International Lawyers Call on the Security Council to Refer the Situation in Burma to the International Criminal Court](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/in-the-wake-of-historic-resolution-1820-on-sexual-violence-in-armed-conflict-women-of-burma-and-international-lawyers-call-on-the-security-council-to-refer-the-situation-in-burma-to-the-international/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—June 20, 2008 [NEW YORK, NY] - The United Nation’s Security Council took a historic step with the passage of Resolution 1820 on Sexual Violence in Armed Conflict. Resolution 1820 recognizes the importance of full implementation of Resolution 1325 on women, peace and security and reaffirms the Security Council’s commitment to end sexual violence - [Unlawful Convictions of Burmese Political Prisoners are Crimes Against Humanity – U.N. Security Council Should Refer Burma to the International Criminal Court](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/unlawful-convictions-of-burmese-political-prisoners-are-crimes-against-humanity-u-n-security-council-should-refer-burma-to-the-international-criminal-court-november-2008/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - November 19, 2008 [NEW YORK, NY] - Certain judges in Burma, acting under the orders of Chief Justice U Aung Toe and Senior General Than Shwe, are themselves criminally liable as co-conspirators to crimes against humanity for their acts in “trying” and “convicting” 60 political activists last week. “These acts are the - [Global Justice Center Urges International Criminal Court to Investigate ISIS’s Genocide against Yazidi Women and Girls](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/global-justice-center-urges-international-criminal-court-to-investigate-isis-s-genocide-against-yazidi-women-and-girls/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - December 22, 2015 [NEW YORK, NY] – ISIS systematically perpetrates crimes against religious and ethnic minorities in Iraq and Syria, including the Yazidi people. Yazidi men and elderly women are killed, boys are recruited and converted and young women and girls are repeatedly raped, bought and sold as sex slaves, forcibly - [Global Justice Center calls on International Criminal Court to Investigate Genocide of Chibok Schoolgirls](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/global-justice-center-calls-on-international-criminal-court-to-investigate-genocide-of-chibok-schoolgirls-2/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – April 14, 2014 [NEW YORK, NY] – On the night of April 14th, 2014, 276 Nigerian schoolgirls were abducted from their boarding school in Chibok, Nigeria by the terrorist group Boko Haram. The abduction ignited worldwide outrage, sparked a vigorous social media campaign to #BringBackOurGirls, and drew condemnation from political leaders around the - [UN Commission of Inquiry on Syria Recognizes Yazidi Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/un-recognizes-yazidi-genocide/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—June 17, 2016 [NEW YORK, NY] – Yesterday, the UN Commission of Inquiry (COI) on Syria concluded that ISIS is committing genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes against the Yazidi people. The report, “They Came to Destroy”: ISIS Crimes Against the Yazidis, recognizes that the genocide is ongoing and is being committed not - [Jordan Must Arrest Al-Bashir and End Impunity for Genocide and War Crimes](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/al-bashir-jordan/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE— March 29, 2017 [NEW YORK, NY] - Yesterday, Jordan welcomed Omar al-Bashir, Sudan’s President, for the Arab League’s annual summit. Bashir is attending despite two longstanding arrest warrants from the International Criminal Court (ICC) for his actions in Darfur, including rape, murder, torture and extermination. He has been charged with genocide, war crimes - [The Global Justice Center Applauds ICC for Issuing Warrant for Gender-Based Persecution](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/gjc-applauds-icc-warrant-gender-based-persecution/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – April 13, 2018 [New York] – The Global Justice Center (GJC) applauds the International Criminal Court (ICC) for the charging of Al-Hassan Ag Abdoul Aziz Ag Mohamed Ag Mahmoud for persecution on the grounds of gender. This potentially groundbreaking case could be the first time that the Court will consider the crime of - [Joint Statement on the Assignment of the Situation in Myanmar and Bangladesh to the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber III](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/joint-statement-on-the-assignment-of-the-situation-in-myanmar-and-bangladesh-to-the-icc-pre-trial-chamber-iii/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – June 28, 2019 [NEW YORK, NY] – The Global Justice Center, European Center for Constitutional and Human Rights, Naripokkho, and Women’s Initiatives for Gender Justice welcome recent developments at the International Criminal Court (ICC) concerning the Situation in the People's Republic of Bangladesh/Republic of the Union of Myanmar. Both the intention - [International Criminal Court Approves Investigation into Afghanistan War Crimes](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/international-criminal-court-approves-investigation-into-afghanistan-war-crimes/) - NEW YORK – The International Criminal Court ruled today that an investigation into war crimes committed during the conflicts in Afghanistan could proceed. This investigation would include any crimes committed by US forces. Grant Shubin, legal director of the Global Justice Center, had the following response: "The I.C.C. was established to bring perpetrators of humanity's most - [President Trump Announces Sanctions Against ICC Officials Investigating US War Crimes in Afghanistan](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/president-trump-announces-sanctions-against-icc-officials-investigating-us-war-crimes-in-afghanistan/) - NEW YORK — President Trump issued an executive order today authorizing sanctions against International Criminal Court (ICC) employees involved in investigating potential war crimes committed by US military forces in Afghanistan. Akila Radhakrishnan, president of the Global Justice Center, had the following response: “This reckless attack on the ICC is just the latest attempt by - [President Biden Repeals ICC Sanctions](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/president-biden-repeals-icc-sanctions/) - NEW YORK — The Biden administration today repealed sanctions against the International Criminal Court. The sanctions, levied against Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda and other court officials, were issued by President Trump last year following the court’s announcement of an investigation into potential war crimes committed by US military forces in Afghanistan. Akila Radhakrishnan, president of the - [Historic Gender Training for the Iraqi High Tribunal Judges and Women Leaders at the Dead Sea](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/international-lawyers-call-for-criminal-accountagjc-historic-gender-training-for-the-iraqi-high-tribunal-judges-december-2006/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE–December 7, 2006 [JORDAN] From November 13-15, 2006, the Global Justice Center (GJC), a new iNGO based in New York provided the first training on international law and gender for 20 Iraqi High Tribunal (IHT) judges and 10 women leaders from Iraq. The training, which took place in Jordan, was requested by Iraqi women - [GJC’s Partner Group Submits Recommendations to UK Iraq Commission](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/gjc-s-partner-group-submits-recommendations-to-uk-iraq-commission-june-2007/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 18 2007 NewYork, NY – The UK-based International Coordination for Gender Justice in Iraq (ICGJI) last week submitted recommendations to the Iraq Commission, the independent cross-party UK commission to examine the future of British commitment in Iraq. Aided by the Global Justice Center, the ICGJI is a volunteer-based organization that works closely with - [John Kerry Says It's Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/john-kerry-says-it-s-genocide/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - March 17, 2016 [WASHINGTON, DC]– This morning, US Secretary of State John Kerry announced that Daesh is committing genocide against ethnic minorities, including Yazidis, Christians, and Shia Muslims. This is the first genocide the US has recognized since Darfur in 2004. Kerry was clear in laying out the crimes of Daesh - [International Coordination for Gender Justice in Iraq Highlight Importance of Gender Equality in Iraq](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/international-coordination-for-gender-justice-in-iraq-highlight-importance-of-gender-equality-in-iraq/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—June 18, 2007 [LONDON, ENGLAND] The UK-based International Coordination for Gender Justice in Iraq (ICGJI) last week submitted recommendations to the Iraq Commission, the independent cross-party UK commission to examine the future of British commitment in Iraq. Aided by the Global Justice Center, the ICGJI is a volunteer-based organization that works closely with - [Global Justice Center’s Statement on the Operation to Liberate Mosul](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/global-justice-center-statement-on-the-operation-to-liberate-mosul/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—October 17, 2016 [NEW YORK, NY] - As the operation to liberate Mosul begins, all coalition actors should ensure that they uphold their obligations under international law to protect civilians and minimize the harm caused to them. Iraq is a party to the four Geneva Conventions of 1949, Additional Protocol I to the - [On the Third Anniversary of the Massacre at Sinjar, the Global Justice Center and Bar Human Rights Committee of England & Wales Call for Justice for the Yazidi Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/on-the-third-anniversary-of-the-massacre-at-sinjar-the-global-justice-center-and-bar-human-rights-committee-of-england-wales-call-for-justice-for-the-yazidi-genocide/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - August 3, 2017 [NEW YORK, NY] - Today is the third anniversary of the massacre at Mount Sinjar where ISIS fighters murdered thousands of Yazidi men and enslaved thousands of Yazidi women and girls. Despite the fact that the UN and the European Parliament have accepted that crimes committed against the Yazidis - [GJC’s Statement on Iraq Requesting International Assistance in Bringing Daesh to Justice](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/on-world-day-for-international-justice-gjc-calls-on-the-international-community-to-take-immediate-2/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - August 16, 2017 [NEW YORK, NY] - GJC welcomes Iraq’s letter to the UN requesting assistance in bringing Daesh to justice and thanks the United Kingdom for its efforts in negotiating a UN Security Council resolution. We reiterate our call that all investigations and prosecutions must ensure accountability for gender-based crimes, - [UN Security Council Adopts Resolution - One Step Towards Justice for the Yazidi Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/un-security-council-adopts-resolution-one-step-towards-justice-for-the-yazidi-genocide/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - September 21, 2017 [NEW YORK, NY] – Today, the UN Security Council unanimously adopted UNSC Resolution 2379 (2017) on Daesh accountability, paving the way for an investigative team to collect evidence of war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide in Iraq. Since 2014, Daesh has been perpetrating a genocidal campaign against the Yazidi and - [Human Rights Org Send Open Letter to Iraqi Prime Minister on establishing an Investigative Team for Crimes Committed by Daesh, including Yazidi Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/human-rights-org-send-open-letter-to-iraqi-prime-minister/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October, 30 2017 [NEW YORK and BAGHDAD] – Today, the Global Justice Center along with the Eyzidi Organization for Documentation, the Iraqi Al-Amal Association, the Iraqi Women Network, Madre and Yazda sent a joint open letter to the Iraqi Prime Minister Dr. Haider al-Abadi regarding the Terms of Reference currently being drafted for UN - [Prosecution of captured ISIS officials must adhere to international standards](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/prosecution-of-captured-isis-officials-must-adhere-to-international-standards/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – May 10, 2018 [New York] – In light of the capture of five senior ISIS officials on Wednesday, the Global Justice Center underscores the need for scrupulous adherence to international standards as they are brought to justice. The New York Times reports that, “It was unclear where [the officials] were being held or - [A Call For All Member States of the Human Rights Council: End the Gross Violations of the Rights of Girls and Women Raped and Impregnated in Armed Conflict, to Non-Discriminatory Medical Care, Including Abortions, Under the Geneva Convention](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/a-call-for-all-member-states-of-the-human-rights-council-end-the-gross-violations-of-the-rights-of-girls-and-women-raped-and-impregnated-in-armed-conflict-to-non-discriminatory-medical-care-including/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—November 2010 [NEW YORK, NY] - Thousands of girls and women, impregnated by rape in armed conflict are routinely and illegally denied lifesaving abortions in places like the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Burma and Sudan. The right to non-discriminatory medical care for these victims, which includes the option of abortion, is enshrined - [At UN Human Rights Council, Norwegian Government Recommends that the United States Remove its Restrictions that Deny Abortions to Victims Raped in Conflict](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/at-un-human-rights-council-norwegian-government-recommends-that-the-united-states-remove-its-restrictions-that-deny-abortions-to-victims-raped-in-conflict-november-2010/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - November 11, 2010 [NORWAY] - Norway became the first country to challenge the legality of the anti-abortion conditions that the United States imposes on all of its foreign aid, in a question posed at the Universal Periodic Review of the United States before the Human Rights Council in Geneva. Citing a Global Justice - [On International Women’s Day, GJC Salutes the NY City Bar Association for Challenging the Legality of the US Abortion Prohibitions Imposed on US Humanitarian Aid for Women Raped in Armed Conflict](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/on-international-women-s-day-gjc-salutes-the-ny-city-bar-association-for-challenging-the-legality-of-the-us-abortion-prohibitions-imposed-on-us-humanitarian-aid-for-women-raped-in-armed-conflict-mar-2/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—March 4, 2011 [NEW YORK, NY] - On March 4, 2011, the Association of the Bar of New York, on behalf of some 22,000 members, wrote to President Obama urging the Administration to lift the abortion prohibitions put on all US humanitarian aid for women and girl survivors of rape used as a - [President Obama Urged to End U.S. Violation of the Rights of Rape Survivors in Armed Conflict](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/president-obama-urged-to-end-u-s-violation-of-the-rights-of-rape-survivors-in-armed-conflict-august-2011/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—August 25, 2011 To coincide with the anniversary of the U.S. signing the Geneva Conventions, the Global Justice Center launched the global “August 12th”campaign to urge President Obama to immediately lift the “no abortion” restriction attached to all U.S. humanitarian aid for medical care given to girls and women raped and impregnated in - [Vice-Presidents of European Parliament Urge President Obama to Lift US Abortion Restrictions](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/vice-presidents-of-european-parliament-urge-president-obama-to-lift-us-abortion-restrictions-219/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - March 2, 2012 [NEW YORK, NY] - The Global Justice Center's August 12th campaign is gaining momentum. The Vice-Presidents of the European Parliament have written a letter to Obama to issue an Executive order to lift all current U.S abortion restrictions that prohibit girls and women raped in armed conflict from - [UN Security Council Takes a Historic Stand Supporting Abortion Access for Women Raped in War](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/un-security-council-takes-a-historic-stand-supporting-abortion-access-for-women-raped-in-war-226/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 18, 2013 [NEW YORK, NY] – In an historic first, the United Nations Security Council unanimously passed a groundbreaking resolution supporting abortion services for girls and women raped in armed conflict. Although the Security Council did not use the term “abortion” in Resolution 2122, its language makes clear that Member - [Coalition of Human Rights, Legal, Medical and Religious Groups Call on Obama to Lift Abortion Ban on Aid to War Rape Victims](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/coalition-of-human-rights-legal-medical-and-religious-groups-call-on-obama-to-lift-abortion-ban-on-aid-to-war-rape-victims/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - July 7, 2015 [NEW YORK, NY]– Pressure is mounting on the White House to lift the abortion ban on US foreign aid for girls and women raped in armed conflicts. An international coalition of human rights, legal, medical and religious groups have signed a letter to President Obama urging him to - [US Response to Challenges to Abortion Ban for War Rape Victims Opens Door for Executive Action](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/us-response-to-challenges-to-abortion-ban/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—September 2, 2015 [WASHINGTON D.C.] On September 1, 2015, in its response to challenges to US abortion restrictions on foreign assistance, the Obama Administration signaled support for addressing the medical needs of girls and women raped and impregnated in armed conflict. This support can be found in the US’s positive response to France’s - [OMCT & GJC Report to CAT: Sri Lankan laws condone torture of women and girls](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/omct-gjc-report-to-cat-sri-lankan-laws-condone-torture-of-women-and-girls/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—November 14, 2016 [NEW YORK and GEVENA (OMCT-GJC)] — Tomorrow, the Committee Against Torture (CAT), during its 59th session, will examine Sri Lanka’s fifth State party report. In October, the Global Justice Center (GJC) and the World Organisation Against Torture (OMCT) jointly submitted an alternative report focused on how Sri Lankan law violates the Convention - [The Global Justice Center Commends the “She Decides” Initiative for Combatting the Deadly Effects of Trump’s expanded Global Gag Rule](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/she-decides/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 2 2017 Brussels (BE) – Today, the Belgian, Dutch, Swedish and Danish Governments hosted a conference in support of the global fundraising initiative “She Decides.” The initiative was founded to combat the impact of the Global Gag Rule that Donald Trump signed on his second day in office. Representatives from over - [Today on International Women’s Day, the Global Justice Center Marches to Stop the Gag](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/womens-strike/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 8 2017 Washington, DC – Today, on International Women’s Day and the day of the Women’s Strike, the Global Justice Center joins over 40 other partner organizations in protesting against Trump’s reinstated and expanded Global Gag Rule. The protest takes place just a week after the international “She Decides” Conference in Brussels raised $181 - [President Trump Expands Gag Rule to $8.8 Billion in Aid](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/president-trump-expands-gag-rule/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — May 15, 2017 [NEW YORK, NY] - Today, Donald Trump is announcing a new policy entitled “Protecting Life in Global Health Assistance." This policy will massively expand the Global Gag Rule by drastically increasing the amount of global health assistance funds and government programs that will be covered, affecting some $8.8 - [Global Justice Center Applauds Senate Committee Vote Against Global Gag Rule](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/global-justice-center-applauds-senate-committee-vote-against-global-gag-rule/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - September 8, 2017 [NEW YORK, NY] – On Thursday, the Senate Appropriations Committee moved to reinstate funding for the United Nations Population Fund and overturn Trump’s reinstatement and expansion of the Global Gag Rule. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen from New Hampshire proposed an amendment to the 2018 State and Foreign Operations Appropriations Bill that - [Ninety humanitarian and human rights groups call on European Commission to provide abortion services to women and girls in war zones](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/ninety-humanitarian-and-human-rights-groups-call-on-european-commission-to-provide-abortion-services-to-women-and-girls-in-war-zones/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - November 23, 2017 [NEW YORK and GOMA] – On Saturday, the world celebrates the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. In anticipation of this day, a global coalition of ninety civil society organizations calls on the European Commission to ensure that abortion, a medical procedure, is included in the - [State Department Releases Flawed and Premature Review of the Global Gag Rule](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/state-department-releases-flawed-and-premature-review-of-the-global-gag-rule/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - February 9, 2018 [NEW YORK] On Wednesday, the State Department released a six-month review on the impact of the Global Gag Rule (or as the White House calls it, the “Protecting Life in Global Health Assistance” policy.) This review is both limited in scope and extremely premature, as insufficient time has passed - [On the Anniversary of “She Decides,” US Must Repeal its Anti-Abortion Restrictions](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/on-the-anniversary-of-she-decides/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - March 2, 2018 [New York] – Today marks the one-year anniversary of the day when governments all over the world came together and created the She Decides initiative to combat the impact of the Trump administration’s expanded Global Gag Rule. She Decides has raised over $450 million to date to support - [President Trump Puts Women At Risk With U.S. Abortion Gag Rule](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/president-trump-puts-women-at-risk-with-u-s-abortion-gag-rule/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – May 23, 2018 [NEW YORK] – The Trump administration proposed a domestic “Gag Rule” last night, banning health centers that provide, refer, support, or assist women in accessing abortion services from receiving Title X funding. This dangerous policy will deny women their fundamental human rights. Like the Global Gag Rule reinstated by President - [Proposed "Domestic Gag Rule" Violates Americans’ Right to Free Speech](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/the-domestic-gag-rule-violates-americans-right-to-free-speech/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – July 31, 2018 [NEW YORK, NY] – Today marks the deadline for public commentary on the changes to the Title X Family Planning Program proposed by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). If adopted, this domestic “gag rule” would ban health centers that receive Title X funding from providing - [United Nations Human Rights Committee Requests Information on United States Violations of Sexual and Reproductive Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/united-nations-human-rights-committee-requests-information-on-united-states-violations-of-sexual-and-reproductive-rights/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – April 3, 2019 [NEW YORK, NY] – Today, the UN Human Rights Committee (HRC) challenged the United States’s restrictive abortion policies as potential violations of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) in its list of issues prior to submission of the fifth periodic report of the United States. - [UN Security Council Adopts Resolution 2467](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/un-security-council-adopts-resolution-2467/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – April 23, 2019 [NEW YORK, NY] – Today, the United Nations Security Council adopted Resolution 2467 on Women, Peace and Security. Although the resolution purports to address the needs of victims of sexual violence in conflict, it contains no direct references to reproductive health—a key component of necessary and comprehensive medical - [USAID Chief Demands Abortion be Removed from UN COVID-19 Response Plan](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/usaid-chief-demands-abortion-be-removed-from-un-covid-19-response-plan/) - NEW YORK — Acting Administrator for the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), John Barsa, sent a letter to United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres yesterday requesting references to sexual and reproductive health be removed from the UN’s Global Humanitarian Response Plan to fight COVID-19. Akila Radhakrishnan, president of the Global Justice Center, had the following response: “This - [Rep. Jan Schakowsky, Abortion Rights Groups Announce First-Ever Bill to Repeal 47-Year-old Anti-Abortion Policy](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/rep-jan-schakowsky-abortion-rights-groups-announce-first-ever-bill-to-repeal-47-year-old-anti-abortion-policy/) - Abortion is Health Care Everywhere Act would repeal the Helms Amendment, which bars U.S. foreign assistance funding for abortion, expanding abortion access globally WASHINGTON -- Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), a Senior Chief Deputy Whip and Chair of the Congressional Pro-Choice Caucus Providers and Clinics Task Force, today introduced the Abortion is Health Care Everywhere Act. - [The Blueprint for Sexual and Reproductive Health, Rights, and Justice Releases First Priorities for an Incoming Administration](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/rep-jan-schakowsky-abortion-rights-groups-announce-first-ever-bill-to-repeal-47-year-old-anti-abortion-policy-2/) - WASHINGTON — Today, the Blueprint for Sexual and Reproductive Health, Rights, and Justice released First Priorities, a detailed punch list of executive and agency actions for the opening days of an incoming administration. First Priorities is based on the Blueprint, a bold, intersectional, and proactive policy agenda to advance sexual and reproductive health, rights, and justice released last year - [President Biden Releases Budget That Removes Hyde Amendment, Leaves Other Abortion Restrictions in Place](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/president-biden-releases-budget-that-removes-hyde-amendment-leaves-other-abortion-restrictions-in-place/) - NEW YORK — In his first presidential budget released today, President Biden removed the Hyde Amendment, but left in place several other restrictions on abortion funding, including the Helms Amendment. The Helms Amendment has prohibited any U.S. foreign aid from going to abortion services since 1973. Among other anti-abortion policies included in the budget, the - [Joint Statement on Supreme Court Arguments in Texas Abortion Case](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/joint-statement-on-supreme-court-arguments-in-texas-abortion-case/) - The following is a joint statement about the Texas abortion law by the Global Justice Center, Amnesty International USA, and Human Rights Watch; The United States Supreme Court is holding oral arguments on November 1, 2021 on procedural questions related to challenges brought against an extreme anti-abortion law in the state of Texas. Key protections - [WHO issues new guidelines on abortion to help countries deliver lifesaving care](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/who-issues-new-guidelines-on-abortion-to-help-countries-deliver-lifesaving-care/) - The World Health Organization (WHO) is releasing new guidelines on abortion care today, in a bid to protect the health of women and girls and help prevent over 25 million unsafe abortions that currently occur each year. “Being able to obtain safe abortion is a crucial part of health care,” said Craig Lissner, acting Director for Sexual and - [USAID and State Department Urged to Take Steps to Implement Exceptions for Funding of Abortion Services Abroad](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/usaid-and-state-department-urged-to-take-steps-to-implement-exceptions-for-funding-of-abortion-services-abroad/) - More than 100 international and domestic organizations today sent a letter to the U.S. State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) urging them to end overly restrictive interpretations of law that block the use of foreign assistance funds for abortion services in any circumstance. The Helms Amendment prohibits foreign assistance funding for abortion - [International Committee on Racial Discrimination Calls on US to Protect Abortion Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/international-committee-on-racial-discrimination-calls-on-us-to-protect-abortion-rights/) - NEW YORK — The Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination today called on the United States to take all necessary measures — at the federal and state level — to provide safe, legal, and effective access to abortion in line with its international human rights obligations. The recommendation came as part of the committee’s - [GJC Commends Iraqi Prosecutor for Including Rape in Closing Arguments of Kurdish Genocide Trial](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/gjc-commends-iraqi-prosecutor-for-including-rape-in-closing-arguments-of-kurdish-genocide-trial-april-2007/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—April 10, 2007 [NEW YORK, NY] The Global Justice Center, an NGO that advocates for women’s human rights through the rule of law, commends Prosecutor Monquth Al Faroon for including the charges of rape and sexual violence against the perpetrators of the Kurdish genocide in his closing arguments for the Al-Anfal trial in - [International Lawyers Call for Criminal Accountability for Myanmar Regime](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/international-lawyers-call-for-criminal-accountability-for-myanmar-regime-september-2007/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—September 27, 2007 [MAE SOD, THAILAND] The Burma Lawyers’ Council and the Global Justice Center urge the United Nations Security Council to take all actions necessary to stop the murders of innocent people in Burma and hold the military junta commanders criminally accountable. This includes authorizing peacekeeping forces and creating an independent commission of - [International Lawyers Denounce Attempt by Myanmar Regime to Give Themselves Immunity from Criminal Prosecutions and Renew Call for Criminal Investigation](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/international-lawyers-denounce-attempt-by-myanmar-regime-to-give-themselves-immunity-from-criminal-prosecutions-and-renew-call-for-criminal-investigation-april-2008/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—April 14, 2008 [MAE SOD, THAILAND] The Myanmar regime, guilty of the most serious crimes of concern to the international community, has revealed that it is seeking to give itself constitutional immunity from prosecution for those crimes. The Burma Lawyers’ Council, the Global Justice Center and the Burma Justice Committee denounce this attempt by - [Catastrophe in Burma a Wake Up Call to the International Community: Time to End Impunity for Heinous Crimes by the Military Regime](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/catastrophe-in-burma-a-wake-up-call-to-the-international-community-time-to-end-impunity-for-heinous-crimes-by-the-military-regime/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 22, 2008 [NEW YORK, NY] – Senior General Than Shwe’s denial of international humanitarian aid to the victims of Cyclone Nargis should come as no surprise to the international community. This negligence and refusal of access is part and parcel of the criminal nature of the regime and reflects their fear that the entire - [EU Resolution Urges UK to use Presidency of the Security Council to Refer Burma to the International Criminal Court](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/eu-resolution-uk-burma-international-criminal-court/) - Check out a report by Andrea Friedman, Vice-President of GJC, in which she discusses the EU resolution that urges the UK to use its position in the Security Council to refer Burma to the ICC for the injustices committed by the military regime. Download here - [Criminal Accountability for Heinous crimes in Burma, A Joint Project of the Global Justice Center and the Burma’s Lawyers’ Council](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/criminal-accountability-for-heinous-crimes-in-burma-a-joint-project-of-the-global-justice-center-and-the-burma-s-lawyers-council-july-2008/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - July, 2008 [NEW YORK, NY] - The Security Council should act under its Chapter 7 powers and end the impunity accorded the Burmese military junta for crimes perpetrated against the people of Burma. The junta uses torture, gang rape of ethnic women, slavery, murder, mass imprisonment, and abduction of children to - [International Human Rights Group Lambastes New Burma Constitution For Giving Junta Officers Amnesty for Rape and Other Crimes](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/human-rights-group-lambastes-new-burma-constitution/) - Check out a report by Janet Benshoof, Founder and President of GJC, in which she discusses the new Burma constituion and the issues it proposes in respect to disenfranchising women from holding top positions in government. Download here - [International Human Rights Group Lambastes New Burma Constitution for Giving Junta officers Amnesty for Rape and other Crimes and Disenfranchising Women from Forever Holding Top Government Offices; Urges the United Nations to Reject Junta’s CEDAW Report](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/international-human-rights-group-lambastes-new-burma-constitution-for-giving-junta-officers-amnesty-for-rape-and-other-crimes-and-disenfranchising-women-from-forever-holding-top-government-offices-urg/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 24, 2008 [NEW YORK, NY] – On Monday October 27, 2008, the 42nd session of the CEDAW Committee (the enforcement body for the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women) will meet in Geneva to question representatives from Myanmar/Burma on the junta’s compliance with CEDAW, which they ratified July 22, - [A Call for Lifting Restrictions on Abortion and Humanitarian Aid](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/gjc-humanitarian-aid/) - Check out a press release of GJC urging all member states and civil society groups to write to President Obama to lift restrictions on abortion. Download here - [The Global Justice Center Announces the Report of the Secretary-General pursuant to Security Council Resolution 1820 and the Report’s Noteworthy Inclusion of Burma](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/gjc-report-secretary-general-pursuant/) - Check out a press release of GJC announcing the report of the Secretary General pursuant to Secretary Council Resolution 1820 and the Report's Noteworthy Inclusion of Burma. The press release discusses the important changes being made to global dialogue on sexual violence. Download here - [The Global Justice Center Commends U.S. Ambassador Verveer](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/gjc-us-ambassador-verveer/) - Check out a press release of GJC commending U.S. Ambassador Verveer for calling for proescution of military crimes in Burma in order for to uphold human rights on International Human Rights Day. Download here - [Global Justice Center Challenges the Abortion Speech Censorship Imposed by the U.S. on all Foreign Aid Recipients, at the UN Human Rights Council](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/global-justice-center-challenges-the-abortion-speech-censorship-imposed-by-the-u-s-on-all-foreign-aid-recipients-at-the-un-human-rights-council-may-2010/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 26, 2010 [NEW YORK, NY] - The Global Justice Center, in a submission to the UN Human Rights Council, challenges the censorship of abortion related speech imposed on all U.S. foreign aid. The Global Justice Center identifies the alarming effects of this censorship, including denying impregnated rape victims in conflict access to - [The Global Justice Center Calls for the Release of Political Prisoners in Burma](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/gjc-political-prisoners/) - Check out a press release of GJC calling for the release of political prisoners in Burma after releasing a transcript that exposes the military's use of trumped up pornography charges to convict Buddhist monks and nuns. Download here - [United Kingdom Pledges to Ensure Abortion Access for Women Raped in War](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/united-kingdom-pledges-to-ensure-abortion-access-for-women-raped-in-war-221/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - January 10, 2013 [NEW YORK, NY] - The United Kingdom (UK) announced a historic change in their policy on abortions for women raped in armed conflict, a move that should have enormous global impact on health care given women in war zones. UK government spokesperson, Baroness Northover, speaking in the House of - [Socialist International Women Pass Resolution on "Rape as a Weapon or Tactic of Armed Conflict"](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/socialist-international-women-pass-resolution-on-rape-as-a-weapon-or-tactic-of-armed-conflict-220/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - August 27, 2012 [NEW YORK, NY] - The Global Justice Center applauds the resolution passed by the Socialist International Women congress on "rape as a weapon or tactic of armed conflict." The organization is made up of 149 organisations from all parts of the world and is the international organisation of women's - [The Nuclear Age Peace Foundation Calls for UN Security Council Action on the 2008 Myanmar Constitution's Removal of All Civilian Government Control Over the Military](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/the-nuclear-age-peace-foundation-calls-for-un-security-council-action-on-the-2008-myanmar-constitution-s-removal-of-all-civilian-government-control-over-the-military-222/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - November 30, 2012 [NEW YORK, NY] - On November 30, 2012, the President of the Nuclear Age Peace Foundation, Dr. David Krieger, alerted United Nations Security Council members to the security risks raised by the 2008 Myanmar constitution, which denies the civilian government any power to control the military. The 2008 - [Netherlands Affirms Right of Women Raped in Armed Conflict to Abortions as Part of Necessary Medical Care Under International Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/netherlands-affirms-right-of-women-raped-in-armed-conflict-to-abortions-as-part-of-necessary-medical-care-under-international-law-223/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - April 9, 2013 [AMSTERDAM, NL] - Frans Timmermans, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands and Lilaane Ploumen, Minister of Foreign Trade and Development, just affirmed to parliamentary questions submitted in March 2013 in the Netherlands that the foreign ministry agrees with the UK that abortion can be a necessary medical - [Prof. Louise Doswald-Beck, Leading Expert on International Humanitarian Law, Calls on President Obama to End US Abortion Restrictions on Aid to War Rape Victims](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/prof-louise-doswald-beck-leading-expert-on-international-humanitarian-law-calls-on-president-obama-to-end-us-abortion-restrictions-on-aid-to-war-rape-victims-224/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - April 16, 2013 [NEW YORK, NY] – The Global Justice Center (GJC) applauds the letter sent by Professor Louise Doswald-Beck to President Obama, urging him to lift US abortion restrictions on humanitarian aid for girls and women raped in armed conflict. Prof. Doswald-Beck is a former head of the Legal Division - [UN Security Council Addresses Sexual and Reproductive Rights for Girls and Women Raped in War](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/un-security-council-addresses-sexual-reproductive-rights-for-girls-women-raped-in-war-225/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 24, 2013 [NEW YORK, NY] - Today, the United Nations Security Council unanimously passed Resolution 2106 addressing sexual violence in armed conflict during a debate led by the United Kingdom. Significantly, for the first time, a Security Council Resolution explicitly calls for UN entities and donor countries to provide “non-discriminatory and - [United Nations Stakeholders Alerted of Continued Use of Sexual Violence as a Weapon of War in Burma's Ethnic Areas](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/united-nations-stakeholders-alerted-of-continued-use-of-sexual-violence-as-a-weapon-of-war-in-burma-s-ethnic-areas-229/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - April 24, 2014 [NEW YORK, NY] - Today, at a side-event to the Security Council’s annual debate on conflict-related sexual violence, the United Nations was presented with a troubling account of continuing sexual violence committed by the military against ethnic women in Burma. On the eve of the April 25 debate, - [On Anniversary of Geneva Conventions, President Obama Should End U.S. Violations and Lift Abortion Ban on Humanitarian Aid](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/on-anniversary-of-geneva-conventions-president-obama-should-end-u-s-violations-and-lift-abortion-ban-on-humanitarian-aid-230/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – August 12, 2014 [NEW YORK, NY] – Sixty-five years ago today the United States signed the Geneva Conventions. It is a shame the U.S. now violates the rights of girls and women raped in armed conflict under the Conventions by denying them access to safe abortion services in humanitarian zones. As the - [US Abortion Restrictions of Foreign Aid Perpetuate Torture and Cruel, Inhuman and Degrading Treatment](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/us-abortion-restrictions-of-foreign-aid-perpetuate-torture-and-cruel-inhuman-and-degrading-treatment/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – October 21, 2014 [NEW YORK, NY & GENEVA] - Today marks the 20th anniversary of U.S. ratification of the United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CAT). Yet to this day, the U.S. repeatedly fails to meet its commitments under the treaty with its - [New Report on Sexual Violence in Burma: Military Impedes Justice for Survivors](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/new-report-on-sexual-violence-in-burma-military-impedes-justice-for-survivors-231/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - November 24, 2014 [RANGOON, CHIANG MAI] A new report to be released Tuesday by the Women’s League of Burma (WLB) reveals ongoing sexual violence by government forces against ethnic women in Burma, and presents troubling evidence of intimidation of those seeking justice for these crimes. Covering the period between January and June - [UN Human Rights Council Challenges US Abortion Ban on Humanitarian Assistance](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/un-human-rights-council-challenges-us-abortion-ban-on-humanitarian-assistance/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 11, 2015 [GENEVA, CH] - Today, during the 2nd Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of the United States, several UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) Member States directly challenged the abortion restrictions that the U.S. imposes on its foreign aid. “The list of countries calling on the United States to lift its abortion - [U.S. Blocks Abortion Access to Newly Freed Nigerian Captives Impregnated by Boko Haram](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/u-s-blocks-abortion-access-to-newly-freed-nigerian-captives-impregnated-by-boko-haram/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 5, 2015 [NEW YORK, NY] - The rescue of 234 women and girls from Boko Haram captivity on May 4, 214 of whom the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) reported to be pregnant, exposes the indignity of the U.S. foreign aid abortion ban, which severely limits the ability of sexual violence - [European Parliament Targets US Helms Amendment](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/european-parliament-targets-us-helms-amendment/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – June 11, 2015 [NEW YORK, NY] - In a resolution adopted this week, the European Parliament called for access to abortion for women and girls victims of war rape. As pressure mounts on the White House to move on the Helms Amendment, the European Parliament joined voices targeting US abortion restrictions - [UN Security Council Adopts Eighth Resolution on Women, Peace & Security, Linking the Agenda to Countering Violent Extremism](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/un-security-council-adopts-eighth-resolution-on-women-peace-security-linking-the-agenda-to-countering-violent-extremism-237/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 14, 2015 [NEW YORK, NY] – Yesterday, the UN Security Council unanimously adopted its eighth resolution on Women, Peace & Security, directly connecting the global agenda on combating violent extremism and terrorism to women’s experiences of conflict. The new Resolution 2242 emphasizes women’s role in preventing violent extremism and recognizes that - [European Union Divorces Itself from US Abortion Ban: Anti-US Helms Amendment Attached to 2016 EU Budget](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/european-union-divorces-itself-from-us-abortion-ban/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - December 18, 2015 [NEW YORK, NY] – The EU just approved its 2016 budget containing the first ever anti-Helms Amendment. The US Helms amendment imposes abortion restrictions on all US foreign aid, which the Obama Administration implements as a total ban on abortion including medical services for girls and women raped in - [European Parliament Recognizes ISIS Atrocities as Genocide and Urges States to Act](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/european-parliament-recognizes-isis-atrocities-as-genocide-and-urges-states-to-act/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - February 5, 2016 [STRASBOURG, FRANCE] – In an historic resolution, the European Parliament yesterday recognized ISIS’ ongoing atrocities against religious minorities as genocide. The resolution is the first time the Parliament called on parties, including EU Member States, to fulfill their duties under the UN Genocide Convention during an ongoing conflict. - [EU Finalizes Divorce From US Abortion Ban](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/eu-finalizes-divorce-from-us-abortion-ban/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - February 24, 2016 [NEW YORK, NY]– Today, the EU adopted its 2016 budget containing the first ever anti-Helms Amendment. The US Helms amendment currently imposes an abortion ban on all US foreign aid, including support for girls and women raped in armed conflict. The 2016 EU Budget requires that all humanitarian - [The Clock is Ticking: No Justice for Girls Abducted by Boko Haram](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/the-clock-is-ticking-no-justice-for-girls-abducted-by-the-boko-haram/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – April 14, 2016 [NEW YORK, NY] – It is now two years since Boko Haram abducted nearly 300 Chibok Christian schoolgirls. The loud global rallying cry, which included Michelle Obama, to “Bring Back Our Girls”, has not stopped Boko Haram from targeting women and girls with heinous crimes including kidnappings, rapes, - [Human Rights Groups Call for Arrest and Prosecution of Myanmar’s Minister of Home Affairs for War Crimes and Human Rights Violations](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/human-rights-groups-call-for-arrest-and-prosecution-of-myanmar-s-minister-of-home-affairs-for-war-crimes-and-human-rights-violations/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—November 5, 2015 [GENEVA & NEW YORK] – Tomorrow, an alleged war criminal accused of torture, murder, enslavement, pillage, rape, and forcible population transfer, is scheduled to present Myanmar’s human rights record at the United Nations. In response, the Global Justice Center (GJC) and Justice Trust released an indictment charging Lieutenant General Ko Ko - [ACP-EU JPA Pass Resolution on Rape and Sexual Violence Against Women and Children in Africa](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/acp-eu-jpa-pass-resolution-on-rape-and-sexual-violence-against-women-and-children-in-africa/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—June 27, 2016 [Windhoek, Namibia] – The African Caribbean Pacific (ACP)- European Union (EU) Joint Parliamentary Assembly (JPA) adopted a resolution on rape and sexual violence against women and children in armed conflict that recognized rape as an element crime of genocide when commmitted with the intent to destroy the targeted group. The resolution further - [Global Justice Center’s Statement on the US Presidential Election](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/on-the-election/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—November 9, 2016 [NEW YORK, NY] In response to the US Presidential Election, the Global Justice Center issues the following statement: On Monday, the United States seemed to be on the precipice of not only electing its first female leader but an experienced and measured public servant who had dedicated her life to the - [On the International Day of Commemoration of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide the International Community Must Act to End Ongoing Genocide Committed by ISIS](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/on-the-international-day-of-commemoration-of-the-victims-of-the-crime-of-genocide-the-international-community-must-act-to-end-ongoing-genocide-committed-by-isis/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—December 9, 2016 [NEW YORK] — Today the United Nations marks the second International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of the Crime. On this day, as we reflect on the legacy of genocide, yet again the international community is failing to take - [Sakharov Nominees: “The EU can do more than a prize: it must recognise our genocide”](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/sakharov-nominees-the-eu-can-do-more-than-a-prize-it-must-recognise-our-genocide/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—December 12, 2016 [NEW YORK] — Tomorrow the European Parliament will award its annual Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought to Nadia Murad and Lamya Haji Bashar. The two Yazidi women were captured by ISIS in their home area of Sinjar, Iraq, in 2014. They escaped after several months of enslavement and now live in Germany. Nadia - [GJC Statement on the Inauguration of Donald Trump](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/gjc-statement-on-the-inauguration-of-donald-trump/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE— January 20 2016 [NEW YORK] – Today, as Donald Trump is sworn in as the 45th President of the United States, it is important to remember that no one—and no country—is above the law. Over the course of his presidential campaign, Mr. Trump has expressed his attitude on a range of issues, from - [GJC Statement on the Anniversary of Roe vs. Wade](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/gjc-statement-on-roe/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE— January 22 2017 [NEW YORK] – Today marks the 44th anniversary of the Supreme Court decision in Roe vs. Wade, two days after the inauguration of Donald Trump, and one day after millions of women all over the world marched in support of women’s rights. Any moment now Mr. Trump is expected to - [Two Days After the Largest Women’s Rights March in History, Donald Trump Reinstates the Global Gag Rule](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/gjc-statement-on-gag/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE— January 23 2017 [NEW YORK] – Today, Mr. Trump reinstated the Global Gag Rule, an executive policy that extends Congressional abortion restrictions on foreign assistance by barring US foreign aid from going to any foreign organization that performs or provides information about abortions as a method of family planning. “Just one day after - [President Trump Expands Gag Rule Far Beyond Reagan or Bush](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/gjc-statement-on-gag-expansion/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE— January 24 2017 [NEW YORK] – Yesterday, Donald Trump re-instated the Global Gag Rule, as every Republican president since Ronald Reagan has done since taking office. Unlike his predecessors, Trump far expanded the reach of the Gag Rule. Under Reagan and Bush, the Gag Rule required that foreign non-governmental organizations certify that they will - [Trump’s Executive Order Banning Refugees & Immigrants Needlessly Harms Those Fleeing Violence & Conflict](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/trump-s-executive-order-banning-refugees-immigrants-needlessly-harms-those-fleeing-violence-conflict/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE— January 27 2017 [NEW YORK] – Today, Donald Trump followed through on one of his racist and xenophobic campaign promise—ban refugees and immigrants from largely Muslim countries. This ban is accompanied by a drastic reduction in the number of refugees the US will take and a series of other undefined and vague provisions - [First International Arrest Warrant for Genocide Against the Yazidi](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/first-international-arrest-warrant/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE— February 14 2017 [NEW YORK] – This weekend, the German newspaper “Welt am Sonntag” reported that in December, the German Federal Prosecutor’s Office obtained an international arrest warrant for a high-ranking ISIS commander who according to sources was “significantly responsible to the sexual slavery of Yazidi women and girls.” The warrant for genocide and - [Trump’s New Executive Order Banning Refugees & Immigrants Needlessly Harms Those Fleeing Violence & Conflict](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/trump-s-executive-order/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE— March 6 2017 [NEW YORK] – Today, Donald Trump signed a revised executive order extending his racist and xenophobic campaign promise—ban refugees and immigrants from largely Muslim countries. This ban is accompanied by a halt in taking in refugees and increased vetting protocols that can be used as a pretext to surveil and profile - [On Anniversary of Rwandan Genocide, GJC Calls on the International Community to Uphold the UN Genocide Convention](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/rwanda-anniversary/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — April 7, 2017 [NEW YORK, NY] - Today marks the 23rd Anniversary of the start of the Rwanda genocide when 80% of the Tutsi population in Rwanda was exterminated. Over the course of 100 days, up to a half million Tutsi women were raped, sexually mutilated or murdered. The International Criminal - [Women and Girls Deserve Equal Protection for Medical Services Under IHL](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/women-and-girls-deserve-equal-protection-of-medical-services-under-ihl/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — May 15, 2017 [NEW YORK, NY] - Today, the UN Security Council holds its Open Debate on Conflict-Related Sexual Violence under Uruguay’s presidency. In the concept note, Uruguay reflected on the findings of the new UN Secretary-General’s report on how rape is used as a weapon of terrorism and genocide. They - [On World Day for International Justice GJC Calls on the International Community to take Immediate Action on Yazidi Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/on-world-day-for-international-justice-gjc-calls-on-the-international-community-to-take-immediate/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - July 17, 2017 [NEW YORK, NY] – On the World Day for International Justice and almost three years after ISIS began a campaign of genocide against the Yazidis, the Global Justice Center renews its calls to world leaders to uphold international law and ensure justice for Yazidi women and girls. “As - [GJC’s statement on the situation in Rakhine State, Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/gjc-s-statement-on-the-situation-in-rakhine-state-myanmar/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - September 9, 2017 [NEW YORK, NY] - In light of ongoing violence in Rakhine State, the Global Justice Center issues the following statement: The Global Justice Center calls for the immediate cessation of all acts of violence and the protection of civilian populations in Rakhine State. The Myanmar government must swiftly investigate - [GJC Welcomes Verdict by ICTY Convicting Ratko Mladić for War Crimes, Crimes Against Humanity and Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/gjc-welcomes-verdict-by-icty-convicting-ratko-mladic-for-war-crimes-crimes-against-humanity-and-genocide/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - November 22, 2017 [NEW YORK] – The Global Justice Center (GJC) welcomes the historic verdict by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) of Ratko Mladić for genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity. Mladić was convicted of genocide and persecution, extermination, murder, the inhumane act of forcible transfer, terror, unlawful - [Today on International Women’s Day, the Global Justice Center Presses Forward for New Rights for Women](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/today-on-international-women-s-day-the-global-justice-center-presses-forward-for-new-rights-for-women/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - March 8, 2018 [New York] – On International Women’s Day, the Global Justice Center stands with women and girls raped in conflict. As a direct result of the abortion restrictions the US puts on its foreign aid, including the Trump Administration’s expanded Gag Rule, women in conflict are regularly denied the medical - [Statement on the US Decision to Withdraw from the UN Human Rights Council](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/statement-on-the-us-decision-to-withdraw-from-the-un-human-rights-council/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 19, 2018 [New York] – Today’s decision to withdraw from the UN Human Rights Council is shortsighted and will further marginalize the United States in the international arena. The Council is an important venue to address the human rights records of all countries, including the United States. Just yesterday, the UN High - [Statement on the Creation of the IIIM for Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/statement-on-the-creation-of-the-iiim-for-myanmar/) - The Global Justice Center applauds the Human Rights Council for acting where others have not in creating an International Impartial and Independent Mechanism (IIIM) for Myanmar. This is an important step towards addressing the total impunity for the decades of crimes committed by the military. While it is imperative to collect evidence, without a court - [Human Rights Organizations Issue Joint Submission to CEDAW Committee Ahead of Myanmar Review](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/human-rights-organizations-issue-joint-submission-to-cedaw-committee-ahead-of-myanmar-review/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – February 22, 2019 [NEW YORK, NY] – Today, the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (“Committee”) will meet to discuss Myanmar’s Exceptional Report on the situation of Rohingya women and girls from northern Rakhine State. The Committee requested the Exceptional Report months after Myanmar’s Security Forces launched a massive - [The Global Justice Center Mourns Lenora Lapidus](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/the-global-justice-center-mourns-lenora-lapidus/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – May 6, 2019 [NEW YORK, NY] – The Global Justice Center mourns the passing of Lenora Lapidus, Director of the ACLU Women’s Rights Project and member of the Global Justice Center’s Board of Directors. She passed away at home on May 5, 2019, after a long battle with cancer. Lenora was - [Response to Proposed United States Strategy on Women, Peace and Security](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/response-to-proposed-united-states-strategy-on-women-peace-and-security/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE— June 13, 2019 [NEW YORK, NY] - This week, the Trump Administration released the United States government’s latest strategy on women, peace and security (“WPS”). While it contains lofty goals to advance women’s equality and political participation, these objectives are directly undermined by current US policies. “The Trump Administration’s stated commitment to - [Statement on the Formation of the “Commission on Unalienable Rights"](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/statement-on-the-formation-of-the-commission-on-unalienable-rights/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - July 9, 2019 [NEW YORK, NY] — Yesterday morning, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced the formation of a new “Commission on Unalienable Rights” at the State Department, which Secretary Pompeo described as an attempt to “ground our discussion of human rights in America’s founding principles.” The establishment of this panel is - [Statement on United Nations Fact-Finding Mission Report on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/statement-on-united-nations-fact-finding-mission-report-on-sexual-and-gender-based-violence/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE NEW YORK — The United Nations Fact-Finding Mission on Myanmar today released a report documenting and analyzing sexual and gender-based violence committed by the country’s military, the Tatmadaw. The report represents the mission’s first thorough examination of gender-based crimes in Burma. The mission’s report describes in detail the widespread and systemic use - [UN Fact-Finding Mission on Myanmar Documents Genocide and Calls for International Justice in Final Report](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/un-fact-finding-mission-on-myanmar-documents-genocide-and-calls-for-international-justice-in-final-report/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE NEW YORK — Today the United Nations Fact-Finding Mission on Myanmar released its final report, summarizing its investigation into what it called “the gravest crimes under international law” committed against vulnerable populations in the country, including the Rohingya. The report explicitly calls for international legal accountability for violations of the Genocide Convention. - [The Gambia Files Lawsuit Against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/the-gambia-files-lawsuit-against-myanmar-at-the-international-court-of-justice/) - NEW YORK — Today the government of the Republic of Gambia filed a lawsuit at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) against the Republic of the Union of Myanmar for violating its obligations under the Genocide Convention. This historic lawsuit seeks to ensure Myanmar’s responsibility as a state for the genocide committed against the Rohingya. - [Hearings Begin in Genocide Case Against Myanmar at World Court](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/hearings-begin-in-genocide-case-against-myanmar-at-world-court/) - THE HAGUE – The International Court of Justice is holding its first hearing today in the case filed by The Gambia against Myanmar for the genocide of the Rohingya. The Gambia will deliver arguments on their request for provisional measures, which would impose immediately binding obligations on Myanmar. For more on these measures, please see - [Aung San Suu Kyi Delivers Opening Arguments in Genocide Case at World Court](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/aung-san-suu-kyi-delivers-opening-arguments-in-genocide-case-at-world-court/) - THE HAGUE – Myanmar State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi delivered opening arguments today at the International Court of Justice in the genocide case against Myanmar filed by The Gambia. Suu Kyi and Myanmar are responding to The Gambia’s request for provisional measures, which would impose immediately binding obligations on Myanmar. For more on these - [Myanmar “Independent” Commission on Rohingya Violence Submits Final Report](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/myanmar-independent-commission-on-rohingya-violence-submits-final-report/) - Report Confirms Human Rights Experts’ Charges that Commission Won’t Provide Real Accountability NEW YORK – The Independent Commission of Enquiry (ICOE), established by the Government of Myanmar to investigate human rights abuses in Rakhine State, submitted its final report to Myanmar’s government today. The full report is not yet public and its submission comes days - [World Court Orders Myanmar to Take Immediate Action to Prevent Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/world-court-orders-myanmar-to-take-immediate-action-to-prevent-genocide/) - THE HAGUE — The International Court of Justice today ordered Myanmar to take immediate action to prevent genocide. The “provisional measures” require Myanmar to prevent genocidal acts, ensure military and police forces do not commit genocidal acts, preserve all evidence of genocidal acts, and report on compliance with these provisional measures. The measures are also - [UN Secretary-General Delivers Call to Action on Human Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/un-secretary-general-delivers-call-to-action-on-human-rights/) - NEW YORK – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres delivered a call to action today on human rights in an address to the Human Rights Council. Akila Radhakrishnan, president of the Global Justice Center, had the following response: "The Secretary-General’s call to action is a welcome effort to re-center human rights into the work of the - [UN Special Rapporteur on Myanmar Releases Final Report](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/un-special-rapporteur-on-myanmar-releases-final-report/) - NEW YORK – Yanghee Lee, United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar, released an advance version of her final report today. Lee was appointed by the UN Human Rights Council in 2014. Grant Shubin, legal director of the Global Justice Center, had the following response: “Special Rapporteur Lee has been - [UN Secretary-General Delivers Address on Violence Against Women During COVID-19 Quarantine](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/un-secretary-general-delivers-address-on-violence-against-women-during-covid-19-quarantine/) - NEW YORK – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres gave an address today on violence against women living under quarantine measures issued to stop the spread of COVID-19. Akila Radhakrishnan, president of the Global Justice Center, had the following response: “We applaud the Secretary-General for his important call today to end violence against women, which recognizes one - [UN Secretary-General Releases Report on Impact of COVID-19 on Women](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/un-secretary-general-releases-report-on-impact-of-covid-19-on-women/) - NEW YORK – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres released a report today on the impact of COVID-19 on women and girls. Akila Radhakrishnan, president of the Global Justice Center, issued the following statement: “UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has taken important leadership to highlight the gendered impact of COVID-19, first with his call to prevent violence against - [United Nations Secretary-General Releases Policy Brief on Human Rights & COVID-19](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/united-nations-secretary-general-releases-policy-brief-on-human-rights-covid-19/) - NEW YORK – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres released a policy brief today on human rights and COVID-19. Akila Radhakrishnan, president of the Global Justice Center, had the following response: “The secretary-general’s policy brief on human rights in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic is an important reminder of why and how human rights need - [Myanmar to Report to World Court on Compliance with Order to Prevent Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/myanmar-to-report-to-world-court-on-compliance-with-order-to-prevent-genocide/) - NEW YORK — Myanmar will submit its first report to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on its compliance with an order to prevent and not commit genocide against the Rohingya this Saturday. The reporting obligations are one of the “provisional measures” issued by the ICJ in January. Myanmar is required to report to the - [Ahead of Expected July 4th Report, Human Rights Orgs Advance Case to End Sec. Pompeo’s Unlawful Commission on Human Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/ahead-of-expected-july-4th-report-human-rights-orgs-advance-case-to-end-sec-pompeo-s-unlawful-commission-on-human-rights/) - Commission Appears Poised to Reshape American Foreign Policy, Recommend Stripping Protections for Women, LGBTQ+ Communities Abroad Under Guise of Religious Freedom In Response to Litigation, Trump Admin Releases Limited Commission Meeting Records; Continues to Shield Commission from Public View Washington, D.C. — A coalition of human rights organizations advanced their suit against Secretary of State Mike Pompeo for - [Coalition of Groups File Brief in Support of Lawsuit Challenging Sec. Pompeo’s Commission on Unalienable Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/coalition-of-groups-file-brief-in-support-of-lawsuit-challenging-sec-pompeo-s-commission-on-unalienable-rights/) - Amici Charge The Commission Is Unlawful, Misunderstands Human Rights Law, and Will Harm the Marginalized Groups They Work On Behalf Of Ongoing Lawsuit Seeks to Shut Down the Unlawful Commission Ahead of Expected July 4th Report New York, N.Y. — Six human rights organizations submitted a “friend of the court” brief in support of the - [United Nations Security Council Elects New Members](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/united-nations-security-council-elects-new-members/) - NEW YORK — The United Nations Security Council held elections yesterday for five non-permanent seats on the council. Mexico, India, Ireland, Kenya, and Norway were elected for two-year terms. Grant Shubin, legal director of the Global Justice Center, had the following response: “We congratulate the new members on their election today and look forward to - [US Supreme Court Upholds Speech Restriction on NGOs](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/us-supreme-court-upholds-speech-restriction-on-ngos/) - NEW YORK — The United States Supreme Court today ruled that foreign affiliates of American non-governmental organizations (NGOs) can be required to oppose sex work as a condition of funding. The ruling therefore holds that these affiliates, and the Americans who speak through them, have no First Amendment rights. The policy upheld today is similar - [UN Secretary-General Releases Report on Conflict-Related Sexual Violence](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/un-secretary-general-releases-report-on-conflict-related-sexual-violence/) - NEW YORK — United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres released a report this week on sexual violence in conflict. It is the 11th report on the issue since the creation of the secretary-general’s Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict in 2010. Grant Shubin, legal director of the Global Justice Center, issued the following statement: “The - [Sec. Pompeo and State Dept.’s Unlawful Commission Flouted Federal Law — Their New “Human Rights” Report Must Be Set Aside](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/sec-pompeo-and-state-dept-s-unlawful-commission-flouted-federal-law-their-new-human-rights-report-must-be-set-aside/) - Human Rights Groups Issue Statement in Response to Today’s Release of the Commission on Unalienable Rights’ Report Washington, D.C. — This afternoon, Secretary Pompeo and his Commission on Unalienable Rights released their report on human rights at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, despite the health concerns of holding an in-person event during the coronavirus pandemic. - [Statement in Solidarity and Support of the Rohingya Community: The Need for Justice and Accountability](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/statement-in-solidarity-and-support-of-the-rohingya-community-the-need-for-justice-and-accountability/) - Originally posted at Asia Justice Coalition Three years after the Myanmar military launched its campaign involving acts amounting to crimes against humanity and acts the UN's Fact-Finding Mission determined may amount to genocide against its Rohingya Muslim citizens, the Asia Justice Coalition today joins the Rohingya community in remembering and honouring their victims and survivors. - [Canada and the Netherlands to Intervene in Myanmar Genocide Case at World Court](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/canada-and-the-netherlands-to-intervene-in-myanamar-genocide-case-at-world-court/) - NEW YORK — The governments of Canada and the Netherlands today announced their intention to intervene in the genocide case against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice. In a joint statement, the foreign ministries of both governments said the move furthers their solemn pledge to prevent genocide and hold those responsible to account. They also - [Global Justice Center Mourns the Death of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/global-justice-center-mourns-the-death-of-justice-ruth-bader-ginsburg/) - NEW YORK — Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg died today due to complications of metastatic pancreas cancer. She was 87 years old. Akila Radhakrishnan, President of the Global Justice Center, issued the following statement: “Justice Ginsburg was an inspiration to us all. As feminist attorneys fighting for equal protection of the law for women - [Trump Administration Launches Declaration Attacking Human Right to Abortion Access](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/trump-administration-launches-declaration-attacking-human-right-to-abortion-access/) - NEW YORK — US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo today signed a declaration opposing the human right to abortion access and elevating notions of the traditional family and motherhood. The “Geneva Consensus Declaration” was initiated by the US and was co-sponsored by Brazil, Egypt, Hungary, Indonesia, Uganda, and signed by 32 countries. Akila Radhakrishnan, President - [UN Security Council Resolution on Gender Equality Fails After Major Countries Abstain](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/un-security-council-resolution-on-gender-equality-fails-after-major-countries-abstain/) - NEW YORK — A United Nations Security Council resolution on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) failed to pass today after 10 countries abstained from the vote because the resolution failed to advance the agenda. The resolution effort was led by Russia, the Security Council president during the month of October. The countries abstained after the - [Myanmar Files Second Report to World Court on Compliance with Order to Protect Rohingya](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/myanmar-files-second-report-to-world-court-on-compliance-with-order-to-protect-rohingya/) - NEW YORK —The government of Myanmar today filed its second report to the International Court of Justice on compliance with the court’s order to protect Rohingya from genocide. The report will not be made public at this time. The court issued its “provisional measures” order in January. It required Myanmar to prevent genocidal acts, ensure - [United States Designates China’s Treatment of Uyghurs as Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/united-states-designates-china-s-treatment-of-uyghurs-as-genocide/) - NEW YORK — The United States today declared China’s government is committing genocide and other international crimes against the Uyghurs, a largely Muslim ethnic minority living in western China. In the past, President-elect Joe Biden has also deemed the repression of Uyghurs genocide. Grant Shubin, legal director of the Global Justice Center, issued the following statement: “The United States - [Biden Administration Repeals Global Gag Rule](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/biden-administration-repeals-global-gag-rule/) - NEW YORK — The Biden administration today rescinded the Global Gag Rule (also known as the “Mexico City Policy”'). It also ordered a review of the Trump administration’s “domestic gag rule,” which bars organizations participating in the Title X family planning program from providing abortion services. First ordered by President Reagan in 1984, the Global - [Military Stages Coup in Burma](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/military-stages-coup-in-myanmar/) - NEW YORK — Myanmar’s military, the Tatmadaw, seized power today in Burma following days of threats. State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi was arrested along with many other political figures and government critics. The Tatmadaw handed power over to Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, its Commander-in-Chief, and declared a state of emergency lasting one year. - [Frmr. Sec. Pompeo’s “Commission on Unalienable Rights” Cannot Evade Accountability After Breaking Federal Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/frmr-sec-pompeo-s-commission-on-unalienable-rights-cannot-evade-accountability-after-breaking-federal-law/) - Originally posted by Democracy Forward Human Rights Orgs Press Lawsuit Over Commission’s Failure to Follow Transparency Law New York, N.Y. — On Friday, four international human rights groups — Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights, the Center for Health and Gender Equity (CHANGE), the Council for Global Equality, and the Global Justice Center, represented by Democracy Forward - [UN Security Council Issues Statement on Myanmar Coup](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/un-security-council-issues-statement-on-myanmar-coup/) - NEW YORK — The United Nations Security Council issued a press statement today in response to the military coup in Myanmar. The statement, drafted by current council president the United Kingdom, follows days of strained negotiations between council members. Akila Radhakrishnan, president of the Global Justice Center, had the following reaction: “It is some relief - [UN Human Rights Council Passes Resolution on Myanmar Coup](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/un-human-rights-council-passes-resolution-on-myanmar-coup/) - NEW YORK — The United Nations Human Rights Council today passed a resolution on human rights concerns in Myanmar following the military coup. The resolution followed an emergency session requested by the United Kingdom and the European Union. The resolution, adopted by consensus, denounced the coup and the violations of civil and human rights that - [Myanmar Representative to UN Denounces Coup and Urges Security Council Action](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/myanmar-representative-to-un-denounces-coup-and-urges-security-council-action/) - NEW YORK — During a briefing before the United Nations General Assembly today, Myanmar’s representative to the United Nations, Kyaw Moe Tun, denounced the coup carried out by his country’s military. He also urged the UN Security Council and international community to use “any means necessary” to hold the military accountable. Akila Radhakrishnan, president of - [Akila Radhakrishnan Named in List of Top 100 Influencers in Gender Policy](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/akila-radhakrishnan-named-in-list-of-top-100-influencers-in-gender-policy/) - NEW YORK — In a list launched today, Global Justice Center President Akila Radhakrishnan was named by Apolitical as one of the world's 100 most influential people in gender policy in 2021. This year's list includes prominent feminist politicians, activists, and academics such as Jacinda Arden, Patricia Viseur Sellers, Stella Nyanzi, Dr Tlaleng Mofokeng, and many more. Akila was - [140+ Organizations Demand Biden Administration Implement International Recommendations on Sexual and Reproductive Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/140-organizations-demand-biden-administration-implement-international-recommendations-on-sexual-and-reproductive-rights/) - More than 140 organizations signed onto a letter sent to President Biden today urging him to implement recommendations on sexual and reproductive rights issued by United Nations member states. The recommendations came as part of the UN Human Rights Council’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR), a process that reviews the human rights records of all UN Member States. - [​​​​​​​200+ NGOs Call on UN Security Council to Impose Global Arms Embargo on Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/200-ngos-call-on-un-security-council-to-impose-global-arms-embargo-on-myanmar/) - NEW YORK — Over 200 nongovernmental organizations from around the world today called on the United Nations Security Council to immediately impose a global arms embargo on Myanmar in response to the military coup and ensuing human rights abuses. Akila Radhakrishnan, president of the Global Justice Center, issued the following statement: “The urgency of a - [UN General Assembly Passes Resolution on Myanmar Coup](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/un-general-assembly-passes-resolution-on-myanmar-coup/) - NEW YORK — The United Nations General Assembly today passed a resolution addressing the military coup in Myanmar. It is the first resolution from the general assembly since the coup on February 1. This resolution comes on the same day of a closed-door briefing on Myanmar at the UN Security Council. The Council has issued - [Press Conference: Women Leaders of Burma/Myanmar Disappointed with International Community](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/press-conference-women-leaders-of-burma-myanmar-disappointed-with-international-community/) - At a virtual press conference held today, women of Burma/Myanmar demanded greater accountability from ASEAN and the international community in their response to the recent military coup in the country. Since the coup, the armed and security forces have waged systemic gender-based violence and sexual violence against women, especially within the ethnic community. Naw Hser - [Statement on Tina Tchen Following Reports of Involvement with Effort to Discredit Survivor of Sexual Harassment by NY Governor Andrew Cuomo](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/statement-on-tina-tchen-following-reports-of-involvement-with-effort-to-discredit-survivor-of-sexual-harassment-by-ny-governor-andrew-cuomo/) - In May of 2019, the Global Justice Center awarded Tina Tchen with a “Feminist Changemaker” award for her work on women’s rights under the Obama administration. We are deeply saddened and disappointed at recent reports of Tchen’s involvement in efforts to discredit a survivor of sexual harassment by New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. We stand - [Civil society welcomes the UN General Assembly’s decision to reject the Myanmar military junta, urges the UN to cease all forms of cooperation that lend them legitimacy](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/civil-society-welcomes-the-un-general-assembly-s-decision-to-reject-the-myanmar-military-junta-urges-the-un-to-cease-all-forms-of-cooperation-that-lend-them-legitimacy/) - Today, the UN General Assembly adopted the recommendations made by the Credentials Committee of the UN to defer the decision on who will represent Myanmar at the UN. The decision constitutes a clear rejection of the illegal Myanmar military junta’s application for credentials to the UN, leaving U Kyaw Moe Tun, the current Permanent Representative - [New Hearings Announced in Genocide Case Against Myanmar at World Court](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/new-hearings-announced-in-genocide-case-against-myanmar-at-world-court/) - NEW YORK — Reports surfaced today that the International Court of Justice will hold hearings on February 21 in The Gambia’s case against Myanmar for the 2017 genocide of the Rohingya. The hearings — the first since last year’s military coup — will consider Myanmar’s “preliminary objections” to the case. Preliminary objections are typically filed - [Q&A: Rohingya Genocide Case Steps Toward Justice](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/q-a-rohingya-genocide-case-steps-toward-justice/) - International Court of Justice (ICJ) hearings beginning February 21, 2022 underline the critical importance of bringing justice for the Myanmar military’s abuses against ethnic Rohingya, Human Rights Watch and the Global Justice Center said today. The groups released a question-and-answer document outlining recent developments in the case, including the impact of the February 1, 2021 - [United States to Designate Crimes Against Rohingya as Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/united-states-to-designate-crimes-against-rohingya-as-genocide/) - NEW YORK — Reports surfaced today that the United States will formally determine that atrocities committed against the Rohingya minority by Myanmar’s military in northern Rakhine State amount to genocide and crimes against humanity. The Biden administration will officially announce the designation tomorrow. Akila Radhakrishnan, President of the Global Justice Center, issued the following statement: - [US Supreme Court Reportedly Set to Repeal Constitutional Right to Abortion](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/us-supreme-court-reportedly-set-to-repeal-constitutional-right-to-abortion/) - NEW YORK — A majority opinion from the US Supreme Court that was leaked to the press shows a vote to overturn Roe v. Wade, the core legal precedent establishing the right to abortion in the United States. The court has not yet issued its official ruling and abortion remains legal in the United States. - [US Supreme Court Repeals Constitutional Right to Abortion](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/us-supreme-court-repeals-constitutional-right-to-abortion/) - NEW YORK — The United States Supreme Court today repealed the constitutional right to abortion. The ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization allows Mississippi’s 15-week abortion ban to remain in place and explicitly overturns decades of precedent set by the Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey decisions that prevented states from - [International Court of Justice Rejects Procedural Objections From Myanmar in Genocide Case](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/international-court-of-justice-rejects-procedural-objections-from-myanmar-in-genocide-case/) - NEW YORK — The International Court of Justice today issued a ruling that rejected “preliminary objections” raised by Myanmar in its genocide case. The case brought by The Gambia to hold Myanmar accountable for its 2017 genocide of the Rohingya will now move on to the merits phase. Preliminary objections are typically filed to raise - [New Report Provides First Comprehensive Legal Analysis of the Role of Gender in Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/groundbreaking-legal-analysis-of-gender-based-crimes-in-rakhine-state/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – December 7, 2018 [New York] – Today, the Global Justice Center (GJC) released the first comprehensive legal analysis of the gender-based crimes of genocide. Over the past four years, the world has witnessed at least two genocidal campaigns—against the Yazidis in Iraq and against the Rohingya in Myanmar. Widespread sexual and gender-based violence - [Statement on Nobel Peace Prize Award to Nadia Murad and Dr. Denis Mukwege](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/nobel-peace-prize-awarded-to-nadia-murad-and-dr-denis-mukwege/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – October 5, 2018 The Global Justice Center commends the Nobel Committee’s decision to award Nadia Murad and Dr. Denis Mukwege with the 2018 Nobel Peace Prize, honoring their work to end rape and sexual violence as a weapon of war. Ms. Murad and Dr. Mukwege have each displayed remarkable bravery and determination, - [Akila Radhakrishnan Named President of the Global Justice Center](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/akila-radhakrishnan-named-president-of-the-global-justice-center/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 13, 2018 [NEW YORK] The Global Justice Center’s Board of Directors is thrilled to announce that Akila Radhakrishnan has been named the President of the Global Justice Center (GJC). Ms. Radhakrishnan has worked at the Global Justice Center since 2010, most recently serving as the organization’s Vice-President and Legal Director. - [GJC Founder and President Janet Benshoof Steps Down](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/janet-benshoof-transition/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - December 18, 2017 [NEW YORK] The Founder and President of the Global Justice Center, Janet Benshoof, has stepped down from her role as President of the organization. Although planning for this transition has been ongoing for the past year, because Ms. Benshoof has taken an emergency medical leave of absence, we - [The Global Justice Center Calls for Action on the International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/862-the-global-justice-center-calls-for-action-on-the-international-day-of-commemoration-and-dignity-of-the-victims-of-the-crime-of-genocide-and-of-the-prevention-of-this-crime/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - December 9, 2017 [NEW YORK] Today, on the International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime, the Global Justice Center warns that the promise of “Never Again” is being broken in conflicts around the world in places such - [G20: Women’s rights are not a political bargaining tool](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/g20-women-s-rights-are-not-a-political-bargaining-tool/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - July 8, 2017 [NEW YORK, NY] - On the occasion of the G20 Summit on June 8 and 9th, 2017 in Hamburg, Germany, the Global Justice Center renews its calls to world leaders to uphold international law safeguarding the rights of women and girls. One of the priorities of the G20 Summit - [Statement by the Global Justice Center on the International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/statement-by-the-gjc-international-victims-day/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE— January 27 2017 “For evil to flourish, it only requires good men to do nothing." - Simon Wiesenthal [NEW YORK] – Today, on the International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust, the Global Justice Center calls on the international community to remember Holocaust victims by standing up to - [GJC Rises for V-Day's One Billion Rising Campaign to End Gender Violence](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/gjc-rises-for-v-day-s-one-billion-rising-campaign-to-end-gender-violence/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - February 14, 2013 [NEW YORK, NY] – Today, the Global Justice Center rises. We support V-Day and its One Billion Rising campaign to end violence against girls and women. One in three women will be subjected gender-based violence in their lifetime, including sexualized violence. That’s one billion women. The time to end this - [New Report Exposes Critical Gaps in Burma’s National Gender Equality Plan](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/new-report-exposes-critical-gaps/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 15, 2015 [NEW YORK, NY] – Women will never enjoy equal rights in Burma without dismantling structural barriers to gender equality, such as limitations in the 2008 Constitution, an antiquated legal system, and the ongoing legacy of a male-dominated military leadership, according to a report released today by the Global - [GJC Hosts High-Level Panel on Sexual Violence in Burma at the United Nations](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/gjc-hosts-high-level-panel-on-sexual-violence-in-burma-at-the-united-nations-228/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – April 30, 2014 [NEW YORK, NY] – On Thursday, April 24 2014, the Global Justice Center, together with the Nobel Women’s Initiative, Amnesty International and the NGO Working Group on Women, Peace and Security hosted a side event to the Security Council Open Debate on Conflict-Related Sexual Violence. The interactive panel included distinguished - [Systematic Sexual Violence in Burma’s Ethnic Areas: New Report](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/systematic-sexual-violence-in-burma-s-ethnic-areas-new-report-227/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - January 13, 2014 [RANGOON, CHIANG MAI/ NEW YORK, NY] - Today marks the launch of an important new report documenting ongoing crimes of sexual violence—over 100 cases documented since 2010, including 47 gang rapes—perpetrated by the Burmese military in ethnic regions of Burma. The Women’s League of Burma (WLB), consisting of thirteen - [The August 12th Campaign: Urge President Obama to Rescind the Abortion Restrictions Placed on All Us Humanitarian Aid for Girls and Women Raped in Armed Conflict](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/the-august-12th-campaign-urge-president-obama-to-rescind-the-abortion-restrictions-placed-on-all-us-humanitarian-aid-for-girls-and-women-raped-in-armed-conflict/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – July, 2011 GJC President Janet Benshoof: “The “no abortion” policy, attached to all US humanitarian aid for victims of rape in armed conflicts, is both deadly and illegal. Now is the time to pressure President Obama to bring the U.S. in compliance with the Geneva Conventions by lifting this ban which - [Historic Opportunity for Women of South Sudan](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/gjc-women-south-sudan/) - Check out a press release of GJC providing critical expertise to ensure that South Sudan's new constitution includes internationally guaranteed equality rights for women. Download here - [The Global Justice Center Announces the Establishment of the Michael Sandler Fund for Global Justice, in honor of Founding Board Chair Michael Sandler](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/the-global-justice-center-announces-the-establishment-of-the-michael-sandler-fund-for-global-justice-in-honor-of-founding-board-chair-michael-sandler/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 8, 2009 [NEW YORK, NY] - The Global Justice Center proudly announces the establishment of the Michael Sandler Fund for Global Justice. Michael Sandler was the Founding Board Chair of the Global Justice Center and gave $650,000 to support pre-founding pilot projects and the initial start up funding to the Center. In just - [The Global Justice Center regretfully announces the passing of Board President, Michael Sandler. The position of Interim Board President will be filled by Anne Firth Murray, Stanford professor, human rights expert, and Founding President of the Global Fun](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/the-global-justice-center-regretfully-announces-the-passing-of-board-president-michael-sandler-the-position-of-interim-board-president-will-be-filled-by-anne-firth-murray-stanford-professor-human-righ/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - February 5, 2008 [NEW YORK, NY] – Michael Sandler, Board President of the Global Justice Center, died this past Saturday. He was the founding President of the Board and he will be missed by his family, friends, and colleagues. Anne Firth Murray has accepted the role of Interim Board President. Ms. Murray joins - [Janet Benshoof Addresses the Women’s Bar Association Gala in Boston, MA](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/press/janet-benshoof-addresses-the-women-s-bar-association-gala-in-boston-ma/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 17, 2096 [NEW YORK, NY] – Janet Benshoof, Director and Founder of New York-based NGO Global Justice Center, presented the keynote address at the Women’s Bar Association (WBA) Gala on October 17, 2006. Approximately 1000 members of the legal community attended the event held at the Westin Copley Place Hotel in Boston. Benshoof ## Events - [Building the Vision: Feminist Pathways to a Crimes Against Humanity Treaty](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/building-the-vision-feminist-pathways-to-a-crimes-against-humanity-treaty/) - See original post by Women's Initiative for Gender Justice A once-in-a-generation Crimes Against Humanity convention is on the table. Join us for a 90-minute participatory session where Women Deliver delegates will co-author an intersectional feminist agenda for the treaty negotiations — moving the process from technical negotiations into the hands of survivors, Indigenous peoples, gender-diverse - [Accountability for Grave Human Rights Violations in Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/accountability-for-grave-human-rights-violations-in-myanmar/) - Launching the Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar’s conference room paper outlining pathways to accountability for grave human rights violations in Myanmar. - [Voices from Grassroots Women Peacebuilders](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/voices-from-grassroots-women-peacebuilders/) - Side event about women's and girl's access to legal systems and justice in Myanmar in 2026 post sham election. - [Feminist Mobilization to Ensure Gender Justice in the Crimes Against Humanity Convention](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/feminist-mobilization-to-ensure-gender-justice-in-the-crimes-against-humanity-convention/) - This town hall event features feminist experts, activists, and movements in the upcoming effort to ensure the crimes against humanity treaty is gender-sensitive, intersectional, and survivor-centered. - [Myanmar's WPS Implementation and Justice Pathways](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/csw70-side-event-myanmars-wps-implementation-and-justice-pathways/) - This CSW70 side event focused on the implementation of the Women, Peace, and Security agenda in Myanmar and pathways for achieving justice for victims. - [Access to Justice for Reproductive Violence](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/access-to-justice-for-reproductive-violence/) - This CSW70 side event will discuss reproductive violence, a distinct and often overlooked form of gender-based violence. Survivors of reproductive violence have a right to justice. This panel will also explore efforts to document and advance accountability for reproductive violence, including in Afghanistan, Gaza, Myanmar, and Peru. - [Workshop: Civil Society and the Crimes Against Humanity Treaty](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/csw70-crimes-against-humanity-treaty/) - This CSW70 side event will be a detailed look for civil society at the landmark Crimes Against Humanity treaty effort. Participants will discuss opportunities to engage with the treaty, with particular attention to advancing gender justice. - [Abortion Provision as an Expression of Conscience, Religion, or Belief](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/abortion-provision-as-an-expression-of-conscience-religion-or-belief/) - While conscientious objection to abortion has received significant attention from advocates, researchers, and human rights experts, substantially less attention has been paid to the provision and support of abortion and/or pregnancy-related decision-making as an expression of conscience, religion, or belief. This webinar flips the script and focuses on how abortion provision and support, as well - [Workshop: Civil Society and the Crimes Against Humanity Treaty](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/workshop-civil-society-and-the-crimes-against-humanity-treaty/) - A detailed look for civil society at the landmark treaty effort in the margins of the ICC Assembly of States Parties session. Participants will discuss opportunities to engage with the treaty, with particular attention to advancing gender justice. - [Facilitating implementation of obligations under the CAH Convention – Gaps and Opportunities](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/facilitating-implementation-of-obligations-under-the-cah-convention-gaps-and-opportunities/) - [Advancing Justice for Myanmar: Landmark Hearings at the International Court of Justice](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/advancing-justice-for-myanmar-landmark-hearings-at-the-international-court-of-justice/) - As the International Court of Justice (ICJ) convened merits hearings in the historic case of The Gambia v. Myanmar, this event provided an opportunity for reflection upon the significance and potential impact of progress in the case. The event highlighted voices of the Rohingya community and provided insight into the case’s meaning for international justice - [International Standards on Conscientious Objection in Sexual and Reproductive Health Care](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/international-standards-on-conscientious-objection-in-sexual-and-reproductive-health-care/) - Join Human Rights Watch, Centro de Estudios de Estado y Sociedad, and Red de Accesso al Aborto Seguro de Argentina for a conversation on conscientious objection in sexual and reproductive health care. - [The Peoples' UPR 2025](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/the-peoples-upr-2025/) - The United States announced on August 29, 2025, that it will not participate in the Universal Periodic Review for this fourth cycle, nor submit its report, which would be due in November. The announcement was made during the UPR’s Info Pre-Session by Juliette de Rivero, Chief of the UPR Branch of the United Nations High Commissioner Rights. This would mark the first time in UPR history that a UN Member State does not participate. The withdrawal from the UPR is still under consideration within the Bureau of the Human Rights Council. Although the government has decided on its own that participation in the UPR is not necessary, the People’s UPR will ensure that civil society voices are illuminated. This also follows an executive order by President Trump on February 4, 2025, to withdraw from international organizations, including the United Nations Human Rights Council. - [Advancing Gender Justice and Accountability through the Women, Peace and Security Agenda](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/advancing-gender-justice-and-accountability-through-the-women-peace-and-security-agenda/) - The 25th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 (2000) presents an important opportunity to take stock of achievements for gender justice through the WPS agenda, and the Gender Justice Platform in particular, and consider strategies and partnerships that will accelerate progress. By reflecting on lessons learned from diverse contexts, the event aims to deepen understanding of how gender justice can be effectively integrated into peace and security efforts. - [Conscientious Objection in the U.S. Amidst Diminishing Abortion Rights and Access Across the Country](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/conscientious-objection-in-the-u-s-amidst-diminishing-abortion-rights-and-access-across-the-country/) - This webinar explored the various laws and policies that permit widespread conscientious objection to abortion care in the US, the lived experiences of pregnant persons who have been denied care or faced detrimental delays in care, and legal, policy, and human rights strategies to challenge unchecked and unregulated conscientious objection to abortion. - [Resilience, Resistance, and Solidarity: Voices of Myanmar’s Women and Minorities](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/resilience-resistance-and-solidarity-voices-of-myanmars-women-and-minorities/) - This event, timed to coincide with the UN General Assembly High-Level Week on Rohingya and other minorities in Myanmar, seeks to bring the voices of brave women, girls, and gender-diverse individuals to the international stage, reminding global leaders of their commitments to human rights, accountability, and protection for minorities, on the cusp of the 25th anniversary week of the WPS Framework. - [Restitution for Loss of Land and Property: Pursuing Justice and Peace for the Rohingya](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/restitution-for-loss-of-land-and-property-pursuing-justice-and-peace-for-the-rohingya/) - Held on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly’s High-Level Conference on the Situation of Rohingya Muslims and Other Minorities in Myanmar, this side event will: Highlight new evidence from the IIMM’s forthcoming report on the systematic destruction and dispossession of Rohingya land and property during the 2017 clearance operations. - [Ending the Rohingya Crisis: community-centered actions for a path toward lasting peace in Rakhine State and across Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/ending-the-rohingya-crisis-community-centered-actions-for-a-path-toward-lasting-peace-in-rakhine-state-and-across-myanmar/) - this side event will entail high-level remarks and a panel discussion on the Rohingya crisis, which will evaluate international and regional responses to the crisis taken thus far; and discuss novel solutions to effectively end the crisis – including genocide – such that lasting peace among the key stakeholders can be established in Myanmar. - [Prospects and Strategies for Gender Equal Justice and Accountability for the Rohingya and Other Minorities](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/prospects-and-strategies-for-gender-equal-justice-and-accountability-for-the-rohingya-and-other-minorities/) - Hosted by Refugee Women for Peace and Justice, Legal Action Worldwide and the Global Justice Center, this event will highlight the disproportionate impacts of the crisis on women and girls and the critical need for gender-sensitive justice and accountability for gross human rights violations, including conflict-related sexual violence. It is organized in connection with the High-level Conference on the Situation of Rohingya Muslims and Other Minorities in Myanmar. - [Conscientious Objection as a Global Barrier to Abortion – Human Rights Norms and Standards to Guide Regulation](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/conscientious-objection-as-a-global-barrier-to-abortion-human-rights-norms-and-standards-to-guide-regulation/) - This webinar will explore the global scope and impact of conscientious objection to abortion, highlight emerging global and national research that demonstrates the impact of unregulated and/or insufficiently regulated conscientious objection to abortion, and provide an overview of international human rights standards around conscientious objection that can be relied upon to promote effective regulation. - [Theory and Concept of Transitional Justice: Connect Myanmar’s Experiences To Global Transitional Justice Frameworks and Promote Inclusive Research and Advocacy](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/theory-and-concept-of-transitional-justice-connect-myanmars-experiences-to-global-transitional-justice-frameworks-and-promote-inclusive-research-and-advocacy/) - Speaker: Professor Elizabeth Wickeri, Executive Director, Leitner Center for International Law and Justice - [Citizens for Global Solutions National Summit: New Solutions to Uphold the Rule of Law and Human Rights Amid Global Threats](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/citizens-for-global-solutions-national-summit-new-solutions-to-uphold-the-rule-of-law-and-human-rights-amid-global-threats/) - In this high-level livestreamed public panel as part of our 2025 National Summit, CGS partners will share their work to catalyze and mobilize in fraught times, including new solutions to meet escalating threats. They will be invited to share how they collaborate with CGS and where they see opportunities and challenges for global governance. - [25th Anniversary of the Women’s International War Crimes Tribunal (WIWCT)](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/25th-anniversary-of-the-womens-international-war-crimes-tribunal-wiwct/) - This year, we celebrate, Honor, and amplify the Groundbreaking Legacy of the Comfort Women and the Women’s International War Crimes Tribunal for the Trial of Japan’s Military Sexual Slavery, marking its 25th Anniversary and reflecting on its impact today. Join us in examining the ongoing fight for justice, reparation, and compensation of the former Comfort Women as we explore how the Tribunal’s fight for justice remains crucial today in addressing war crimes against women in ongoing conflicts worldwide. - [Addressing Gender Apartheid: Towards an Integrated System of Protection](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/addressing-gender-apartheid-towards-an-integrated-system-of-protection/) - The term "gender apartheid" has gained prominence in contexts where the systemic and institutionalized exclusion of individuals based on gender is prevalent. Notably, the situation in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime since 2021 has been characterized by such practices, severely restricting the rights and freedoms of women and girls. This CSW69 Virtual Side Event, “Addressing Gender Apartheid: Towards an Integrated System of Protection,” will explore the concept of gender apartheid, the proposal to gender apartheid in the prospective CAH Treaty, the realities of Afghan women living under gender apartheid, and protection mechanisms for women and girls forcibly displaced from Afghanistan. - [From Documentation to Action: Advancing Accountability for Reproductive Violence](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/from-documentation-to-action-advancing-accountability-for-reproductive-violence/) - Reproductive violence is a form of gender-based violence that interferes with reproductive autonomy and rights, or that targets individuals because of their actual or perceived reproductive capacity. Although it may be associated or co-occur with sexual violence and other forms of gender-based violence (SGBV), it involves distinct harms. This event will explore the challenges and opportunities in documenting reproductive violence with a view to ultimately ensuring greater accountability. - [Gender Justice and the Crimes Against Humanity Treaty Initiative](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/gender-justice-and-the-crimes-against-humanity-treaty-initiative/) - In a historic decision last December, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution that paves the way for negotiations of a new treaty on crimes against humanity, beginning with preparatory sessions in 2026. A treaty would close a crucial gap in the current international framework on mass atrocities. States, activists, survivors, and academics are calling for a gender competent, survivor-centric, and intersectional approach in the development of the treaty. This side event will explore opportunities to advance gender justice in the treaty. - [Beijing+30: Resisting Authoritarianism and Conflict—Myanmar Women's Fight for Rights and Equality](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/beijing30-resisting-authoritarianism-and-conflict-myanmar-womens-fight-for-rights-and-equality/) - As we approach the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, Myanmar’s women and girls continue to face critical challenges that have intensified under the military coup and ongoing conflict since 2021. The rollback of democracy and human rights under authoritarian rule has drastically impacted the lives of Myanmar's women, who have been at the forefront of resistance movements while shouldering the disproportionate burden of violence, displacement, and economic hardship. - [Beijing Platorm for Action 30+ Years and Beyond: A Critical Review and Future Directions for Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/beijing-platorm-for-action-30-years-and-beyond-a-critical-review-and-future-directions-for-myanmar/) - The Beijing Platform for Action (BPFA), adopted in 1995, was a historic milestone in the global agenda for gender equality, aimed at implementing the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). Thirty years later, along with the BPFA framework, new frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 5 on gender equality, and the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) framework have complemented efforts to advance gender equality. The proposed side event will provide an opportunity to contextualize global gender equality efforts within the specific and pressing challenges faced in Myanmar. - [Equality and Non-Discrimination for the Next 30 Years: Advancing Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights in a Changing World](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/equality-and-non-discrimination-for-the-next-30-years-advancing-sexual-and-reproductive-health-and-rights-in-a-changing-world/) - We warmly invite you to a dynamic CSW69 side-event, where we'll explore powerful ways to protect, promote, and fulfill the fundamental human rights of women, girls, and marginalized communities across diverse contexts. In today's complex political landscape, embracing pluralism and diversity isn't just beneficial—it's essential. Our conversation will highlight how pluralistic approaches can foster coexistence, inclusion, and genuine equality, even amid significant challenges. We'll also delve deeper into specific human rights standards, including the crucial intersection between conscientious objection and access to abortion services. - [Towards a new UN Convention for the Prevention and Punishment of Crimes against Humanity](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/towards-a-new-un-convention-for-the-prevention-and-punishment-of-crimes-against-humanity/) - [Gender Justice: Avenues for Ensuring Accountability for Gender-Based Crimes in Afghanistan](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/gender-justice-avenues-for-ensuring-accountability-for-gender-based-crimes-in-afghanistan/) - Since August 2021, the de facto Taliban rulers of Afghanistan have introduced andimplemented over 100 edicts depriving women and girls of their fundamental human rights. Adherence to these laws is violently enforced against women, girls, and anyone who they perceive to transgress gender norms, including LGBTQI+ individuals, and constitutes crimes against humanity, including gender persecution - [Moving Forward to Negotiations on a Global Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Humanity: A Workshop for Civil Society](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/moving-forward-to-negotiations-on-a-global-convention-on-the-prevention-and-punishment-of-crimes-against-humanity-a-workshop-for-civil-society/) - This workshop provided members of civil society attending the Assembly of States Parties with an overview of the Draft Articles and the ongoing process and a forum to strategize on ways forward for civil society engagement and coordination. The workshop aimed to broaden the community of civil society actors who are equipped to engage with - [Roundtable Discussion With Nicholas Koumjian](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/roundtable-discussion-with-nicholas-koumjian/) - [Documenting Reproductive Violence: Challenges and Opportunities for UN Investigative Mechanisms](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/documenting-reproductive-violence-challenges-and-opportunities-for-un-investigative-mechanisms/) - This event launches a new report by the Global Justice Center and UN Women, which analyzes progress, challenges, and opportunities for the documentation of reproductive violence. Through interviews and consultations with gender advisors and SGBV experts, the research identifies barriers and facilitating factors to the documentation by UN investigative mechanisms of this form of violence. The report also analyzes the international law applicable to reproductive violence to illustrate how it can be documented more effectively - [Courage during Crisis: Gendered impacts of the coup and the pursuit of gender equality in Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/courage-during-crisis-gendered-impacts-of-the-coup-and-the-pursuit-of-gender-equality-in-myanmar/) - This public event highlighted findings from the Special Rapporteur’s July 2024 conference room paper, “Courage during Crisis: Gendered Impacts of the Coup and the Pursuit of Gender Equality in Myanmar.” The report details the devastating and widespread impacts on women, girls and LGBT people of the political, economic and humanitarian crisis precipitated by the February - [Towards A Crimes Against Humanity Treaty: An Essential Role for African States](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/towards-a-crimes-against-humanity-treaty-an-essential-role-for-african-states/) - This side event on the draft crimes against humanity treaty was held in Banjul, The Gambia during the 81st African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights. - [U.S. Abortion Law in a Global Context](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/u-s-abortion-law-in-a-global-context/) - An event that examined U.S. abortion restrictions in contrast to global trends toward greater abortion protections. Panelists will look to other countries as well as international human rights norms for clarity – and discuss how to bring international standards to bear in the fight for abortion rights at home. - [Maximising Unity for Accountability Addressing Afghanistan’s Human Rights Crisis](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/maximising-unity-for-accountability-addressing-afghanistans-human-rights-crisis/) - This online event invites the international community to come together ahead of its 57th Session of the UH Human Rights Council to pave an effective way forward to address the ongoing human rights crisis in Afghanistan. - [Gender Expertise and UN Human Rights Investigations: Taking Stock of Achievements & Developing Strategies to Address Emerging Issues](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/gender-expertise-and-un-human-rights-investigations/) - [Reception: Why Government Action Matters on the Crimes Against Humanity Draft Articles](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/reception-why-government-action-matters-on-the-crimes-against-humanity-draft-articles/) - [Addressing the Crisis in Myanmar through the Women, Peace and Security Agenda](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/addressing-the-crisis-in-myanmar-through-the-women-peace-and-security-agenda/) - For the past three years, Myanmar has been torn apart by conflict as a result of the 2021 military coup, which reignited existing ethnic conflicts and sparked wide-spread civilian and armed resistance. The coup was itself enabled by decades of impunity for military abuses and atrocities against civilians, including widespread sexual and gender-based violence. The - [Draft Articles on Crimes Against Humanity: Civil Society Workshop](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/draft-articles-on-crimes-against-humanity-civil-society-workshop/) - UN Member States are currently considering Draft Articles on the Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Humanity. The Draft Articles offer an opportunity to fill a critical gap in international law on mass atrocities and advance gender justice. This workshop provided members of civil society attending the 68th session of the Commission on the Status - [A High-Level Panel Discussion on Gender Apartheid in Afghanistan](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/a-high-level-panel-discussion-on-gender-apartheid-in-afghanistan/) - In collaboration with the Malala Fund and the Atlantic Council, IPI hosted a high-level panel discussion to mark International Women’s Day on March 8th. The event addressed the harrowing reality of millions of women and girls living under systematic oppression at the hands of the Taliban and highlighted the ongoing efforts of Afghan women and - [Draft Articles on Crimes Against Humanity: Civil Society Workshop](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/draft-articles-on-crimes-against-humanity/) - The absence of an international convention on crimes against humanity is a critical gap in the international legal framework deprives populations at serious risk of needed protections, especially as these egregious crimes proliferate regions around the world. On 18 November 2022, the U.N. General Assembly’s Sixth Committee adopted a draft resolution on the International Law - [Human Rights Promoter or Pariah: The United States Record on Abortion](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/human-rights-promoter-or-pariah-the-united-states-record-on-abortion/) - On December 10, the world will commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which forever enshrined the rights to life, health, bodily integrity, non-discrimination, sexual and reproductive rights, and more. Just a week later, reproductive rights activists in the United States will mark 50 years since the passage of the Helms - [Towards a Convention on Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Humanity: Scope, Definitions, National Measures, and Safeguards](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/towards-a-convention-on-prevention-and-punishment-of-crimes-against-humanity-scope-definitions-national-measures-and-safeguards/) - Link to event agenda Session 2: Definitions and General Obligations (Articles 2, 3, 4) Moderator Leila Sadat (James Carr Professor of International Criminal Law, Director, Crimes Against Humanity Initiative, Washington University School of Law) Panelists Sérgio Carvalho (Legal Adviser, Permanent Mission of Portugal to the UN) Richard Dicker (Human Rights Watch) Paloma van Groll (Legal - [Beyond Borders Conference: Reflections on the ICCPR Civil Society Consultation](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/beyond-borders-conference-reflections-on-the-iccpr-civil-society-consultation/) - [Ensuring a Survivor-Centric Approach to Justice and Accountability - from Sudan to Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/ensuring-a-survivor-centric-approach-to-justice-and-accountability-from-sudan-to-myanmar/) - International Criminal Court Assembly of States Parties Side Event Moderator Akila Radhakrishnan, President, Global Justice Center Speakers Ambassador Rein Tammsaar, Permanent Representative, Permanent Mission of Estonia - Opening Remarks Alice Wairimu Nderitu, Under-Secretary-General and Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide Niemat Ahmadi, President and Founder, Darfur Women Action Group Wai Wai Nu, Founder & - [Advancing Towards a Crimes Against Humanity Convention](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/advancing-towards-a-crimes-against-humanity-convention/) - International Criminal Court Assembly of States Parties Side Event Moderator Leila Nadya Sadat, James Carr Professor of International Criminal Law, Washington University School of Law; Director, Crimes Against Humanity Initiative; Visiting Fellow, Yale Law School Speakers H.E. Mr. Rein Tammsaar, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Estonia to the United Nations - [A Renewed UN Approach to Transitional Justice -The Role of Civil Society Organizations](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/a-renewed-un-approach-to-transitional-justice-the-role-of-civil-society-organizations/) - Join us for a panel discussion on the new Secretary-General Guidance Note on Transitional Justice as a Strategic Tool for People, Prevention and Peace and the role of civil society organizations in strengthening transitional justice policy, including in the multilateral space. - [Four Years of Seeking Justice for the Rohingya Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/four-years-of-seeking-justice-for-the-rohingya-genocide/) - Moderator: Akila Radhakrishnan is the President of the Global Justice Centre (GJC). Speakers: Chantal Daniels, International Cooperation Advisor, Office of the Prosecutor, ICC. M. Arsalan Suleman, Foley Hoag, legal counsel to The Gambia in The Gambia v. Myanmar genocide case at the ICJ. Rosalinn Tialte, Chin Human Rights Organisation. Tomás Ojea Quintana, lead legal counsel in - [Healthcare Denied: The Status of Sexual and Reproductive Health in the Wake of the Dobbs Decision](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/healthcare-denied-the-status-of-sexual-and-reproductive-health-in-the-wake-of-the-dobbs-decision/) - [International Criminal Court Roundtables with judicial candidates](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/international-criminal-court-roundtables-with-judicial-candidates/) - Global Justice Center President Akila Radhakrishnan moderated a roundtable with judicial candidates for the International Criminal Court. - [International Law Weekend 2023: Crimes Against Humanity, New Offenses, New Frontiers?](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/international-law-weekend-2023-crimes-against-humanity-new-offenses-new-frontiers/) - This panel will explore recent developments in justice and accountability for crimes against humanity as well as the ongoing efforts to establish a new treaty on crimes against humanity. Recent demands from civil society seek interpretation and possibly amendment of the Rome Statute and other international criminal law texts to fully encompass crimes involving sexual, - [2023 Women's Media Awards](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/2023-womens-media-awards/) - The 2023 Women’s Media Award Honorees are: Mariska Hargitay, Emmy-winning actor, director, producer, activist, Founder & President of the Joyful Heart Foundation, will be honored with the WMC Sisterhood is Powerful Award. Fredricka Whitfield, CNN News anchor, will be honored with the WMC Pat Mitchell Lifetime Achievement Award. Karen Lincoln Michel, President of ICT, formerly Indian Country Today, and - [Centering Threats Based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity in Mass Atrocity Prevention](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/centering-threats-based-on-sexual-orientation-and-gender-identity-in-mass-atrocity-prevention/) - This event, held on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly’s High-Level Week, provides an opportunity to discuss the imperative to integrate sexual orientation & gender identity (SOGI) perspectives through a fully gendered approach into mass atrocity prevention, and consider the challenges and opportunities to doing so. The panel will build on the Security Council’s - [Human Rights Council Side Event: Towards a Crimes Against Humanity Convention](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/human-rights-council-side-event-towards-a-crimes-against-humanity-convention/) - Crimes against humanity are not new – international criminal responsibility for these crimes was first established under the Nuremberg trials and have been incorporated in the statutes of contemporary international tribunals, including the Rome Statute for the International Criminal Court (ICC). However, unlike other crimes under international law, crimes against humanity have not been the - [Rohingya Genocide Commemoration: A time for reflection, inclusivity, and solidarity](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/rohingya-genocide-commemoration-a-time-for-reflection-inclusivity-and-solidarity/) - For the Rohingya Genocide Commemoration, USCB, BROUK, GJC, and UUSC will bring together a panel on the eve of the Rohingya Genocide. This event will not only remember those that were lost during the 2017 genocide, but also the people of Burma still suffering under the Burmese junta today. Our panel will also discuss the - [Human Rights Crisis in the United States: A Year After Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/human-rights-crisis-in-the-united-states-a-year-after-dobbs-v-jackson-womens-health-organization/) - [Menstrual Equity: Period, Policy, and Culture](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/menstrual-equity-period-policy-and-culture/) - Menstrual Equity: Period Policy and Culture is a panel discussion that will explore pending and potential legislation concerning periods, the stigmas and societal discomfort around discussing menstruation, and the importance of recognizing menstrual equity as an essential component of the fight for reproductive justice. Our panelists are at the forefront of the fight for menstrual - [Launch of the Mukwege Foundation's Legal Guidebook on States Obligations for Conflict-related Sexual Violence](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/launch-of-the-mukwege-foundations-legal-guidebook-on-states-obligations-for-conflict-related-sexual-violence/) - Panelists Chloe Marnay-Baszanger, Team Leader, Team of Experts on the Rule of Law and Sexual Violence in Conflict Nadine Tunasi, Survivor Advocate, PSVI Survivor Champion Pauline Brosch, Policy Analyst, UN Women Erin Farrell Rosenberg, Senior Legal and Policy Advisor, Mukwege Foundation Akila Radhakrishnan, President, Global Justice Center - [Preventable Deaths in Cyclone Mocha and the Rohingya Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/preventable-deaths-in-cyclone-mocha-and-the-rohingya-genocide/) - Moderator: Akila Radhakrishnan, President of the Global Justice Center Speakers: Erin Rosenberg: visiting scholar, Urban Morgan Institute for Human Rights M. Arsalan Suleman: Foley Hoag, legal counsel to The Gambia in its case against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice Naw Hser Hser: Standing Committee member of Karen Women’s Organisation (KWO) Tun Khin: President - [50 Years of Ms.: The Pathfinding Magazine that Ignited a Revolution](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/50-years-of-ms-the-pathfinding-magazine-that-ignited-a-revolution/) - Panelists: Akila Radhakrishnan (President, Global Justice Center) Eleanor Smeal (President and cofounder, the Feminist Majority Foundation) Ileana Jimenez (Educator and editor of Feministteacher.com), Kathy Spillar (Executive editor of Ms. and executive director, Feminist Majority Foundation) Premilla Nadasen (Barnard College history professor and Ms. contributor) Cynthia Lopez HC (CEO of New York Women in Film & Television and - [Draft Articles on Crimes Against Humanity: Takeaways and Next Steps for Civil Society](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/draft-articles-on-crimes-against-humanity-takeaways-and-next-steps-for-civil-society/) - On 18 November 2022, the U.N. General Assembly’s Sixth Committee adopted a draft resolution on the International Law Commission (ILC)’s 2019 Draft Articles on Crimes Against Humanity. Co-sponsored by 86 States, the resolution establishes a two-year time frame for the exchange of ‘substantive views’ on ‘all aspects’ of the draft articles, including two ‘intersessional’ resumed - [Catalyzing Change: Ongwen, Sexual and Gender-Based Crimes, and Intersection](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/catalyzing-change-ongwen-sexual-and-gender-based-crimes-and-intersection/) - A two-day conference discussing the ICC’s ONGWEN case, feminist approaches to norm-setting and redressing gender-based international crimes sponsored by Cardozo Law Institute in Holocaust and Human Rights, Cardozo International and Comparative Law Journal, the Emergent Justice Collective, the Global Justice Center, Tallawah Justice for Women, and UN Women. Join us for a lively discussion of - [Human Rights Crisis: Abortion in the United States after Dobbs](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/human-rights-crisis-abortion-in-the-united-states-after-dobbs/) - On April 18, 2023, the Global Justice Center, Pregnancy Justice, the National Birth Equity Collaborative, Physicians for Human Rights — and advised by Foley Hoag LLP — published a briefing paper that highlights original research and physician testimony from the first submission to UN human rights mandate holders following the United States Supreme Court’s ruling - [Women’s Rights and Backsliding Democracies](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/womens-rights-and-backsliding-democracies/) - Alejandra Cardenas – Senior Director of Legal Strategies, Innovation, and Research, Center for Reproductive Rights Negina Khalili – Visiting Professor, Loyola University New Orleans College of Law; former Chief Prosecutor of Elimination of Violence and Harassment Against Women, Attorney General's Office, Republic of Afghanistan; former Professor of Law, Rana University, Kabul, Afghanistan Christine Ryan – Legal Director, Global - [IBA War Crimes Committee Conference 2023: Pursuing justice in a world on fire](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/iba-war-crimes-committee-conference-2023-pursuing-justice-in-a-world-on-fire/) - Panel three: Progress on a progressive Convention on Crimes against Humanity After decades of study, debate, drafting and delay, we are at last approaching an opportunity for substantive state discussion on the merits of the draft articles for the first multilateral treaty on the prevention and punishment of crimes against humanity. Since they were first - [Examining gender dimensions of crimes against humanity: WPS Lunchtime Discussion](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/examining-gender-dimensions-of-crimes-against-humanity-wps-lunchtime-discussion/) - Opening Remarks: Dame Barbara Woodward, Permanent Representative, Permanent Mission of the United Kingdom to the United Nations Panelists: Akila Radhakrishnan, President, Global Justice Center Emily Kenney, Policy Specialist, Rule of Law and Transitional Justice, UN Women Moon Nay Li, a Joint General Secretary of the Women's League of Burma (WLB) May Sabe Phyu, Director, Gender - [Justice Beyond Borders: A Global Mapping Tool](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/justice-beyond-borders-a-global-mapping-tool/) - Speakers: ​ Amal Clooney, Co-founder, Clooney Foundation for Justice Henry Foy, Financial Times European Diplomatic Correspondent Angela Mudukuti, Senior Legal Advisor, Global Justice Center Stephen Rapp, former US Ambassador-at-Large for Global Criminal Justice - [Media Roundtable on International Abortion Access Ahead of 50th Roe v. Wade Anniversary](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/media-roundtable-on-international-abortion-access-ahead-of-50th-roe-v-wade-anniversary/) - Speakers: ​ Anu Kumar, President & CEO of Ipas Christine Ryan, Legal Director of Global Justice Center Jamie Manson, President of Catholics for Choice Chris Purdy, President, and CEO of DKT International - [The Post-Roe era: What's next for the right to privacy?](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/the-post-roe-era-whats-next-for-the-right-to-privacy/) - [Vetting for all ICC elections - the essential elements unpacked](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/vetting-for-all-icc-elections-the-essential-elements-unpacked/) - [Myanmar: Exploring Options for Justice A Side Event During the 2022 Assembly of States Parties to the International Criminal Court](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/myanmar-exploring-options-for-justice-a-side-event-during-the-2022-assembly-of-states-parties-to-the-international-criminal-court/) - Speakers: Carmen Cheung Ka-Man, Executive Director, Center for Justice and Accountability Tun Khin, President, Burmese Rohingya Organisation UK Priya Pillai Head, Asia Justice Coalition Secretariat Akila Radhakrishnan President, Global Justice Center Nicholas Koumjian, Head of the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar Karim Khan Prosecutor, International Criminal Court Chantal Daniels, International Cooperation Advisor, Office of the - [In Pursuit of Intersectional Justice at the International Criminal Court and Beyond](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/in-pursuit-of-intersectional-justice-at-the-international-criminal-court-and-beyond/) - Speakers: ​ Ambassador Julie Heckscher, Australia's Head of Mission to the Netherlands Amanda Ghahremani, Co-Researcher, Canadian Partnership for International Justice and Co-founder, Emergent Justice Collective Samuel Emonet, Executive Director, Justice Rapid Response Carmen Cheung Ka-Man, Executive Director, The Center for Justice and Accountability Patricia Viseur Sellers, Special Adviser on Slavery Crimes, Office of the Prosecutor, - [The UN's New Agenda for Peace and the Situation in Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/the-uns-new-agenda-for-peace-and-the-situation-in-myanmar/) - Among the 12 commitments from the Declaration on the Commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the United Nations, is the UN Secretary General’s call for a “New Agenda for Peace” (New Agenda). Billed as an opportunity to revisit the United Nations Charter’s founding pledge to prevent the scourge of war, the New Agenda could be - [Justice for the Rohingya: Nearing 3 Years of the Genocide Case Against Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/justice-for-the-rohingya-nearing-3-years-of-the-genocide-case-against-myanmar/) - Watch the webinar - [Panel: The human right to health as a gateway to other human rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/panel-the-human-right-to-health-as-a-gateway-to-other-human-rights/) - This panel was part of the Institute for Public Health's15th Annual Conference, which explored the concept of health as a human right and how health affects the enjoyment of our human rights, while lack of access to human rights can affect our health. Featured panelists: Akila Radhakrishnan, JD, President of the Global Justice Center Diego - [International Law Weekend: The Crimes Against Humanity Treaty](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/international-law-weekend-the-crimes-against-humanity-treaty/) - Panelists Richard Dicker, Human Rights Watch Alexandra Lily Kather Emergent Justice Collective, Ambassador Alexander Marschik, Permanent Representative of Austria to the UN Mosammat Shahanara Monica, Permanent Mission of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh Akila Radhakrishnan, Global Justice Center Leila Nadya Sadat, Washington University School of Law - [The London Conference on International Law: International Criminal Law and the Politics of Impunity](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/the-london-conference-on-international-law-international-criminal-law-and-the-politics-of-impunity/) - Despite the major advance of international criminal justice over the last thirty years, and despite significant efforts in theatres such as Ukraine, impunity for the most serious crimes of international concern still prevails. This panel, featuring an introduction by HM Attorney General for England and Wales, Rt Hon Michael Ellis KC MP, will reflect on - [Myanmar and the Road to Lasting Peace Round Table Discussion](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/myanmar-and-the-road-to-lasting-peace-round-table-discussion/) - On February 11th, 2016, the Global Justice Center hosted a round table on Myanmar and the Road to Lasting Peace, featuring two Human Rights defenders from Myanmar, Naw Zipporah Sein and Ying Lao, and Policy Advisor at US Campaign for Burma, Myra Dahgaypaw. At the round table, moderated by the Global Justice Center’s Senior Burma Researcher Phyu - [Agents for Change - The Women of Burma, Film Screening & Discussion](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/turning-a-blind-eye-to-human-rights-in-myanmar-perspectives-from-human-rights-defenders-2/) - This event is a short documentary film screening and discussion about women of Burma breaking the silence on the abuse they’ve endured at the hands of the military regime. - [GJC President Janet Benshoof Speaks at MP-Hosted Event](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/gjc-president-janet-benshoof-speaks-at-mp-hosted-event/) - On October 27, GJC President Janet Benshoof appeared at a Parliamentary event hosted by the Conservative Women’s Organization where she discussed how states have an obligation to ensure that women and girls raped and impregnated in conflict have access to an abortion. Click here to read CWO’s piece below. - [Launch of WLB Report, "Same Pattern, Same Impunity" - Sexual Violence in Burma](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/launch-of-wlb-report-same-pattern-same-impunity-sexual-violence-in-burma/) - Women's League of Burma Report Launch: "Same Pattern, Same Impunity," hosted by the Nobel Women's Inititave and the Global Justice Center. - [GJC Hosts High-Level Panel on Sexual Violence in Burma at the United Nations](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/gjc-hosts-high-level-panel-on-sexual-violence-in-burma-at-the-united-nations/) - On Thursday, April 24, 2014 the Global Justice Center, together with the Nobel Women’s Initiative, Amnesty International and the NGO Working Group on Women, Peace and Security hosted a side event to the Security Council Open Debate on Conflict-Related Sexual Violence. The interactive panel included distinguished guests such as Naw K’nyaw Paw, Secretary of the Karen Women’s Organization and grassroots activist working on empowering women and assisting sexual violence survivors in Burma; H.E. Zainab Bangura, Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict; and H.E. David Donoghue, Permanent Representative of Ireland to the United Nations. The panel was moderated by Nicole Bjerler of Amnesty International. - [GJC Side Event to the Global Summit to End Sexual Violence in Conflict: Women’s Piece of Peace: An Interactive Event on Gender and Post-Conflict Negotiations](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/events-archive-2012-events-archive-gjc-side-event-to-the-global-summit-to-end-sexual-violence-in-conflict-women-s-piece-of-peace-an-interactive-event-on-gender-and-post-conflict-negotiations/) - Women are regularly excluded from peace processes around the world. This interactive event will simulate a peace negotiation, with participants playing the role of opposing parties in a conflict in which sexual violence has been used as a weapon of war, in order to highlight challenges and explore solutions. - [Event: From the Ground Up: Perspectives from Human Rights Defenders in Burma](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/event-from-the-ground-up-perspectives-from-human-rights-defenders-in-burma/) - GJC is participating in a panel highlighting on the ground activism in Burma and the recent crackdowns. Speakers include legal representatives and former activists telling their stories about advocacy in Burma. - [Taking Rights Seriously: The Next Stage of the Human Rights Revolution](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/taking-rights-seriously-the-next-stage-of-the-human-rights-revolution/) - The Global Justice Center will be holding an event in New York City on Friday, November 2 from 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm. This event will feature an evening of conversation with GJC President Janet Benshoof discussing the Global Justice Center’s innovative approach to enforcing international law to establish human rights grounded in the rule of law. - [Why is a War Criminal Getting a Peace Prize?](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/why-is-a-war-criminal-getting-a-peace-prize/) - On Tuesday April 23, Burmese President Thein Sein was awarded a peace prize from the International Crisis Group, an NGO dedicated to resolving deadly conflict. Oddly, presenting Thein Sein with this award is a step away from the ICG’s goal, seeing as their main focus involves conflict resolution, something the Burmese president has evaded. In ICG’s recognition of Thein Sein, they highlight that he has transformed Myanmar by “liberalizing past repressive laws” and “making significant strides in ending internal conflicts, securing ceasefires with all but one of the ethnic armed groups”. - [Lessons Learnt on Violence Against Women and Girls](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/lessons-learnt-on-violence-against-women-and-girls/) - The European Association of Women Lawyers, NAWO, the Global Justice Center and others will be hosting the event “Lessons Learnt on VAGW: A better future including establishing a UN Convention on VAGW." GJC President Janet Benshoof will be talking on using the rule of law to stop Violence Against Women and Girls. - [Health Promotion Tips for Women](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/health-promotion-tips-for-women/) - Hope Medical Enterprises is a not for profit Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) based in the United Kingdom, with a focus on helping Iraqi women and children in Iraq and in Europe in all aspects of their daily lives. The discussion will focus on HIV in Iraq and possibilities to support women and children affected. Among the speakers will be Dr. Hamid Al-Bayati, UN Ambassador of Iraq and Janet Benshoof, President of the Global Justice Center. - [GJC Rises Up! One Billion Rise to End Gender Violence](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/gjc-rises-up-one-billion-rise-to-end-gender-violence/) - On February 14, 2013, the staff of the Global Justice Center joined with Amnesty International is Times Square today for One Billion Rising, V-Day’s global movement to end violence against women. It was such a meaningful event and incredible atmosphere, so we'd like to share a few photos from the day! - [Turning a Blind Eye to Human Rights in Myanmar? Perspectives from Human Rights Defenders](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/turning-a-blind-eye-to-human-rights-in-myanmar-perspectives-from-human-rights-defenders/) - The Global Justice Center will participate in event, along with Amnesty International and Justice Trust, examining the current issues in Burma and the potential political backsliding in terms of human rights. - [GJC Participates in Third Annual Women Law Summit at the NYU School of Law, titled, "Women in Conflict: Gender, Violence, and Peacekeeping"](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/gjc-participates-in-third-annual-women-law-summit-at-the-nyu-school-of-law-titled-women-in-conflict-gender-violence-and-peacekeeping/) - On February 20th, NYU School of Law held its third annual women's law summit which coincided with the 15th anniversary of UN Resolution 1325. The Summit sought to educate participants about women's roles within conflict and their various means of empowerment, especially within the legal system. The all-female panels were composed of practicing lawyers, doctors, academics, and theorists. GJC founder and president Janet Benshoof gave the keynote address, highlighting the organizations projects, such as a campaign for the prosecution of rape as a prohibited weapon, and a campaign seeking the provision of abortions for women in conflict. - [Protest to Stop the Gag](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/event-stopthegag/) - GJC is joining the protest against President Donald Trump's Global Gag Rule. Read about it here - [Global Gag Rule - Implications for EU international aid and health programs](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/eu-parliament-briefing/) - [International Criminal Law in a Retreating World](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/international-criminal-law/) - Janet Benshoof is speaking on a panel discussion on US policy on the International Criminal Court and international criminal justice writ large. - [Using International Law to Advance Women's Rights in the United States](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/using-international-law-to-advance-women-s-rights-in-the-united-states/) - GJC hosted a panel at ASIL's International Law Weekend exploring how international law, particularly the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), can be used to bolster and strengthen women’s rights under domestic law in the United States - [GJC President (acting) Speaks at the Feminist Majority Foundation's National Young Feminist Leadership Conference](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/gjc-president-acting-speaks-at-the-feminist-majority-foundation-s-national-young-leadership-conference/) - Sponsored by the Feminist Majority Foundation, the 2018 National Young Feminist Leadership Conference will provide young activists with the opportunity to network, grow their knowledge on pertinent domestic and global feminist issues, and fine-tune their organizing methodology. Young feminist activists from around the nation come together to discuss issues including (but definitely not limited to) reproductive justice, eco-feminism, intersectionality and identity-based activism, campus organizing tactics and methods, violence against women, ballot measures and political organizing, social media and web-based activism, and global women’s rights and health. GJC President (acting) Akila Radhakrishnan will be speaking on the harm caused by US abortion restrictions. - [Yezidi Genocide Remembrance and Panel Discussion](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/yezidi-genocide-remembrance-and-panel-discussion/) - On Wednesday, August 1st, join the Free Yezidi Foundation, the Global Justice Center, UN Women & the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary General on Sexual Violence in Conflict as we discuss how to ensure justice and accountability for the genocide and make sure that women are at the center of conflict resolution. - [What Does a Gender Perspective Bring to Crimes Against Humanity Genocide, and War Crimes?](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/what-does-a-gender-perspective-bring-to-crimes-against-humanity-genocide-and-war-crimes/) - This event is designed to open up a discussion on the multi-dimensional nature of the core categories of international offences through a gender perspective to evaluate progress, identify setbacks and explore future options. What does a gender analysis add to our understanding of these offences? How can international criminal law better deliver on gender justice? - [Protection of Civilians in Conflict Side Event - Gender and Genocide: Engendering analysis for better prevention, accountability, and protection](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/gender-and-genocide-engendering-analysis-for-better-prevention-accountability-and-protection/) - This May, the Global Justice Center (GJC) and the International Coalition for the Responsibility to Protect (ICRtoP) would like to invite you to join us for a panel event on the sidelines of the upcoming UN Security Council debate on the Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict to raise awareness around the need for the inclusion of a gendered analysis to illuminate the multi-dimensional nature of genocide and other atrocity-related crimes to better prevent their occurrence. - [Webinar on Women in War: Stopping Sexual Violence in Conflict](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/women-in-war-stopping-sexual-violence-in-conflict/) - Hosted by the International Coalition of Sites of Conscience and the Global Action Against Mass Atrocity Crimes, this webinar will bring together experts on the subject to discuss the importance of the resolution and the equally important next steps that need to be taken to guarantee that perpetrators are held accountable, that survivors’ needs are met through a holistic range of practical and sustainable support, and that NGOs, activists and other allies can equip women with the training and networks they need to be active leaders on this issue. - [A Pathway to a Sustainable Solution to the Rohingya Crisis](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/a-pathway-to-a-sustainable-solution-to-the-rohingya-crisis/) - The event will address the international crimes committed against the Rohingya – genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity – and will examine current accountability efforts, including at the International Court of Justice and International Criminal Court. - [Failure to Notice or Notable Failure?: Challenges to Instilling a Gender-Sensitive Approach to International Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/failure-to-notice-or-notable-failure-challenges-to-instilling-a-gender-sensitive-approach-to-international-law/) - The discussion will bring together international law, human rights and women’s rights experts who will draw upon their experiences to discuss the need for a gendered approach to international law. Panelists will consider the following questions: How can international law better deliver on gender justice? What does a gender analysis add to our understanding of these frameworks? Are national courts better equipped to provide true accountability? - [Accountability for the Rohingya Genocide: the ICJ Case](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/accountability-for-the-rohingya-genocide-the-icj-case/) - The Rohingya genocide in Myanmar is one of the most pressing human rights challenges of our times. There have been various attempts at accountability, including the UN Fact-Finding Mission and Investigative Mechanism and the pending ICC investigation, although nothing has borne fruit yet. With the announcement by The Gambia that it would initiate proceedings against Myanmar before the ICJ under the 1948 Genocide Convention, there is now a new and important possibility for accountability. This meeting will provide an update on the initiative, also addressing the implications of State responsibility under the Genocide Convention for deterring further crimes and providing redress for the victims and the role for civil society and other stakeholders in this important accountability initiative. - [Accountability for International Crimes Committed Against Ethnic Minorities in Myanmar: Discussing Complementary Avenues for Justice](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/accountability-for-international-crimes-committed-against-ethnic-minorities-in-myanmar-discussing-complementary-avenues-for-justice/) - How can potential proceedings at the International Criminal Court (“ICC”), the International Court of Justice (“ICJ”), in third party states under universal jurisdiction and the work of the International Independent Mechanism for Myanmar (“IIMM”) can act in complementarity to bring justice and accountability for Myanmar’s crimes ethnic groups, including the Rohingya? - [ICJ Provisional Measures Hearings: Rohingya Right of Reply](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/icj-provisional-measures-hearings-rohingya-right-of-reply/) - The Global Justice Center co-hosted a side event where representatives of the Rohingya community discussed two days of oral arguments at the International Court of Justice in the genocide case against Myanmar. - [CSW Side Event: Working Towards Greater Implementation of 1325 – Models of Best Practice States Parties and Civil Society](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/csw-side-event-working-towards-greater-implementation-of-1325-models-of-best-practice-states-parties-and-civil-society/) - UNSRC 1325 was passed and ratified in 2000, more than 18 years later and with numerous related resolutions since, there is still a way to go to ensure the full implementation of 1325. Human Rights violations in conflict zones are well documented and much of the vision of 1325 remains unrealized. - [Challenges and Prospects on the ICC's Horizon: Afghanistan, Myanmar and More](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/challenges-and-prospects-on-the-icc-s-horizon-afghanistan-myanmar-and-more/) - The roundtable discussion will focus on current and upcoming challenges faced by the International Criminal Court, and the ways in which the Court’s recent work has confronted and responded to pressing global challenges. Experts will discuss issues posed by recent criticism of the Court from those implicated in its examinations and investigations, the increasingly diverse range of examinations and investigations undertaken through the Court and other global criminal justice processes, and opportunities for accountability posed by the Court’s recent cases and decisions, including in Afghanistan and Myanmar. - [Leitner Human Rights Speaker Series – Exporting Censorship: The Suppression of Abortion Speech and Information](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/leitner-human-rights-speaker-series-exporting-censorship/) - Global Justice Center President Akila Radhakrishnan will discuss illegal US abortion restrictions' violations of the freedoms of speech and association, including the Global Gag Rule, Helms Amendment, and Siljander Amendment. - [Accountability for conflict-related sexual violence as a central pillar for prevention - Arria Formula meeting of the UN Security Council](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/accountability-for-conflict-related-sexual-violence-as-a-central-pillar-for-prevention-arria-formula-meeting-of-the-un-security-council-2/) - GJC President Akila Radhakrishnan briefed the UN Security Council on accountability for conflict-related sexual violence. - [Brain Trust: Legal Limits to the Use of the Veto](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/legal-limits-to-the-use-of-the-veto/) - Question at Issue: Are there legal limits to the use of the veto by the Permanent Members of the U.N. Security Council blocking action in the face of genocide, crimes against humanity or war crimes? Or is the veto in such circumstances a carte blanche that can be utilized at the complete discretion of the permanent members? - [Stand Speak Rise Up: Know the System, Fix the System](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/stand-speak-rise-up-know-the-system-fix-the-system/) - Slow progress on ending sexual violence in fragile environments is not a reflection of efforts to combat it. Indeed, sexual violence in fragile environments is steadily rising on global policy and humanitarian agendas. International organisations, governments, researchers, NGOs, foundations, and the private sector are devoting increasing resources to this issue. Yet, despite growing attention and the private sectors' increasing willingness to help address social issues, usually reserved for government and humanitarian organisations, responses to sexual violence in conflict remain lacking in coordination, scale and efficiency. That's because to fix the system, we need to understand the system. - [Myanmar and Accountability for Grave Crimes](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/myanmar-and-accountability-for-grave-crimes/) - Justice for genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity is unlikely in Myanmar's domestic courts. So what are the options for justice? Please join us for an important discussion of opportunities and challenges for accountability in Myanmar with: - [Yale Genocide Symposium: Prosecution, Protection, Preservation](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/yale-genocide-symposium-prosecution-protection-preservation/) - The symposium, organized by the Genocide Studies Program at Yale University, intends to examine the challenges facing the Yazidi people in the wake of the attempted genocide against the Yazidi initiated by ISIL in August 2014. Presentations may explore novel conceptual and theoretical approaches as well as case studies with broader implications. Nadia Murad, Recipient of the 2018 Nobel Peace Prize, will deliver the keynote address. - ["The Prosecutors" Screening at the United Nations](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/the-prosecutors-screening-at-the-united-nations/) - A feature length documentary that tells the story of three dedicated lawyers who fight to ensure that sexual violence in conflict is not met with impunity. - [Jacob Blaustein Institute Panel on UN Secretary-General Prevention Agenda](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/jacob-blaustein-institute-panel-on-un-secretary-general-prevention-agenda/) - GJC President Akila Radhakrishnan spoke at this event hosted by the Jacob Blaustein Institute for the Advancement of Human Rights . Panelists: Mr. Volker Türk, Assistant Secretary-General for Strategic Coordination Mr. Ben Majekodunmi, Chief of Equality, Development and Rights Section, OHCHR Ms. Akila Radhakrishnan, President, Global Justice Center Opening remarks by Ms. Danica Damplo, Universal Rights - [International Law Conference on the Status of Women](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/international-law-conference-on-the-status-of-women/) - GJC President Akila Radhakrishnan spoke at this event hosted by the New York City Bar Association. Description: This exciting Conference will coincide with the 64th session of the Commission on the Status of Women at the United Nations in New York City and the 25th Anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing - [The ICJ provisional measures: Is Myanmar protecting the Rohingya from genocide?](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/the-icj-provisional-measures-is-myanmar-protecting-the-rohingya-from-genocide/) - Description: On 23 January 2020, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued provisional measures ordering Myanmar to take certain actions to protect the Rohingya from genocide and preserve evidence of genocidal acts. Recognizing the extraordinary urgency and importance of the measures ordered, the ICJ asked Myanmar to submit a report on its compliance with the - [Justice for the Rohingya: The Role of Canada](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/justice-for-the-rohingya-the-role-of-canada/) - Speakers: Honourable Marilou McPhedran, Independent Senator, Parliament of Canada Her Excellency Jacqueline O’Neill, Ambassador for Women, Peace, and Security, Canada Honourable Bob Rae, Special Envoy on Humanitarian and Refugee Issues, appointed by the Prime Minister of Canada Prof. Payam Akhavan, Member of the Permanent Court of Arbitration, The Hague; Faculty of Law, McGill University; Counsel - [Atlas Webinar Series: Existing Legal Limits to Security Council Veto Power in the Face of Atrocity Crimes](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/atlas-webinar-series-existing-legal-limits-to-security-council-veto-power-in-the-face-of-atrocity-crimes/) - Description: A conversation with Jennifer Trahan, Clinical Professor at NYU Center for Global Affairs, Moderated by Akila Radhakrishnan, President of the Global Justice Center. Trahan's book demonstrates how vetoes and veto threats have blocked the Security Council from pursuing measures that could have prevented or alleviated atrocity crimes (genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes) in - [The Risk of Mass Atrocities During a Pandemic](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/the-risk-of-mass-atrocities-during-a-pandemic/) - Description: The COVID-19 pandemic poses a great threat to populations already at risk of genocide and crimes against humanity at the hands of their governments. The pandemic may be weaponized by authoritarian states as an opportunity to commit mass atrocities while attention is elsewhere or to deny certain populations their right to health. Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) will host a conversation - [Rohingya Crisis into Fourth Year: Challenges in Securing a Sustainable Solution](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/rohingya-crisis-into-fourth-year-challenges-in-securing-a-sustainable-solution/) - Remarks from GJC President Akila Radhakrishnan Thank you for having me on such a distinguished panel of speakers and experts today, and I want to echo Simon’s thanks for the inclusion of civil society in this conversation. As Ambassador Rae mentioned, I am Akila Radhakrishnan, the president of the Global Justice Center, an international human - [Panel Discussion: Preventing Atrocities with a WPS Perspective: A Myanmar Case Study](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/panel-discussion-preventing-atrocities-with-a-wps-perspective-a-myanmar-case-study/) - Description: On the occasion of the 15th anniversary of the adoption of the Responsibility to Protect (R2P), as well as the 20th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, the UN Secretary-General’s annual report on R2P analyzed where issues related to gender and R2P overlap, from identifying risk factors for - [The Rohingya crisis in Myanmar: A Genocide Incited on Facebook](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/the-rohingya-crisis-in-myanmar-a-genocide-incited-on-facebook/) - Description: History has shown that hate speech often precedes the commission of serious human rights violations and atrocities. In some situations, online hate speech has had a significant impact in the offline world. One of the gravest cases of the past few years took place in Myanmar where inaction against incitement to violence on social - [Burma's Ongoing Political Transition and Key Prospects for International Justice for the Rohingya.](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/burma-s-ongoing-political-transition-and-key-prospects-for-international-justice-for-the-rohingya/) - Description: On this online event, international justice experts from around the world will share an update of the ongoing international justice processes against Burma at the International Court of Justice, the International Criminal Court, and in Argentinian courts through a Universal Jurisdiction case, and give insight on how the international community could work to hold - [A Feminist Vision for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights in a Biden Administration](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/a-feminist-vision-for-sexual-and-reproductive-health-and-rights-in-a-biden-administration/) - Description: The Biden-Harris administration has promised to "build back better," but what does that mean for US policy on human rights? Moderated by author Jill Filipovic, this conversation dives deep into the possibilities presented by the incoming administration to advance global reproductive health and rights. Panelists include: Akila Radhakrishnan, President, Global Justice Center Serra Sippel, - [International Law and the Plight of the Rohingyas: Insights from International Dispute Settlement](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/international-law-and-the-plight-of-the-rohingyas-insights-from-international-dispute-settlement/) - The situation of the Rohingya community in Myanmar and Bangladesh is under intense scrutiny by the international community. Currently, a case is pending before the International Court of Justice concerning Myanmar’s alleged responsibility for genocide, an investigation is on-going at the International Criminal Court and several fact-finding mechanisms are working on gathering evidence of the - [Biden’s New Gendered Approach to Domestic and Foreign Policy](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/biden-s-new-gendered-approach-to-domestic-and-foreign-policy/) - President Biden and Vice President Harris recently announced the formation of a White House Gender Policy Council, which will protect and uplift the rights of people of all genders both here in the U.S. and abroad. This panel of experts discussed the creation of this new Council, its significance to U.S. domestic and foreign affairs, - [An International Women's Day Conversation About Nasrin Sotoudeh and Human Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/an-international-women-s-day-conversation-about-nasrin-sotoudeh-and-human-rights/) - Introduction by Emmy and Tony-winning actress Christine Baranski. Moderated by NPR News Middle East correspondent Deborah Amos. Featuring: Barbara Slavin, Director of the Future of Iran Initiative at the Atlantic Council Akila Radhakrishnan, President of the Global Justice Center Marcia S. Ross, producer of the documentary NASRIN Jeff Kaufman, director, producer, writer of the documentary - [No Systemic Change Without Legal Change: Feminist Engagements With International Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/no-systemic-change-without-legal-change-feminist-engagements-with-international-law/) - There is no systemic change without legal change. The law governs our social relations and without changes in legal frameworks, the rights we fight for as activists are not translated into sustainable polities. Considering ongoing transnational challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the global pushback against human rights, and the climate emergency, the world critically - [Genocide & Human Rights Webinar Series - Gender and International Responses to Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/genocide-human-rights-webinar-series-gender-and-international-responses-to-genocide/) - In the fifth and final session in the Winter 2021 Genocide and Human Rights Webinar Series from the Zoryan Institute, Grant Shubin of the Global Justice Cente looks at the role of gender in the commission and international responses to genocide. In particular, how perpetrators use and exploit gender norms to increase the destructive impact - [The Role of Women in Peace and Security Agenda: UNSCR 1325](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/the-role-of-women-in-peace-and-security-agenda-unscr-1325/) - The landmark Security Council Resolution 1325 underlines the unequal impact of armed conflicts and violence on women and girls while stressing their crucial role in building long-lasting peace. The resolution calls on Member States and civil society organizations to strengthen collaboration in increasing women`s meaningful participation in conflict prevention. UNSCR 1325 also stresses that gender - [Press Conference: Joint Civil Society Appeal for Global Arms Embargo on Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/press-conference-joint-civil-society-appeal-for-global-arms-embargo-on-myanmar/) - Global Justice Center President Akila Radhakrishnan spoke at a press conference to announce a call to action from more than 200 nongovernmental organizations from around the world. The letter urges the United Nations Security Council to immediately impose a global arms embargo on Myanmar in order to pressure the military junta to stop killing unarmed protesters and - [The Ongoing Rohingya Genocide and Opportunities for International Justice in Post-Coup Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/the-ongoing-rohingya-genocide-and-opportunities-for-international-justice-in-post-coup-myanmar/) - Description: Since the February 1 military coup in Burma, there has been unprecedented widespread support for justice and accountability for military atrocities perpetrated against the people of Burma. This has included supportive statements from leaders within the pro-democracy National Unity Government (NUG). However, questions remain about how these new calls for accountability will complement and - [Gendering the Uyghur Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/gendering-the-uyghur-genocide/) - Description: In March, Newlines published its groundbreaking Uyghur Genocide Report that found China in breach of the 1948 Genocide Convention. While parliaments, policymakers, and world leaders have been debating this issue, many conversations are missing the critical element of a gendered analysis of genocide. Our panel of gender and legal experts will discuss how genocide - [UNHRC Side Event on Conflict-Related Sexual Violence](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/unhrc-side-event-on-conflict-related-sexual-violence/) - Description: In many conflicts around the world today, civilians and non-combatants alike continue to suffer at the hands of parties to armed conflict. The ongoing, persistent, and widespread use of sexual and gender-based violence in armed conflicts as a tactic of war is a flagrant and unacceptable violation of international humanitarian and human rights law. It - [Nuremberg Forum 2021](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/nuremberg-forum-2021/) - The Nuremberg Forum 2021 is dedicated to marking the 70th anniversary of the formulation of the Nuremberg Principles, the principles of international law recognized in the Charter of the International Military Tribunal at Nuremberg and the judgment of that tribunal. The core question for this high-level conference is to assess whether the common fight against - [Adjudicating Gender-Based Persecution At The ICC & Beyond: A Monumental Step And The Challenges That Lie Ahead](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/adjudicating-gender-based-persecution-at-the-icc-beyond-a-monumental-step-and-the-challenges-that-lie-ahead/) - Historically speaking, gender has not been viewed as a relevant category of persecution in international criminal law, whereas victimisation on the basis of race, religion, politics, nationality and ethnicity has long been considered relevant. This was also the case with persecution, a fundamental crime against humanity. In the Rome Statute of the International Criminal - [Commemoration and Accountability: Recognizing Genocide and Ethnic Persecution](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/commemoration-and-accountability-recognizing-genocide-and-ethnic-persecution/) - Description: In commemoration of the 4th anniversary of the Rohingya Genocide, the Global Justice Center and the U.S. Campaign for Burma invite you to join the discussion on the need to recognize the Rohingya genocide and draw on the connection to the atrocities suffered by other ethnic groups, as well as holding the Burmese military - [Four years of Impunity: Seeking Justice, Accountability, and Solidarity](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/four-years-of-impunity-seeking-justice-accountability-and-solidarity/) - On 25 August 2021, Akila Radhakrishnan (GJC) moderated a webinar marking the Rohingya Genocide Remembrance Day. The event saw participation from AJC member Mr. Tun Khin (BROUK) as well as Mr. Tom Andrews, UN Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar. - [Gender and Genocide in the 21st Century: Gender Analysis of Contemporary Genocides](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/gender-and-genocide-in-the-21st-century-gender-analysis-of-contemporary-genocides/) - The recent and/or ongoing asserted genocides of the Uyghurs, Rohingya, Yazidis, and Tigrayans all include, prominently, allegations of sexual violence and, in some instances, prevention of births. But whether these are discrete prohibited acts or elements thereof, or should be viewed in composite or as evidence of the intent to destroy the group in whole - [Gender and Genocide in the 21st Century: How Gender Shapes Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/gender-and-genocide-in-the-21st-century-how-gender-shapes-genocide/) - In 2014, ISIS soldiers massacred Yazidi men and boys, while the women and girls of child-bearing age were separated and distributed around the region to ISIS soldiers to be their slaves. In 2017, Myanmar's military used rape and sexual mutilation as weapons of war against Rohingya women fleeing for their lives. As a result of - [Ongoing Rohingya Genocide: Myanmar military defies provisional measures ordered by International Court of Justice](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/four-years-of-impunity-seeking-justice-accountability-and-solidarity-2/) - The BURMESE ROHINGYA ORGANISATION UK (BROUK) is conducting a webinar discussion on the “Ongoing Rohingya genocide Myanmar military defies provisional measures ordered by International Court of Justice,”on Monday 22 November, from 13:00-14:30, London time. This webinar will provide an opportunity to hear from some leading Rohingya, Burmese and international experts on the scope for justice - [Democracy without Sexual and Reproductive Rights is An Empty Promise](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/democracy-without-sexual-and-reproductive-rights-is-an-empty-promise/) - On December 9-10, 2021 the United States will host a virtual Summit for Democracy, bringing together leaders from government, civil society, and the private sector to discuss challenges and opportunities facing democracies and to make commitments to defend democracy and human rights at home and abroad. Fòs Feminista and the Global Justice Center in partnership - [Justice for Myanmar, at the ICJ and Beyond](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/justice-for-myanmar-at-the-icj-and-beyond/) - After over 60 years of serious human rights abuses and mass atrocities, including war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide committed by Myanmar’s military, it is only recently that the international community has taken steps to hold the Tatmadaw to account. Impunity has emboldened the military and was an enabling factor for the military’s February - [Sexual and Gender-Based Violence: A Threat to Women's Rights and Gender Equality](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/sexual-and-gender-based-violence-a-threat-to-women-s-rights-and-gender-equality/) - Sexual and gender-based violence against women is rooted in systematic and systemic discrimination of women’s human rights. It is a direct consequence of gross violations of women’s rights and these violations are further exacerbated during times of armed conflict. - [The Path Forward for the Rohingya Community](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/the-path-forward-for-the-rohingya-community/) - The Rohingya community has long suffered under the Myanmar government’s decades-long policies of persecution against them, which were only exacerbated during and in the wake of the 2017 acts of genocide against them. Today, over a million Rohingya remain outside Myanmar, and an additional 600,000 in Rakhine continue to suffer. Following the February 2021 military - [Avenues to Accountability for Sexual Violence in Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/avenues-to-accountability-for-sexual-violence-in-myanmar/) - The Myanmar military and security forces have used on sexual violence as a tactic to terrorize civilians, especially ethnic minorities and women, girls, and gender-diverse people. Sexual violence was also a hallmark of the Rohingya genocide, as confirmed by the UN Fact-Finding Mission in 2017. Even before the February 2021 military coup, accountability within Myanmar - [Series #2: Democracy Without Sexual and Reproductive Rights is an Empty Promise](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/democracy-without-reproductive-rights-is-an-empty-promise/) - In December 2021 the United States hosted a virtual Summit for Democracy, bringing together leaders from government, civil society, and the private sector to discuss challenges and opportunities facing democracies and to make commitments to defend democracy and human rights at home and abroad. The Summit kicked off a year of action and opportunities for - [Harvard Symposium: Comparative Legal Perspectives on Statutory Abortion Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/harvard-symposium-comparative-legal-perspectives-on-statutory-abortion-rights/) - Panel 2: Judicial and Constitutional Approaches Professor Joanna Erdman (Schulich School of Law, Dalhousie University) Melissa Ayala García (GIRE) Dr. Christine Ryan (Global Justice Center) Professor Mary Ziegler (Harvard Law School) Moderator: Professor Rachel Rebouché (Temple University Beasley School of Law) - [Enhancing Cooperation & Representation Among ICL Actors Through Intersectional Approaches](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/enhancing-cooperation-representation-among-icl-actors-through-intersectional-approaches/) - What can intersectionality mean for international justice? - [Women's Perspectives on a Career in International Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/women-s-perspectives-on-a-career-in-international-law/) - Moderators Emilie Max, Researcher, The Generating Respect Project, Geneva Call Verity Robson, Chief of Legal Services, Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization Panelists Angela Mudukuti, Lawyer and Senior Legal Adviser, Global Justice Center Marie-Louise Tougas, IHL consultant, former UN independent expert Fionnuala Nì Aolàin, UN Special Rapporteur on the Protection and Promotion of Human Rights while Countering - [2022 Annual Meeting of the American Society of International Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/2022-annual-meeting-of-the-american-society-of-international-law/) - The queer experience of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes is not new. From the Holocaust to the anti-gay purges in Chechnya, LGBTQI communities have been deliberately targeted by widespread, systematic campaigns that can be described as atrocity crimes. The (re)imposition or intensification of heteronormative, patriarchal power structures through legislation and culture come before - [Frontiers of Prevention](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/frontiers-of-prevention/) - This panel takes post-atrocity resilience not as an individual feature but as the consequence of various social, economic, and political structures on individuals. It aims to garner panelists' views on identifying the mechanisms which either support or harm the resilience of survivors of conflict-related sexual violence. Panelists: Laila Khoudeida, Co-founder, Yazda Akila Radhakrishnan, President, Global Justice - [The ICC at 20: Critical Perspectives On Human Rights Conference](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/the-icc-at-20-critical-perspectives-on-human-rights-conference/) - Since its establishment at the turn of the century, a central preoccupation of the International Criminal Court (ICC) has been to catalyze—through the principle of complementarity—the pursuit of criminal accountability at the domestic level. This roundtable discussion will explore what impact the ICC, now operational for twenty years, has had in certain countries, how its - [Justice for Ongoing Rohingya Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/justice-for-ongoing-rohingya-genocide/) - The seminar coincides with the six months reporting deadline of Myanmar to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the Gambia v. Myanmar Rohingya Genocide. BROUK will also publish its own report to show the real situation on the ground in Rakhine State, and how the genocide of the Rohingya is ongoing. Moderator: AKILA RADHAKRISHNAN - [Quo Vadis? The Prosecution of Atrocity Crimes from Myanmar to Ukraine](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/quo-vadis-the-prosecution-of-atrocity-crimes-from-myanmar-to-ukraine/) - On 21 June, together with the Cyrus R. Vance Center for International Justice, the Global Centre hosted an event entitled, “Quo Vadis? The Prosecution of Atrocity Crimes from Myanmar to Ukraine - [IAWL Leadership Academy: Taking the Leap from Local to Global](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/iawl-leadership-academy-taking-the-leap-from-local-to-global/) - Globalization has increased opportunities to work at the international level. The transition from working at the local level to the global level is fraught with many challenges and success stories. This panel is made up of women who against the odds are representing their countries on the global level and making an impact. Moderated by - [CERD Committee Discussion: Racial discrimination and the right to health](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/cerd-committee-discussion-racial-discrimination-and-the-right-to-health/) - GJC Legal Director Dr. Christine Ryan speaks to Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. - [Impunity in Myanmar, 5 Years After Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/impunity-in-myanmar-5-years-after-genocide/) - On August 25, 2017, the Myanmar military, known as the Tatmadaw, escalated a genocidal campaign in Rakhine State against the Muslim Rohingya community. Despite a case at the International Court of Justice, international investigations, and efforts to pursue justice under universal jurisdiction, there has been little progress in achieving accountability. In the face of serious obstacles, including the Tatmadaw’s February 2021 coup, civil society leaders are leading the charge for accountability and fighting for a peaceful future in Myanmar. - [ICC at 20 Conference: From the Crimes to the Courtroom](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/icc-at-20-conference-from-the-crimes-to-the-courtroom/) - Session 1: From the crimes to the courtroom: preliminary examinations, investigations and confirmation of charges Chair: Angela Mudukuti, Lawyer and Senior Legal Adviser at the Global Justice Center - [South Asian Bar Association of New York: Reproductive Rights Panel](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/south-asian-bar-association-of-new-york-reproductive-rights-panel/) - Panelists: Akila Radhakrishnan, President, Global Justice Center Rebecca Chan, Staff Attorney, ACLU Melissa Upreti, Senior Director, Center for Women's Global Leadership at Rutgers University - [Yazidi Genocide: Slavery, Gender, & Sexual Violence](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/yazidi-genocide-slavery-gender-sexual-violence/) - Description: The Yezidi Genocide sadly included a number of highly gendered and especially brutal crimes. When ISIS abducted Yezidi women, elderly women were executed. Other women and girls were sorted and selected like animals, trafficked through a highly organized slavery system that included court documents certifying ‘ownership’, and subjected to horrific sexual violence, in some - [The US Campaign to Deny Healthcare to War Victims](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/the-us-campaign-to-deny-healthcare-to-war-victims/) - Description: The Biden administration has repeatedly asserted itself as a champion of sexual and reproductive rights abroad (albeit without ever having said the word abortion), and yet it continues to impose draconian anti-abortion policies which deny access to abortion to pregnant people around the world without exception. As the largest global health funder in the - [Press Conference: Women Leaders of Burma/Myanmar Present Demands to International Community](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/press-conference-women-leaders-of-burma-myanmar-present-demands-to-international-community/) - Description: Grassroots women’s rights activists from Burma/Myanmar spoke for a press briefing on the military coup and its disproportionate impact on women. Occurring less than a week after UN Security Council and UN General Assembly action on the crisis in Burma/Myanmar, the briefing presented demands for the international community from the women of Burma, who - [Obligation to Act: International Action and the Fight Against the Coup in Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/obligation-to-act-international-action-and-the-fight-against-the-coup-in-myanmar/) - Description: While the country is still reeling from the Burmese military's illegitimate coup on February 1, the international community have launched a slate of new sanctions against military leaders amid public condemnations of the Tatmadaw's use of deadly violence against peaceful protests. Multiple questions about Burma's future remain unanswered, however, particularly as they relate to - [Second Annual International Law Conference on the Status of Women](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/second-annual-international-law-conference-on-the-status-of-women/) - Description: Join the City Bar Association’s United Nations Committee for the Second Annual International Law Conference on the Status of Women. The Conference will commemorate International Women’s Day and will be held in the lead up to the 65th Regular Session of the Commission on the Status of Women. The Conference will consist of two - [Beyond the Pandemic: Opening the Doors to Meaningful Participation](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/beyond-the-pandemic-opening-the-doors-to-meaningful-participation/) - Description: The United Nations Department on Political and Peacebuilding Affairs is hosting the virtual event, “Beyond the Pandemic: Opening the Doors to Women’s Meaningful Participation”, on Wednesday, 28 October, at 10:00 AM (NY Time). The event celebrates the 20-year anniversary of United Nations Security Council resolution 1325 (2000) on women, peace and security with the participation - [Access to SRHR in EU humanitarian aid: the case of safe abortion](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/access-to-srhr-in-eu-humanitarian-aid-the-case-of-safe-abortion/) - Description: This webinar addresses the plight of survivors of sexual and gender-based violence and their access to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) under EU humanitarian aid, in particular their access to safe abortion. In 2015, former VP/HR Mogherini and former Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management Mr Stylianides stated that “in cases - [The Commission on Unalienable Rights: A U.S. Assault on Human Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/the-commission-on-unalienable-rights-a-u-s-assault-on-human-rights/) - Description: While the devastating impact of the global COVID-19 pandemic continues to threaten the health and rights of millions, it is important that we stay vigilant in monitoring and addressing the Trump administration's attacks on the global human rights agenda. This Zoom webinar will discuss the work of the Commission on Unalienable Rights, announced by Secretary of - [Movie Screening of Jackson: The Place With One Clinic](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/event-jackson/) - GJC is hosting a movie screening about the last abortion clinic in Mississipi. Read about it here - [GJC Side Event at the World Humanitarian Summit: Making IHL Work for Women and Girls](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/event/gjc-side-event-at-the-world-humanitarian-summit-making-ihl-work-for-women-and-girls/) - Tuesday, 24 May, at 09:00 - 10:30 am At Rumeli Hall 9 at the Lüfti Kirdar Convention and Exhibition Center Panelists Margot Wallström, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Sweden Dr. Helen Durham, Director of International Law & Policy, International Committee of the Red Cross Julienne Lusenge, President, Female Solidarity for Integrated Peace & Development (Sofepadi) ## Our Works - [Gender and Mass Atrocities](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/issue/gender-and-mass-atrocities/) - Gender must shape the prevention of and response to violence, including conflict and mass atrocities. - [Feminist Multilateralism](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/issue/feminist-multilateralism/) - Multilateral systems must integrate principles of feminism, inclusivity, and nondiscrimination. - [Abortion Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/issue/abortion-rights/) - Abortion access must be respected, protected, and fulfilled as a fundamental human right. ## Boards - [Elisabeth Wickeri](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/board/elisabeth-wickeri/) - Elisabeth Wickeri is Executive Director of the Leitner Center for International Law and Justice at Fordham Law School and Adjunct Professor of Law. Wickeri teaches courses in public international law, comparative legal frameworks, and carries out fieldwork, research, and writing on legal developments in Asia.Her publications have appeared in the Fordham International Law Journal, the - [Gretchen Freeman Cappio](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/board/gretchen-freeman-cappio/) - Gretchen Freeman Cappio is a partner at Keller Rohrback L.L.P. Gretchen’s passion lies in achieving meaningful change through litigation. Gretchen has played a key role in many of Keller Rohrback’s cutting edge cases including in the Volkswagen “Clean Diesel” case in which former Special Counsel Robert S. Mueller was appointed Special Master to supervise negotiations, Gretchen served - [Jelena Pia-Comella](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/board/jelena-pia-comella/) - Ms. Pia-Comella started her career in 1996 as a diplomat representing Andorra at the United Nations, Canada and the United States, she was part of the team that created the foreign policy of her country. Ms. Pia-Comella was appointed Deputy Permanent Representative of Andorra to the United Nations in 2002 and served as chargé d’affaires - [Payal Shah](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/board/shefali-salwan/) - Payal Shah is an international human rights lawyer specializing in gender, health, and human rights. She is the Director of Research, Legal, and Advocacy at Physicians for Human Rights. She also serves as a Fellow with the International Reproductive and Sexual Health Law Program at the University of Toronto Faculty of Law and as an - [Lori Adelman](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/board/lori-adelman/) - Lori Adelman is an executive leader, mediamaker, and advocate with nearly two decades of experience advancing global racial, gender, and reproductive justice. Most recently, she served as Executive Director of Planned Parenthood Global, leading the organization’s international work during a period of heightened political scrutiny and launching the Brave Awards to support frontline organizations facing - [Tracy Higgins](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/board/tracy-higgins/) - Tracy Higgins is a Professor of Law at Fordham Law School and the founder and co-director of the Leitner Center for International Law and Justice, the human rights center at Fordham. Higgins received her B.A. in Economics at Princeton and her J.D. at Harvard Law School. She was previously the Visiting Professor at the University - [Viren Mascarenhas](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/board/viren-mascarenhas/) - Viren Mascarenhas is a partner in the Litigation and Arbitration Department of Milbank LLP. He is a specialist in public international law and international arbitration, focusing on both investment treaty arbitration and international commercial arbitration. He has been recognized as a “Rising Star” by the New York Law Journal for attorneys under 40 practicing in New - [Oshiya Savur](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/board/oshiya-savur/) - Oshiya brings nearly two decades of marketing experience across every beauty and personal care category in Mass and Prestige, delivering outstanding results. At Maesa, she redefined the traditional CMO function by expanding the role to include Creative Studio, Innovation & Incubation, Brand Marketing, Integrated Marketing, and Marketing Operations. Oshiya has been instrumental to the incubation - [Shefali Salwan](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/board/shannon-raj-singh-2/) - Shefali Salwan is a certified Executive Coach and a Global Human Resources Consultant with over 20 years experience in Talent Management, Coaching, Leadership Development, Assessments and Diversity, and Inclusion. She has worked and lived in India, Netherlands, UK, Singapore and is currently based in New Jersey. Shefali is coaching executives in the Private Equity, Financial - [Shannon Raj Singh](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/board/shannon-raj-singh/) - Shannon Raj Singh is an attorney specialized in international criminal law, the intersection of technology and human rights, and the prevention of mass atrocities. She is the Co-Vice Chair of the International Bar Association’s War Crimes Committee, and has served as its Special Rapporteur on multilateral conventions relating to atrocity crimes since 2018. In addition, ## Staffs - [Evan Rossi](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/staff/evan-rossi/) - Evan Rossi recently graduated from Columbia University with a degree in English and Comparative Literature. He is driven by a passion for human rights, gender equality, and social equity, which has informed his past community organizing in New Jersey and New York City. He plans to pursue a career in public interest law, tackling contemporary - [Parisa Zangeneh](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/staff/parisa-zangeneh/) - Parisa Zangeneh is a Legal Fellow at the Global Justice Center. She recently graduated from the PhD program at the Irish Centre for Human Rights, University of Galway. She received her BA from McGill University, her LLM in International Law from the School of Oriental and African Studies, and her LLB from the University of - [Jess Cunliffe](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/staff/jess-cunliffe/) - Jess Cunliffe is the Operations Manager at the Global Justice Center, managing organization-wide operations. Jess holds a B.A. in Philosophy and Sociology from the University of Leeds and an M.A. in Humanitarianism and Conflict Response from the University of Manchester. Jess's background is in strategy and quality assurance, and has championed gender equality throughout her - [Benil Ulucinar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/staff/benil-mostafa/) - Benil Ulucinar is the Development Manager at Global Justice Center (GJC), responsible for all fundraising activities, grants management, and relationships with external alliances to enhance GJC's visibility, impact, and sustainability. Benil comes with seven years of change-making experience in advancing human rights through philanthropy, advocacy, and research and has previous work experience with Refugee Solidarity Network, Porticus, - [Indira Rosenthal](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/staff/indira-rosenthal/) - Indira Rosenthal is an international lawyer with 30 years’ experience in international criminal law, human rights, and humanitarian law, specializing in advancing gender equality. Her work focuses on law and justice sector reform, advocacy, and capacity building, primarily in the areas of gender violence and other gender-based rights violations, as well as women and children’s - [Thomas Dresslar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/staff/thomas-dresslar/) - Thomas Dresslar is the Communications Director at the Global Justice Center, overseeing all of GJC's publications and digital outreach. Prior to joining GJC, Thomas worked in communications at the American Civil Liberties Union, where he focused primarily on media relations. He also interned at the Center for American Progress and the California State Senate. Thomas - [Michelle Onello](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/staff/michelle-onello/) - Michelle Onello is an attorney serving as a consultant to the Global Justice Center on international human rights issues. She is a graduate of Harvard Law School and The Johns Hopkins University, including its SAIS Bologna Center. Following law school, she was a Luce Scholar working for the Phuket Provincial Governor in Thailand. Michelle was - [Tess Graham](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/staff/tess-graham/) - Tess Graham is a Legal Advisor at the Global Justice Center, where she engages in research, writing, and advocacy. Prior to joining GJC, she was a postgraduate fellow at Just Security, where she wrote and edited on international human rights and humanitarian law, emerging technologies, and international and domestic accountability efforts. She previously served as Human - [Jaime Gher](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/staff/jaime-gher/) - Jaime M. Gher is a reproductive justice lawyer fighting for the human rights of women, gender-diverse individuals, and marginalized and criminalized populations worldwide. She has over two decades of research, litigation and advocacy experience working within international and national NGOs, as an independent consultant, and within the private sector. As a Senior Legal Advisor with - [Grant Shubin](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/staff/grant-shubin/) - Grant Shubin is a human rights lawyer with ten years of experience with civil society, the private sector, the United Nations working on gender, reproductive rights, mass atrocities, torture, and enforcement of human rights law. He was formerly a member of GJC's legal team between 2014 and 2021, where his work focused on bringing gendered - [Elise Keppler](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/staff/elise-keppler/) - Elise Keppler is executive director of the Global Justice Center. She brings two decades of experience working to advance justice for serious crimes committed in violation of international law — including sexual and gender-based violence — before domestic, hybrid, and international courts. Prior to joining GJC, Elise worked in Human Rights Watch’s International Justice Program ## Annual Reports - [2019 Annual Report](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/annual_report/2019-annual-report/) - Read the Digital Report - [2024 Annual Report](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/annual_report/2024-annual-report/) - [2023 Annual Report](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/annual_report/2023-annual-report/) - [2022 Annual Report](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/annual_report/2022-annual-report/) - [2018 Annual Report](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/annual_report/2018-annual-report/) - Read the Digital Report - [2017 Annual Report](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/annual_report/2017-annual-report/) - [2016 Annual Report](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/annual_report/2016-annual-report/) - [2015 Annual Report](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/annual_report/2015-annual-report/) - [2006 Annual Report](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/annual_report/2006-annual-report/) - [2007-2008 Annual Report](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/annual_report/gjcs-2015-annual-report/) - [2020 Annual Report](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/annual_report/2020-annual-report/) - Read the Digital Report - [2021 Annual Report](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/annual_report/2021-annual-report/) ## Multimedias - [GJC Legal Fellow on the Conclusion of ICJ Hearings in the Rohingya Genocide Case](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/gjc-legal-fellow-on-the-conclusion-of-icj-hearings-in-the-rohingya-genocide-case/) - Hearings concluded in January 2026 in the Rohingya genocide case at the International Court of Justice. GJC Legal Fellow Marianne Vitug attended the hearings and took the chance to share her observations. Notably, she discusses legal arguments from The Gambia (who brought the case) showing how sexual and gender-based violence against Rohingya shows genocidal intent on the part of Myanmar's military. - [GJC Legal Advisor on New UN Meetings on the Draft Crimes Against Humanity Treaty](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/gjc-legal-advisor-on-new-un-meetings-on-the-draft-crimes-against-humanity-treaty/) - January 19, 2026, marked the official start of preparatory meetings on the draft crimes against humanity treaty. Over the next two weeks, UN member states will discuss the draft text of the treaty and prepare proposals for amendments. GJC Legal Advisor Tess Graham was at the UN for the meetings and explains here that this - [GJC Executive Director Delivers Gender Justice Coalition Statement to UN General Assembly on Crimes Against Humanity Treaty](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/gjc-executive-director-gender-justice-statement-un-general-assembly-crimes-against-humanity-treaty/) - At a UN General Assembly session on January 20, 2026, on the draft crimes against humanity treaty, GJC Executive Director Elise Keppler called on states to adopt a gender-competent and intersectional negotiation process and treaty. Read this declaration, signed by more than 225 civil society organizations and individuals: https://cahtreatynow.org/advancing-gender-justice-in-the-crimes-against-humanity-convention-a-declaration/ - [The Global Justice Center Sounds the Alarm About the United States' Increasing International Isolationism](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/the-global-justice-center-sounds-the-alarm-about-the-united-states-increasing-international-isolationism/) - The Global Justice Center discusses its organization's experience after traveling to the UN to draw international attention to the dramatically deteriorating state of reproductive autonomy in the U.S. - [Crimes Against Humanity Treaty at the United Nations: The Journey So Far](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/crimes-against-humanity-treaty-at-the-united-nations-the-journey-so-far/) - [The Time GJC Founder Janet Benshoof Found Out that Gorillas Have More Rights Than Women](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/the-time-gjc-founder-janet-benshoof-found-out-that-gorillas-have-more-rights-than-women/) - [Paloma van Groll on Gendering the Crimes Against Humanity Treaty](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/paloma-van-groll-on-gendering-the-crimes-against-humanity-treaty/) - [Explained: The Crimes Against Humanity Treaty](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/explained-the-crimes-against-humanity-treaty/) - [2021-2026 Strategic Framework: Build Feminist Multilateral Institutions](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/2021-2026-strategic-framework-build-feminist-multilateral-institutions/) - [Abortion Storytelling with GJC](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/abortion-storytelling-with-gjc/) - ["That's Illegal" Episode 1: The Laws of War](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/thats-illegal-episode-1-the-laws-of-war/) - ["That's Illegal" Episode 2: The United States and CEDAW](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/thats-illegal-episode-2-the-united-states-and-cedaw/) - ["That's Illegal" Episode 3: Trump's Global Gag](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/thats-illegal-episode-3-trumps-global-gag/) - ["That's Illegal" Episode 4: Genocide and Justice](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/thats-illegal-episode-4-genocide-and-justice/) - ["That's Illegal" Episode 5: Prosecuting Genocide: A Conversation with Stephen Rapp](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/thats-illegal-episode-5-prosecuting-genocide-a-conversation-with-stephen-rapp/) - ["That's Illegal" Episode 6: Freedom of Information](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/thats-illegal-episode-6-freedom-of-information/) - ["That's Illegal" Episode 7: Civil Society in Burma](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/thats-illegal-episode-7-civil-society-in-burma/) - ["That's Illegal" Episode 8: Refugee Detention and the Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/thats-illegal-episode-8-refugee-detention-and-the-law/) - ["That's Illegal" Episode 9: Ireland's Abortion Laws](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/thats-illegal-episode-9-irelands-abortion-laws/) - ["That's Illegal" Episode 10: #BringBackOurGirls: Five Years Later](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/thats-illegal-episode-10-bringbackourgirls-five-years-later/) - ["That's Illegal" Episode 11: Justice and the Genocide of the Rohingya](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/thats-illegal-episode-11-justice-and-the-genocide-of-the-rohingya/) - ["That's Illegal" Episode 12: The Commission to Undermine Human Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/thats-illegal-episode-12-the-commission-to-undermine-human-rights/) - [One Billion Rising 2015](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/one-billion-rising-2015/) - [GJC President Janet Benshoof addresses European Union on Abortion and Sexual Violence in Conflict](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/gjc-president-janet-benshoof-addresses-european-union-on-abortion-and-sexual-violence-in-conflict/) - [How Helms Hurts Women and Girls in War](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/how-helms-hurts-women-and-girls-in-war/) - [Interview with Julia from WLB](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/interview-with-julia-from-wlb/) - [Righting Wrongs: Global Justice for Gender Violence](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/righting-wrongs-global-justice-for-gender-violence/) - [Akila Radhakrishnan Speaks at NYU Law Summit](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/akila-radhakrishnan-nyu/) - ​ - [Janet Benshoof speaks on International Law and Terrorism](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/janet-benshoof-law-terrorism/) - [GJC's Stephanie Johanssen at UN event on Da'esh accountability](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/stephanie-johanssen-da-esh-2/) - [How US Laws are Failing Women: A Conversation with Janet Benshoof](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/how-us-laws-are-failing-women-a-conversation-with-janet-benshoof/) - [Euronews: GJC President Akila Radhakrishnan on Aung San Suu Kyi at International Court of Justice](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/euronews-gjc-president-akila-radhakrishnan-on-aung-san-suu-kyi-at-international-court-of-justice/) - [CNN: GJC President Akila Radhakrishnan on Hearings in International Court of Justice Myanmar Case](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/gjc-president-akila-radhakrishnan-on-cnn-hearings-in-international-court-of-justice-myanmar-case/) - [BBC World: Global Justice Center President Akila Radhakrishnan on the military Coup in Burma](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/bbc-world-global-justice-center-president-akila-radhakrishnan-on-the-military-coup-in-burma/) - [BBC World: GJC President Akila Radhakrishnan on International Court of Justice Ruling in Rohingya Genocide Case](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/bbc-world-gjc-president-akila-radhakrishnan-on-international-court-of-justice-ruling-in-rohingya-genocide-case/) - [GJC President Akila Radhakrishnan Featured in "Shadow: Jobs Don't Have to Suck"](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/gjc-president-akila-radhakrishnan-featured-in-shadow-jobs-don-t-have-to-suck/) - [Feminism in Focus | Global Justice Center 2018 Video Annual Report](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/feminism-in-focus-global-justice-center-2018-annual-report/) - [Lessons From Leaders: Akila Radhakrishnan](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/lessons-from-leaders-akila-radhakrishnan-2/) - [Former US ambassador for War Crimes Stephen Rapp on Trump's Sanctions against ICC officials](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/former-us-ambassador-for-war-crimes-stephen-rapp-on-trump-s-sanctions-against-icc-officials/) - [The 2020 Global Justice Awards - Full Program](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/the-2020-global-justice-awards-full-program/) - [Why I Support the Global Justice Center](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/why-i-support-the-global-justice-center-2/) - [နိုင်ငံတကာအသိုင်းအဝိုင်းအနေနဲ့ မြန်မာပြည်သူများအား ကာကွယ်ပေးရန်တာဝန်ရှိသည်။](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/နိုင်ငံတကာအသိုင်းအဝိုင/) - [Protesters in Myanmar Call on International Community to Uphold "Responsibility to Protect"](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/protesters-in-myanmar-call-on-international-community-to-uphold-responsibility-to-protect/) - [Legal Director Grant Shubin on the Women, Peace, and Security Agenda](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/legal-director-grant-shubin-on-the-women-peace-and-security-agenda/) - [Legal Advisor Elena Sarver on the Siljander Amendment](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/legal-advisor-elena-sarver-on-the-siljander-amendment/) - [Akila Radhakrishnan Presents to International Criminal Court on the Crime of Forced Pregnancy](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/akila-radhakrishnan-presentation-to-international-criminal-court-on-the-crime-of-forced-pregnancy/) - [Legal Advisor Danielle Hites on the Crimes Against Humanity Treaty](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/legal-advisor-danielle-hites-on-the-crimes-against-humanity-treaty/) - [Special Counsel Michelle Onello on Myanmar's Violence Against Women Law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/special-counsel-michelle-onello-on-myanmar-s-violence-against-women-law/) - [2021-2026 Strategic Framework: Letter from the Staff Committee](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/2021-2026-strategic-framework-letter-from-the-staff-committee/) - [Myanmar's Coup, a Year Later: 3 Things the International Community Can Do](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/myanmar-s-coup-a-year-later-3-things-the-international-community-can-do/) - [2021-2026 Strategic Framework: Abortion is a Human Right](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/2021-2026-strategic-framework-abortion-is-a-human-right/) - [2021 Annual Report - A Message from GJC Development Manager Benil Mostafa](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/2021-annual-report-a-message-from-gjc-development-manager-benil-mostafa/) - [2021-2026 Strategic Framework: Gender Shapes Our Response to Violence](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/2021-2026-strategic-framework-gender-shapes-our-response-to-violence/) - [The Rohingya Genocide — 5 Years Later](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/multimedia/the-rohingya-genocide-5-years-later/) ## Our Financials - [Audited Financial Statements](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/financial/audited-financial-statements-2025/) - [Audited Financial Statements](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/financial/audited-financial-statements-14-2-2/) - [Audited Financial Statements](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/financial/audited-financial-statements-14-2/) - 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[Audited Financial Statements](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/financial/audited-financial-statements-3/) - [Audited Financial Statements](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/financial/audited-financial-statements-2/) - [Audited Financial Statements](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/financial/audited-financial-statements/) - [Audited Financial Statements](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/financial/audited-financial-statements-11/) - [Audited Financial Statements](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/financial/audited-financial-statements-9/) ## Newletters - [Spring 2026 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/spring-2026-newsletter/) - The Inter-American Court of Human Rights issued a landmark judgment in March recognizing Peru’s 1990s forced sterilization campaign as a state policy of reproductive violence. The ruling established a major precedent by expressly recognizing the harm of reproductive violence, which was the central argument of the amicus brief we filed in the case last year. - [Winter 2026 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/winter-2026-newsletter/) - Ahead of this month's UN meetings marking the start of preparatory work for a first crimes against humanity treaty, GJC organized a statement endorsed by more than 230 organizations and individuals calling on governments to ensure a gender-competent, intersectional, and survivor-centric negotiation process and treaty text. - [Summer 2025 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/summer-2025-newsletter/) - In coalition with local and international partners, we filed a submission for an upcoming UN review of the United States' human rights record. The submission highlights the lived experience of people in Louisiana and Texas as they face a diminishing state of reproductive autonomy. - [Winter 2025 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/winter-2025-newsletter/) - Following years of activism from Global Justice Center and others, the UN General Assembly decided to advance the draft treaty on crimes against humanity toward negotiations. This offers a historic opportunity to strengthen justice for gender-based crimes, including forced marriage, gender apartheid, and reproductive violence. - [Fall 2024 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/fall-2024-newsletter/) - Following months of research and consultations, GJC and its partner UN Women published a groundbreaking report uncovering barriers and opportunities for the documentation of reproductive violence in UN investigations. - [Spring 2024 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/spring-2024-newsletter/) - Ahead of a UN session on the draft crimes against humanity treaty, we published a joint statement signed by hundreds of organizations and experts urging progress on the draft treaty. The statement includes signatures from those based in Africa, the Middle East, Asia, the Americas, and Europe. - [Winter 2024 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/winter-2024-newsletter/) - After a months-long search, Elise Keppler was selected as GJC's new executive director in January. Elise is an internationally recognized international justice expert who joins us after two decades with Human Rights Watch. - [June 2016 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/june-2016-newsletter/) - This month, GJC participated in the UN's first World Humanitarian Summit held in Istanbul, Turkey from 23-24th, 2016. With our presence there, we took leadership in promoting the rights of women and girls under international humanitarian law. - [July 2010 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/july-2010-newsletter/) - On July 17th the world celebrated International Justice Day, the anniversary of the adoption of the Rome Statute, the treaty that created the International Criminal Court. - [May 2010 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/may-2010-newsletter/) - In March we were busy running back and forth to the UN for the 54th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW). In this issue of GJCNews, we want to share with you our staff's stories from those amazing two weeks and introduce you to some of the incredible women leaders we look forward to collaborating with as we continue to use the law to enforce the rights of women around the world. - [July 2009 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/july-2009-newsletter/) - "Human rights is universal - it equally applies to all human beings and it is the collective wisdom of all faiths, religions and peoples." -Shirin Ebadi, San Francisco Jewish Communtiy Center, May 18, 2009. - [July 2008 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/july-2008-newsletter/) - In less than three years, the Global Justice Center has dramatically expanded the scope and influence of its programs. This summer we've been on the move and taking our work to a whole new level! We just relocated to a new office that will provide work and research space for our growing staff and allow us to host interns, colleagues and researchers from around the world. - [April 2008 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/april-2008-newsletter/) - As we were finishing this month's e-news on criminal accountability in Burma, we were saddened and shocked to hear of the catastrophic cyclone that hit the country this past weekend. The Global Justice Center first wants to extend our deepest sympathy to the people of Burma who have been impacted by the cyclone. - [February 2008 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/february-2008-newsletter/) - In commemoration of the 52P ndP Session of the Commission on the Status of Women’s Review Theme: Women’s Equal Participation in Conflict Prevention, Management and Conflict Resolution and in Post-Conflict Peacebuilding, we take this opportunity to highlight our work for the women victims of the armed conflict in Colombia. - [November 2007 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/november-2007-newsletter/) - October 31st marked the seventh anniversary of the unanimous passage of Security Council Resolution (SCR) 1325 on women, peace and security. SCR 1325 mandates the inclusion of women in all aspects of decision making in conflict prevention, resolution and reconstruction as well as protection of women in situations of conflict and ending impunity for those crimes. - [October 2007 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/october-2007-newsletter/) - September has obviously been a time of great turmoil, as we dealt with the slow leaks of news, the horrific pictures of atrocity and the deafening silence of the military crackdown in Burma. GJC has the fortune of having a Burmese woman working in our office and during the first few days of the crisis, she was able to speak to some people on the phone in Burma and she read all the Burmese blogs. As the junta cut off cell phones and internet access, her ability to get information from inside Burma was severely, and then totally, curtailed. - [September 2007 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/september-2007-newsletter/) - As many of you may have noticed, Burma has made its way to the international news media as a result of ongoing protests inside the country over the past few weeks. These protests, many of which have been initiated by the 1988 Generation Student Group, have resulted in arrests by the military regime for allegedly undermining the stability and security of the country. - [December 2014 Newsletter - Issue 3](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/december-2014-newsletter-issue-3/) - The Global Justice Center is ending the year with a bang! Yesterday, the New York Times published its fourth editorial urging President Obama to lift the abortion ban on US aid for girls and women raped in armed conflict. - [December 2014 Newsletter - Issue 2](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/december-2014-newsletter-issue-2/) - Forty-one years ago today, in response to the landmark Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision that upheld women’s right to choose, Congress enacted the Helms amendment in an effort to restrict US foreign aid from being used to provide safe abortion services. Shamefully, for over four decades, the Helms amendement has resulted in the denial of lifesaving abortions to women and girls brutally raped and forcibly impregnated in war. - [December 2014 Newsletter - Issue 1](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/december-2014-newsletter-issue-1/) - When Travel + Leisure magazine this month declared Burma its “Destination of the Year,” the Global Justice Center spoke with journalist Lauren Wolfe to lift the veil on human rights abuses that continue to be perpetrated with impunity in a country deemed to be “on the cusp of great change.” - [June 2011 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/june-2011-newsletter/) - The GJC is working to bring a new voice to the US debate over ratification of Convention to Eliminate All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), a UN treaty and binding international law that is widely considered to be the bill of rights for women. - [May 2015 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/may-2015-newsletter/) - Janet in New York Times: Why is Obama Administration Denying Abortions to Impregnated Boko Haram Victims? In case you missed it, please see my letter to the editor which was published in Friday’s New York Times. - [April 2015 Newsletter - Issue 2](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/april-2015-newsletter/) - Last week, United Nations news outlet PassBlue published the Global Justice Center’s editorial on the one year anniversary of the kidnapping of 276 Nigerian schoolgirls by Boko Haram. Our editorial identified the crimes committed by Boko Haram as an act of genocide, called “the forcible transfer of children,” as defined by the Genocide Convention. - [April 2015 Newsletter - Issue 1](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/april-newsletter-issue-1/) - As the world remembered the abduction of the 276 Chibok schoolgirls kidnapped by Boko Haram—219 who remain missing—on the one year anniversary of their abduction, the Global Justice Center is asking why the perpetrators of this heinous crime have not been brought to justice. - [March 2015 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/march-2015-newsletter/) - Today is International Women’s Day, and around the world thousands of women and girls are being used as a weapon of war in places like Nigeria, Democratic Republic of Congo, Syria and Iraq. - [February 2015 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/february-2015-newsletter/) - In collaboration with Fordham Law School’s Leitner Center for International Law and Justice, GJC developed trainings and materials to empower activists in Burma to harness and use international law to achieve gender equality and to enforce human rights. - [August 2015 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/august-2015-newsletter/) - When will the US uphold the principles of the Geneva Conventions for women raped in war? Today marks the 66th anniversary of the United States signing the Geneva Conventions. Yet, due to US policy, women and girls raped in war are still denied their right under international law to all necessary medical care, including access to safe abortions. This includes the women and girls brutally raped and forcibly impregnated by Boko Haram in Nigeria. - [October 2015 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/october-2015-newsletter/) - How have the lives of women and girls surviving conflict situations improved in the last 15 years? As Women’s Rights Leader Julienne Lusenge of the DRC reflected on the international community’s response, “almost nothing has changed.” - [November 2015 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/november-2015-newsletter/) - The Burmese (Myanmar) election is front page news across the globe, and the results are demonstrating many victories for Burma’s National League for Democracy (NLD). This election shows how urgently the people of Burma want change. However, the bleak stuctural barriers to democracy, especially the Constitution that guarantees 25% of the parliamentary seats and blanket immunity to the military are even more apparent. - [December 2015 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/december-2015-newsletter/) - Nadia Murad Basee Taha, who was held captive by ISIS and managed to escape, bravely told her story to the United Nations Security Council on Wednesday. - [March 2016 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/march-2016-newsletter/) - Today, on International Women’s day, it is important to not forget the thousands of women and girls still being held captive by ISIS. The subjugation of women and girls and the horrific violence inflicted on them are strategies of terror and genocide used by ISIS to achieve their aims. - [April 2016 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/april-2016-newsletter/) - It has been two years since Boko Haram abducted nearly 300 Chibok Christian schoolgirls. The global rallying cry to “Bring Back Our Girls” has not stopped Boko Haram from targeting women and girls with heinous crimes including kidnappings, rapes, forced pregnancies, forced conversion, and murder by forced suicide. - [May 2016 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/may-2016-newsletter/) - This Mother’s Day it is important to remember that when women have a say in governance, the world becomes a better place. This is why GJC works to empower women and ensure their equal rights around the world. - [July 2016 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/july-2016-newsletter/) - A new report, “They Came to Destroy” : ISIS Crimes Against the Yazidis, confirms that ISIS is committing genocide against the Yazidi including through gendered non-killing crimes such as rape and sexual violence against enslaved Yazidi women and girls. - [August 2016 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/august-2016-newsletter/) - August 12th was the anniversary of the Geneva Conventions. Because of Florence Nightingale we have laws guaranteeing all war victims equal rights to medical care. - [December 2016 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/december-2016-newsletter/) - On January 20th, 2017, Trump is set to re-instate the Global Gag Rule. See GJC's infographic explaining the differences between the Helms Amendment and the Global Gag Rule and what this means for women raped in war. - [January 2017 Newsletter - Issue 1](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/january-newsletter-issue-1-2/) - After World War II, there was a human rights revolution that resulted in strong treaties and human rights laws. These laws are underscored by the recognition that there are rights so fundamental that they transcend borders and individual policies. - [February 2017 Newsletter - Issue 1](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/february-newsletter-issue-1/) - This week the courts are standing up to Trump, proving once again that the law can stop tyranny in its tracks. GJC knows what resistance looks like. - [February 2017 Newsletter - Issue 2](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/february-newsletter-issue-2/) - The Trump administration is feeling the pressure. All around the country people have been coming together and standing up to his dangerous policies, saying, “We won’t go back.” - [February 2017 Newsletter - Issue 3](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/february-2017-newsletter-issue-3/) - Women have been the leaders of successful resistance movements around the world. From the women of Liberia's mass action for peace, to mothers in Argentina and women's groups in Burma, women's rights activists are often the first to speak out against the rise of extremism. - [March 2017 Newsletter - Issue 1](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/march-2017-newsletter-issue-1/) - Over one month ago Donald Trump reinstated and expanded the Global Gag Rule. As organizations around the world wait for official guidelines on what the expansion means, GJC and other women's rights groups are already working hard to combat these deadly restrictions on women's healthcare. - [May 2017 Newsletter - Issue 1](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/may-2017-newsletter-issue-1/) - In April, the United Nations contacted the Trump administration and warned them that repealing the Affordable care Act and leaving millions without health coverage would violate the US’s legal obligations under international human rights treaties. - [March 2017 Newsletter - Issue 2](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/march-2017-newsletter-issue-2/) - I’m back very recently from meetings in Brussels and London and we are not alone! The growing resistance to Trump’s actions to undermine women, including by censoring abortion-related speech globally, is real and growing. - [April 2017 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/april-2017-newsletter/) - In 1945, on the ninth day of testimony at the Nuremberg Trials, the prosecutors introduced a damning piece of evidence - a film that showed the gas chambers at Dachau. Nineteen Nazi war criminals were convicted, and the Nuremberg Trials helped establish an international system of criminal law that included the adoption of the Genocide Convention. - [May 2017 Newsletter - Issue 2](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/may-2017-newsletter-issue-2/) - We saw this coming. In January when Trump first took office as an anti-choice president, he immediately re-instated the Global Gag Rule. We knew there was more to it and yesterday with his newest policy, “Protecting Life in Global Health Assistance,” Trump confirmed that he has expanded these anti-abortion restrictions to impact $8.8 billion in global health assistance. This expansion is unprecedented. - [June 2017 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/june-2017-newsletter-issue-1/) - In May, the Trump administration announced an updated policy greatly expanding the Global Gag Rule. This will have a drastic effect on $8.8 billion in US health care aid. As a result, millions of women and girls around the world will lose access to contraception and maternal health care. Hundreds of clinics serving in-need populations around the world will be forced to close. Women will die. - [January 2018 Newsletter - Issue 1](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/january-newsletter-issue-1/) - Join GJC in marching in honor of our fearless leader, Janet Benshoof, in the Women's March on New York City - Saturday, January 20th. - [January 2018 Newsletter - Issue 2](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/january-newsletter-issue-2/) - Join GJC this weekend as we celebrate the incredible life of our founder, Janet Benshoof. - [January 2018 Newsletter - Issue 3](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/january-newsletter-issue-3/) - Thank you for marching with the Global Justice Center in honor of our fearless founder, Janet Benshoof. Janet fought her entire life to advance women's equality and we are grateful to you for honoring her with us and for carrying on her powerful legacy. - [Fall 2023 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/fall-2023-newsletter/) - Ahead of a UN debate on the draft crimes against humanity treaty in October, GJC gathered human rights organizations and international law experts to publish a letter and several briefs outlining strategies to advance gender justice in the treaty. - [Summer 2023 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/spring-2023-newsletter-2/) - GJC supported our longtime partner Naw Hser Hser of the Women's League of Burma in briefing the UN Security Council, where she was the first civil society activist from Myanmar to address the Council in an open session since the February 2021 coup. - [Spring 2023 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/spring-2023-newsletter/) - In April, the United Nations Sixth Committee held a resumed session that considered the substance of the draft treaty on crimes against humanity. To prepare for this historic week, we published a Q&A that answers key questions about the treaty. - [February 2016 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/february-2016-newsletter/) - In a historic and strongly worded resolution, the European Parliament declared the atrocities ISIS continues to commit against religious minorities constitute genocide. This is the first time the European Parliament has acknowledged ongoing atrocities as genocide. - [January 2017 Newsletter - Issue 2](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/january-2017-newsletter-issue-2/) - Last week we saw pictures of men signing executive orders that negatively impacted the lives of women, minorities and vulnerable populations in the United States and around the world. - [December 2017 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/december-2017-newsletter/) - It is with deep sadness that the Global Justice Center announces the passing of its founder and fearless leader, Janet Benshoof. A generational force and tireless advocate for the rule of law and women’s equality, Ms. Benshoof’s family announced her passing on December 18th. She was 70 years old. - [February 2018 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/february-2018-newsletter/) - Today is the 20th anniversary of V-Day, a global movement to stop violence against women and girls. On this day, GJC is focused on the women and girls raped in war who are denied lifesaving medical care. - [March 2018 Newsletter - Issue 1](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/march-2018-newsletter-issue-1/) - From the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements to the #SheDecides Campaign, women are speaking up to demand equal rights and representation. It is up to us to make sure that this sea change creates permanent advances that positively impact women’s lives for generations to come. On International Women’s Day, #PressforProgress with the Global Justice Center. - [March 2018 Newsletter - Issue 2](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/march-2018-newsletter/) - A official appointed by Trump said during a closed-door meeting at the UN that the United States is a "pro-life country." Legally, it's not. The official also tried to negotiate the removal of any references to "sexual and reproductive health" in a UN document. Every day, the Trump Administration shows its willingness to take even more radical anti-choice positions than past Republican administrations. - [May 2018 Newsletter - Issue 1](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/may-2018-newsletter-issue-1/) - Janet always said that “For there to be justice, peace and security in the world, there has to be equality of women in fact.” She founded the Global Justice Center to help create that world, where women and girls have equal access to justice under the law and in practice. - [May 2018 Newsletter - Issue 2](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/may-2018-newsletter-issue-2/) - Since 2005, the Global Justice Center has worked with our partners in Iraq to hold perpetrators of gender-based crimes accountable in order to ensure a rule of law based on gender equality. - [May 2018 Newsletter - Issue 3](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/may-2018-newsletter-issue-3/) - The Trump administration proposed a domestic “Gag Rule” last night, banning health centers that provide, refer, support, or assist women in accessing abortion services from receiving Title X funding. This dangerous policy will deny women their fundamental human rights. - [May 2018 Newsletter - Issue 4](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/may-2018-newsletter-issue-4/) - This week, the White House announced new restrictions on Title X that threaten to cut off funding to any health care provider that refers, provides, or even mentions abortion, leading to dire consequences, primarily for low-income women. - [June 2018 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/june-2018-newsletter/) - The Global Justice Center’s Board of Directors is thrilled to announce that Akila Radhakrishnan has been named the President of the Global Justice Center (GJC). Ms. Radhakrishnan has worked at the Global Justice Center since 2010, most recently serving as the organization’s Vice-President and Legal Director. “We are delighted that Ms. Radhakrishnan has accepted this position,” says Tracy Higgins, Chair of GJC’s Board of Directors. “Ms. Radhakrishnan served as acting President during a difficult time of grieving and transition for the organization over the past six months. Her leadership during that time, together with her legal expertise and commitment to the organization made it abundantly clear that she is the best person to lead GJC into the future.” - [July 2018 Newsletter - Issue 1](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/july-2018-newsletter-issue-1/) - This week, President Trump nominated Brett Kavanaugh to replace Justice Kennedy on the Supreme Court. Kavanaugh has ruled against the rights to birth control and abortion throughout his career. His nomination threatens the protections of Roe v. Wade and signals the growing disparity between the United States and international human rights norms. - [July 2018 Newsletter - Issue 2](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/july-2018-newsletter-issue-2/) - Today, the Global Justice Center submitted a formal comment to Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar detailing the ways in which proposed restrictions on Title X deny women their fundamental human rights. - [Winter 2023 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/winter-2023-newsletter/) - We spearheaded a letter signed by nearly 200 organizations and individuals that urged UN human rights experts to act in response to the abortion rights crisis unleashed by the Supreme Court ruling in Dobbs v JWHO. - [Winter 2022 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/winter-2022-newsletter/) - Ahead of the first hearings in the International Court of Justice case against Myanmar since the coup, we published a Q&A with Human Rights Watch. The factsheet answers question about the current stage of the case as well as its future. - [January 2019 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/january-2019-newsletter/) - On his first full day in office, the same day as the groundbreaking Women’s March, President Trump reinstated and expanded the devastating Global Gag Rule. For two years, we have seen the consequences of this destructive and illegal policy—two years of clinics closing, women dying, and doctors being illegally denied their protected right to free speech. - [February 2019 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/february-2019-newsletter/) - Earlier this month, GJC President Akila Radhakrishnan briefed the United Nations Security Council on accountability for conflict-related sexual violence. As Akila emphasized to Council members, "When states and the United Nations fail to act, it sends a dangerous message that genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity can be committed with impunity." - [March 2019 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/march-2019-newsletter/) - The sixty-third session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) is coming to an end, and we have been busy over the last two weeks bringing our legal analysis to the conversations about equality and empowerment. While this year's CSW has provided a platform for many crucial and progressive discussions, we are troubled by reports that the United States is working to remove the term "gender" from CSW's outcome document. If realized, this would represent a major step backwards for gender justice. - [April 2019 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/april-2019-newsletter/) - Last week, the United Nations Security Council adopted Resolution 2467 on Women, Peace and Security. As a last minute compromise, language on sexual and reproductive heath was removed, undermining the resolution's goal to address the needs of victims of sexual violence in conflict. - [May 2019 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/may-2019-newsletter/) - This May was a whirlwind of events for the Global Justice Center. We hosted the inaugural Global Justice Awards, and were honored to see so many friends and allies show their support for our mission. We were inspired by Patricia Sellers' powerful acceptance speech: "to all the young feminist lawyers: go to the places where they say you have no business. The time is urgent, and you must take it." - [June 2019 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/june-2019-newsletter/) - The Trump administration’s new strategy on Women, Peace, and Security is one more glaring example of their dangerous, regressive, and illegal approach to women’s health and rights. The United States is eroding women’s equality at home and abroad by exporting censorship, enacting restrictive abortion policies, and undermining protections for survivors of sexual violence in conflict. - [July 2019 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/july-2019-newsletter/) - Looking back on my first year as President of the Global Justice Center, I am so proud of all that we have accomplished. We were on the floor of the UN Security Council fighting to preserve gains on reproductive rights in the face of a hostile U.S. administration. Expert UN bodies, including the Fact-Finding Mission for Myanmar and the International Criminal Court, considered our legal analysis of gender-based crimes committed against the Rohingya in their work. - [August 2019 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/august-2019-newsletter/) - The United Nations, the US Congress, and the European Union are all on summer recess. For the Global Justice Center, however, the struggle for human rights never rests. We are busy preparing for a number of high-profile events and forums on the international stage, including an upcoming UN Security Council Arria meeting on accountability in Burma — an issue GJC has worked on for over a decade. We are also gearing up for the UN General Assembly beginning September 17. - [September 2019 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/september-2019-newsletter/) - The United Nations couldn’t be any clearer: a genocide has occurred in Burma against the Rohingya and the international community must take action. To remind the world of its responsibility to act in the face of genocide, the Global Justice Center will be engaging the UN General Assembly and other forums to urge world leaders to act to ensure justice and accountability. - [October 2019 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/october-2019-newsletter/) - I had a tremendous honor this month to sit on a panel with a group of extraordinary feminists in the human rights field: Agnès Callamard, U.N. Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions; Dr. Anne Marie Goetz, former Chief Advisor on Peace & Security, UN Women; and Melissa Upreti, Expert on the UN Working Group on Discrimination Against Women. - [November 2019 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/november-2019-newsletter/) - The United Nations Security Council last week unanimously adopted resolution 2492, which called for the full implementation of the Women, Peace, and Security agenda. This resolution is intended to serve as a call to action from the council one year before the agenda’s 20th anniversary next year. - [December 2019 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/december-2019-newsletter/) - In one of the most powerful moments of international justice in recent memory, Myanmar stood before the International Court of Justice last week as The Gambia delivered accusations of mass killing and rape against the Rohingya. Victims of genocide finally got their day in court. - [January 2020 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/january-2020-newsletter/) - For decades, the Rohingya experienced and documented extreme discrimination, oppression, and violence at the hands of their government. And they watched the international community turn a blind eye to this suffering. But last week, the Rohingya finally received a sense of justice that has eluded their community for generations. - [February 2020 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/february-2020-newsletter/) - For too long, issues of gender have been relegated to the sidelines during high-level forums on international law. At worst, gender is omitted entirely. GJC is proud of our trusted reputation as the feminists in legal spaces, and over the next month, we'll get a chance to demonstrate this strength in a big way. - [March 2020 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/march-2020-newsletter/) - We're in the midst of a historic crisis that affects every human being on this planet. Now more than ever, we need strong international cooperation and the protection of human rights. Yet, the Trump administration's "Commission on Unalienable Rights," established to tear down these institutions, continues to meet. - [April 2020 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/april-2020-newsletter/) - Global crises always hit our marginalized communities the hardest. Women, especially poor women and women of color, are among those suffering the most from COVID-19 and its economic fallout. Unfortunately, in a moment when protecting fundamental human rights are more important than ever, we are seeing governments continue to attack their right to abortion care. - [May 2020 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/may-2020-newsletter/) - A critical aspect of the International Court of Justice's historic ruling to prevent genocide against Rohingya was the requirement for Myanmar to regularly report on its compliance with the order. Last Saturday, Myanmar faced its first reporting deadline and the Global Justice Center used the opportunity to hold the government accountable for its actions, or lack thereof, since the January order. - [June 2020 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/june-2020-newsletter-2/) - Over the last several years, we've witnessed a nationalist slide away from multilateralism and against international institutions. GJC knows global institutions are critical to protecting human rights, so this month, we ramped up our work to bolster them. - [July 2020 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/july-2020-newsletter/) - In this age of runaway nationalism, GJC has never wavered in its fight for both fully realized human rights protections and systems of accountability to enforce those protections. - [August 2020 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/august-2020-newsletter/) - To continue our reflection on what it takes to build a feminist future ahead of the virtual Global Justice Awards on September 17th, we've asked the GJC community to share their feminist inspiration with us. It has been encouraging and exciting to see so many meaningful stories so far! - [September 2020 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/september-2020-newsletter/) - The first-ever virtual Global Justice Awards have come and gone, and we couldn't be happier with our night of celebration and collaboration. Thanks to you, we feel as emboldened as ever to continue our fight for gender equality. - [October 2020 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/october-2020-newsletter/) - On October 31, 2000, the United Nations Security Council handed down a bold vision mandating the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women in all aspects of peace and security. Sadly, much of the progress made since then remains rhetoric rather than a reality for most women around the world. - [November 2020 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/november-2020-newsletter/) - After months of negotiations between nations and advocacy from organizations like GJC, Russia's resolution on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) failed in the UN Security Council last month. It was a victory for women's rights. - [December 2020 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/december-2021-newsletter/) - Four years of President Trump has devastated sexual and reproductive rights around the world. The Biden-Harris administration promises to "build back better" on human rights and global institutions, but what does that look like exactly? - [August 2018 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/august-2018-newsletter/) - August marks the anniversaries of two recent genocides: the Rohingya in Burma and the Yazidi in Iraq. These atrocities highlight the often overlooked but increasingly unavoidable gendered crimes of genocide. Systematic sexual violence was integral to the campaigns that targeted the Rohingya and Yazidi communities for annihilation. Unless these crimes are recognized and prosecuted as genocide, the international community will continue to miss the warning signs and fail to intervene before the next genocide takes place. - [September 2018 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/september-2018-newsletter/) - Last week, we released the first comprehensive legal analysis of the gender-based crimes committed against Rohingya women and girls in Rakhine State. Days later, ICC Chief Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda announced the launch of a preliminary investigation into the deportation of hundreds of thousands of Rohingya into Bangladesh. - [October 2018 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/october-2018-newsletter/) - Earlier this month, our partners Nadia Murad and Dr. Denis Mukwege were awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for their work to end sexual violence in conflict. Sexual and gender-based crimes are in the international spotlight, and GJC is working overtime to make sure that these crimes are investigated and punished. - [November 2018 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/november-2018-newsletter/) - In an historic step towards justice, a new international convention focused on crimes against humanity is in its final draft stages. GJC is working to ensure that gender justice is at the forefront of this effort, particularly when it comes to forced pregnancy, the right to abortion, and the definition of gender. - [December 2018 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/december-2018-newsletter/) - This December marks 70 years since the ratification of the Genocide Convention, an anniversary that reminds us of the failed promise of "Never Again." To mark this important milestone, GJC released a groundbreaking legal analysis of the gender-based crimes of genocide. The report outlines how the continued failure to acknowledge the role gender plays in genocidal violence has undercut the development of an effective legal framework to prevent and punish genocide. - [June 2006 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/june-2006-newsletter/) - Women are lobbying the Iraqi tribunal--the court trying the war crimes of Saddam Hussein's Baathist regime--to prosecute crimes against women. Iraqi women involved in the effort are concealing their identities out of fear of retribution. - [January 2021 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/january-2021-newsletter/) - Throughout his presidential campaign, Joe Biden repeatedly committed to reforge the US commitment to human rights and repair America's relationship with the world. But what should this look like? - [February 2021 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/february-2021-newsletter/) - In the early morning hours of February 1, Myanmar's military, the Tatmadaw, seized power. State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi was arrested along with many other political figures and government critics. - [March 2021 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/march-2021-newsletter/) - In the weeks leading up to President Biden's inauguration, we urged the president to go beyond rolling back Trump policies by embracing a "feminist foreign policy agenda that places marginalized communities, including women and LGBTQIA+ people, at its center." - [June 2021 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/june-2020-newsletter/) - From a global pandemic to vicious attacks on democracy and human rights, 2020 presented some of the most formidable challenges the Global Justice Center has ever faced. - [April 2021 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/april-2021-newsletter/) - In its decades-long campaign of persecution against ethnic groups, Myanmar's military has often reserved its most brutal acts of violence for women. Now that the military is in sole control once again, women in Myanmar are doing what they've always done: fight back. - [May 2021 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/may-2021-newsletter/) - The Biden administration has repeatedly defined itself as a champion of sexual and reproductive rights. In his four months in power, President Biden has taken some action to back up this label. - [Fall 2021 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/fall-2021-newsletter/) - In response to the draconian abortion ban passed by Texas and legitimized by the Supreme Court, GJC stood in solidarity with abortion providers and demanded action in Washington. - [Fall 2022 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/fall-2022-newsletter/) - After stalling for years, the draft Crimes Against Humanity treaty advanced when a UN committee approved a resolution in November. The treaty would close major gaps in the prosecution of mass atrocities. - [Spring 2022 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/spring-2022-newsletter/) - Following this week's disastrous news that the US Supreme Court is prepared to overturn Roe v. Wade, we rallied in New York and Washington D.C. with our allies in the movement for abortion rights. Our message? Abortion is a human right. - [Summer 2022 Newsletter](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/newsletter/summer-2022-newsletter/) - Along with countless feminists across the United States and around the world, we took to the streets the day the Supreme Court announced its ruling repealing the constitutional right to abortion. As ever, GJC was ready to fight back. ## Donations - [Workplace Giving](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/donation/find-out-about-employer-company-matching/) - Many companies match employee contributions to charitable organizations. Search below to see if your employer will match your generosity and increase the impact of your gift. - [Use Donor-Advised Funds](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/donation/use-donor-advised-funds/) - Donor Advised funds allow you to make a charitable contribution, receive an immediate tax deduction, and then recommend grants from the fund over time. - [Donate from your IRA](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/donation/donate-from-your-ira/) - If you’re 70-1/2 or older, you can donate up to $100,000 per tax year directly from an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) to charities like the Global Justice Center. - [Make a Planned Gift](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/donation/make-a-tribute-planned-or-legacy-gift/) - GJC envisions a gender-equal world where every person lives free from violence, has full bodily autonomy, and has the power to access justice to protect and promote their human rights. Your planned gift will support our critical advocacy work now and in the future. - [Join GJC’s Reproductive Rights Circle](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/donation/gjc-reproductive-rights-circle/) - Global Justice Center’s Reproductive Rights Circle enables GJC to implement a crisis response strategy in the wake of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization that inserts human rights legal analysis into state- and national-level litigation and public policy debates on abortion access. - [Donate Online or Mail a Check](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/donation/become-a-probono-partner/) - [Fundraise for GJC](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/donation/create-a-fundraising-event-to-benefit-gjc/) - No matter what type of fundraiser (birthday, social media, benefit dinner, marathon), you can raise money to support GJC’s work worldwide. - [Donate to The Janet Benshoof Memorial Fund](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/donation/donate-to-the-janet-benshoof-memorial-fund/) - Janet Benshoof was a generational force and tireless advocate for the rule of law and women’s equality. Consider a gift to the Janet Benshoof Memorial Fund at the Global Justice Center to honor her life and help carry on her legacy. - [Become a Gender Justice Champion](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/donation/become-a-gender-justice-champion/) - Becoming a Gender Justice Champion is the easiest, most efficient way to provide the continued support we rely on to fight for gender equality and human rights. As a member of this monthly donor community, you’ll play a key role in accelerating our advocacy impact by sustaining our work year-round and receive many membership benefits. ## Careers - [Legal Fellow](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/career/legal-fellow/) - GJC considers candidates for sponsored Legal Fellowships, i.e. where the prospective fellow has already secured or seeks to partner with GJC to apply to secure funding, on a continuous basis. Recent law school graduates with such external funding or opportunity to partner with GJC to apply for such funding are encouraged to apply. ## Op-Eds - [Opinio Juris | Sexual and Reproductive Violence as Genocide in The Gambia v. Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/opinio-juris-sexual-and-reproductive-violence-as-genocide-in-the-gambia-v-myanmar/) - by Marianne Vitug - [Just Security | Codifying Forced Marriage in the Crimes Against Humanity Convention: From Jurisprudence to Treaty Text](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/just-security-codifying-forced-marriage-in-the-crimes-against-humanity-convention-from-jurisprudence-to-treaty-text/) - by Elise Keppler and Maryanne Koussa - [Women's Media Center | The Only Meaningful Resolution to the Rohingya Crisis Is One That Centers Rohingya Women](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/the-only-meaningful-resolution-to-the-rohingya-crisis-is-one-that-centers-rohingya-women/) - By Michelle Onello - [Mizzima | Rohingya Women Are Central to Resolving Myanmar’s Crisis](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/mizzima-rohingya-women-are-central-to-resolving-myanmars-crisis/) - by Michelle Onello - [Ms. Magazine | The Ripple Effects of the U.S. Retreat from International Reproductive Care](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/the-ripple-effects-of-the-u-s-retreat-from-international-reproductive-care/) - by Jaime M. Gher, Payal Shah and Floriane Borel - [Women's Enews | U.S. Seeks to Defy Rights Review Amid Escalating Assault on Reproductive Autonomy](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/womens-enews-u-s-seeks-to-defy-rights-review-amid-escalating-assault-on-reproductive-autonomy/) - by Allison Love - [Ms. Magazine | The U.N. Should Condemn the U.S.’ Human Rights Record on Abortion](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/ms-magazine-the-u-n-should-condemn-the-u-s-human-rights-record-on-abortion/) - by Elise Keppler & Jaime M. Gher - [Ms. Magazine | Secretary of State Marco Rubio Will Be a Disaster for Women](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/ms-magazine-secretary-of-state-marco-rubio-will-be-a-disaster-for-women/) - by Jaime M. Gher & Thomas Dresslar - [Just Security | New UN Guidance Calling for Restraints on Conscientious Objection to Abortion Care](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/just-security-new-un-guidance-calling-for-restraints-on-conscientious-objection-to-abortion-care/) - by Jaime M. Gher & Cynthia Soohoo - [Ms. Magazine | There’s a Growing Movement to Recognize Abortion as a Human Right. A Recent Supreme Court Case Shows How Necessary This Is.](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/ms-magazine-theres-a-growing-movement-to-recognize-abortion-as-a-human-right-a-recent-supreme-court-case-shows-how-necessary-this-is/) - By GJC Senior Legal Advisor Jaime M. Gher - [Just Security | Progress on Gender Justice Continues as States Consider Next Steps on Draft Crimes Against Humanity Treaty](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/just-security-progress-on-gender-justice-continues-as-states-consider-next-steps-on-draft-crimes-against-humanity-treaty/) - by GJC Legal Advisor Kelly Adams - [Daily Maverick | African states can tip the balance for a treaty on crimes against humanity](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/daily-maverick-african-states-can-tip-the-balance-for-a-treaty-on-crimes-against-humanity/) - by GJC Executive Director Elise Keppler - [Ms. Magazine | Erased From Public Life: Women Under the Taliban Regime](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/ms-magazine-erased-from-public-life-women-under-the-taliban-regime/) - by Michelle Onello and Rebecca Hulst - [Ms. Magazine | ‘We Must Use Every Tool at Our Disposal’: Abortion’s Legal Landscape With Center for Reproductive Rights and Global Justice Center Attorneys](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/ms-magazine-we-must-use-every-tool-at-our-disposal-abortions-legal-landscape-with-center-for-reproductive-rights-and-global-justice-center-attorneys/) - by Jaime Gher and Marc Hearron - [The Diplomat | The Devastating Gendered Impacts of Myanmar’s Coup](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/the-diplomat-the-devastating-gendered-impacts-of-myanmars-coup/) - by GJC Senior Legal Advisor Michelle Onello - [Opinio Juris | Symposium on Reproductive Violence in International Law: Reproductive Violence Against the Rohingya – A Perspective on Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/opinio-juris-symposium-on-reproductive-violence-in-international-law-reproductive-violence-against-the-rohingya-a-perspective-on-myanmar/) - by Grant Shubin and Wai Wai Nu - [Just Security | Support Grows for Gender Justice at UN Session on Draft Crimes Against Humanity Treaty](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/just-security-support-grows-for-gender-justice-at-un-session-on-draft-crimes-against-humanity-treaty/) - by GJC Legal Advisor Kelly Adams - [Daily Maverick | Time for Africa to rally around a global crimes against humanity treaty](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/daily-maverick-time-for-africa-to-rally-around-a-global-crimes-against-humanity-treaty/) - by GJC Executive Director Elise Keppler - [Ms. Magazine | The Lie at the Heart of the Latest Supreme Court Abortion Case](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/the-lie-at-the-heart-of-the-latest-supreme-court-abortion-case/) - by GJC Legal Advisor Tess Graham - [Just Security | Signals of Support for Gender Justice in the Draft Treaty on Crimes Against Humanity](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/just-security-signals-of-support-for-gender-justice-in-the-draft-treaty-on-crimes-against-humanity/) - by GJC Legal Advisor Paloma van Groll - [The Hill | President Biden says he’s fighting back against abortion bans. He’s ignoring the oldest one](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/president-biden-says-hes-fighting-back-against-abortion-bans-hes-ignoring-the-oldest-one/) - By Akila Radhakrishnan and Anu Kumar - [Just Security | Draft Crimes Against Humanity Treaty: Toward a Gender Progressive, Survivor-Centric, Intersectional Approach](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/just-security-draft-crimes-against-humanity-treaty-toward-a-gender-progressive-survivor-centric-intersectional-approach/) - by GJC Legal Advisor Paloma van Groll - [Just Security | Continued Positive Momentum on Crimes Against Humanity Treaty](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/just-security-continued-positive-momentum-on-crimes-against-humanity-treaty/) - by Akila Radhakrishnan and Leila Nadya Sadat - [Just Security | Why the Crimes against Humanity Treaty Should Codify Gender Apartheid](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/why-the-crimes-against-humanity-treaty-should-codify-gender-apartheid/) - by Akila Radhakrishnan, Sareta Ashraph, Gissou Nia, Nushin Sarkarati and Alyssa Yamamoto - [Ms. Magazine | Doctors on the Abortion Rights Crisis: We Cannot ‘Ignore This Real Human Suffering’ and ‘Feel Compelled to Speak Out’](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/ms-magazine-doctors-on-the-abortion-rights-crisis-we-cannot-ignore-this-real-human-suffering-and-feel-compelled-to-speak-out/) - by Diana Greene Foster, Jennifer Griggs, Elissa Serapio and Allison Lenselink - [The Nation | It’s Time to Call Abortion Bans What They Are—Torture and Cruelty](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/the-nation-its-time-to-call-abortion-bans-what-they-are-torture-and-cruelty/) - by Akila Radhakrishnan and Payal Shah - [Just Security | Progress, Resistance, and Silence on Gender Justice in the Draft Crimes Against Humanity Treaty](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/just-security-progress-resistance-and-silence-on-gender-justice-in-the-draft-crimes-against-humanity-treaty/) - by GJC Legal Advisor Tess Graham - [Just Security | Differences ‘Getting Narrower’ on Proposed Crimes Against Humanity Treaty](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/just-security-differences-getting-narrower-on-proposed-crimes-against-humanity-treaty/) - by Akila Radhakrishnan and Leila Sadat - [American Bar Association | The Decision Heard Around the World: The Global Impact of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/american-bar-association-the-decision-heard-around-the-world-the-global-impact-of-dobbs-v-jackson-womens-health-organization/) - by GJC President Akila Radhakrishnan - [Women's Media Center | Women Tortured in Ireland’s Magdalene Laundries Looked to the UN for Justice. They’re Still Looking.](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/womens-media-center-women-tortured-in-irelands-magdalene-laundries-looked-to-the-un-for-justice-theyre-still-looking/) - by GJC Legal Intern Katelyn Buckles - [Foreign Policy | Nigeria’s Alleged Forced Abortion Campaign Demands Action](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/foreign-policy-nigerias-alleged-forced-abortion-campaign-demands-action/) - By Akila Radhakrishnan, Lauren Aarons, and Osai Ojigho - [Just Security | On Crimes Against Humanity, Protect the UN Sixth Committee’s Integrity With Action](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/on-crimes-against-humanity-protect-the-un-sixth-committee-s-integrity-with-action/) - by Akila Radhakrishnan and Leila Sadat - [Just Security | Coming Debates to Advance New Treaty on Crimes Against Humanity Will Require Skillful Leadership](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/just-security-coming-debates-to-advance-new-treaty-on-crimes-against-humanity-will-require-skillful-leadership/) - by Akila Radhakrishnan and Leila Sadat - [New York Times | Letter: In Myanmar, Seize the Moment](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/new-york-times-letter-in-myanmar-seize-the-moment/) - By GJC President Janet Benshoof - [Washington Post | Letter: Justice in Burma](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/justice-in-burma-washington-post/) - By GJC President Janet Benshoof - [Far Eastern Economic Review | The Junta's Criminal Constitution](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/junta-s-criminal-constitution/) - By Janet Benshoof and U Aung Htoo - [On The Issues | Twisted Treaty Shafts U.S. Women](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/on-the-issues-twisted-treaty-shafts-u-s-women-winter-2009/) - By GJC President Janet Benshoof - [Far Eastern Economic Review | A Letter to Ban Ki-moon](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/letter-ban-ki-moon/) - By GJC President Janet Benshoof - [On The Issues | Justice for Aung San Suu Kyi: End Male Power Structures](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/on-the-issues-justice-for-aung-san-suu-kyi-end-male-power-structures-winter-2010/) - By GJC President Janet Benshoof - [RH Reality Check | Why Is The U.S. Waging War on Women Raped in War?](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/reality-check-why-is-the-u-s-waging-war-on-women-raped-in-war-august-2011/) - By Kristina Kallas and Akila Radhakrishnan - [New York Times | Humanitarian Aid for Rape Victims](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/global-justice-center-s-august-12-campaign-on-lifting-u-s-abortion-restrictions-on-humanitarian-aid-gets-editorial-in-the-new-york-times/) - By New York Times Editorial Board - [Democratic Voice of Burma | Burma’s New Threat to Global Security](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/democratic-voices-of-burma-burma-s-new-threat-to-global-security-october-2011/) - By GJC President Janet Benshoof - [New York Times | Letter: Change in Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/gjc-president-janet-benshoof-s-letter-to-the-editor-published-in-new-york-times/) - By GJC President Janet Benshoof - [The Atlantic | Foreign Policy, Akin-Style: How the U.S. Denies Abortions to Women Raped in War](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/time-magazine-mentions-gjc-helms-advocacy-8/) - By Akila Radhakrishnan and Kristina Kallas - [Women's Media Center | How US policy denies life-saving care to women raped in war](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/how-us-policy-denies-life-saving-care-to-women-raped-in-war/) - By GJC Vice President and Legal Director Akila Radhakrishnan - [Huffington Post | In Response to Amb. Cathy Russell](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/in-response-to-amb-cathy-russell/) - By GJC President Janet Benshoof - [Ms. Magazine | Burma's Hollow Reforms](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/burma-s-hollow-reforms/) - By GJC Vice President and Legal Director Akila Radhakrishnan - [Women's Media Center | The smartest way to end rape in war](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/the-smartest-way-to-end-rape-in-war/) - By GJC President Janet Benshoof - [Ms. Magazine | The Cruelest Weapon](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/the-cruelest-weapon/) - By Akila Radhakrishnan and Kristina Kallas - [New York Times | Letter: Rape As a Weapon in Syria](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/letter-to-the-ny-times-editor-rape-in-syria-march-2014/) - By GJC Legal Director Akila Radhakrishnan - [Perspectives | Out-of-the-Box Approaches Advance Women's Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/out-of-the-box-approaches-advance-women-s-rights/) - By GJC President Janet Benshoof - [Pass Blue | One Year Later, the World Must Stop Boko Haram Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/time-magazine-mentions-gjc-helms-advocacy-4/) - By GJC President Janet Benshoof - [Women's Media Center | New report details ongoing sexualized violence in Burma](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/new-report-details-ongoing-sexualized-violence-in-burma/) - By Akila Radhakrishnan and Michelle Onello - [New York Times | Letter: Abortions for Rape Victims](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/letter-to-the-ny-times-editor-abortions-for-rape-victims-may-2015/) - By GJC President Janet Benshoof - [Ms. Magazine | Not Only Voiceless, But Choice-less: The Impregnated Victims of Boko Haram](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/ms-magazine-voiceless-choiceless/) - By Vice-President and Legal Director Akila Radhakrishnan - [New York Times | Letter: Horrified by ISIS’ Use of Sex Slaves](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/janet-benshoof-writes-new-york-times-on-the-genocide-of-the-yazidi-women-august-2015/) - By GJC President Janet Benshoof - [New York Times | ISIS Crimes of Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/janet-benshoof-writes-new-york-times-on-prosecution-of-isis-crimes-as-genocide/) - By GJC President Janet Benshoof - [Democratic Voice of Burma | It’s Time to Speak Truth to Power: Why Tomas Ojea Quintana Should Change His Tune](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/it-s-time-to-speak-truth-to-power-why-tomas-quintana-should-change-his-tune/) - By GJC President Janet Benshoof - [Newsweek | Will No One Save the Yazidis From Extinction?](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/gjc-published-in-newsweek-on-anniversary-of-sinjar-massacre/) - By Grant Shubin and Pari Ibrahim - [TIME | How Obama Failed Women Raped in War](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/gjc-legal-director-akila-radhakrishnan-published-in-time-on-the-anniversary-of-the-geneva-conventions-2/) - By GJC Legal Director Akila Radhakrishnan - [Ms. Magazine | How Seven Words Deny Abortions to Women Raped in War](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/how-seven-words-deny-abortions-to-women-raped-in-war/) - By GJC Staff Attorney Grant Shubin - [Just Security | The Islamic State, Genocide, and Gender Discrimination](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/the-islamic-state-genocide-and-gender-discrimination/) - By GJC Staff Attorney Grant Shubin - [New York Times | Letter: Human Rights in Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/phyu-phyu-sann-writes-the-new-york-times/) - By GJC Senior Burma Researcher Phyu Phyu Sann - [Huffington Post | What Does 'One Humanity' Mean For Victims Of War Rape Around The World?](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/what-does-one-humanity-mean-for-victims-of-war-rape-around-the-world/) - By Janet Benshoof and Eleanor Smeal - [New York Times | Letter: The International Criminal Court and the U.S.](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/gjc-eu-and-un-director-writes-letter-to-the-editor-of-the-new-york-times/) - By GJC UN and EU Director Stephanie Johanssen - [Rewire | With Trump Presidency, A Coming Collision With Global Standards on Torture, Abortion Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/gjc-legal-director-publishes-op-ed-in-rewire/) - By GJC Legal Director Akila Radhakrishnan - [New York Times | Letter: Trump’s Action on Reproductive RightsAbroad](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/akila-radhakrishnan-writes-the-new-york-times-on-trump-s-expansion-of-the-global-gag-rule/) - By GJC Vice President and Legal Director Akila Radhakrishnan - [Ms. Magazine | Going Beyond Roe](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/elena-sarver-ms-magazine/) - By GJC Legal Fellow Elena Sarver - [Ms. Magazine | No More Compromises: Fighting Abortion Restrictions The Right Way](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/read-janet-benshoofs-piece-in-ms/) - By GJC President Janet Benshoof - [Bistandsaktuelt | Women and girls raped in war need Norway’s support](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/read-janet-benshoof-and-martin-fowler-s-article-in-bistandsaktuelt/) - By Janet Benshoof and Martin Fowler - [Fair Observer | The Genocide of Yazidis is Not Over](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/read-liz-olson-s-piece-in-the-fair-observer/) - By GJC Communications and Development Associate Liz Olson - [New York Times | Letter: ISIS War Against Yazidi](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/akila-radhakrishnan-writes-the-new-york-times-on-the-yazidi-genocide/) - By GJC Vice President and Legal Director Akila Radhakrishnan - [International Law Girls | Exporting Censorship](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/international-law-girls-exporting-censorship/) - By Kristin Smith and Akila Radhakrishnan - [Women's Media Center | Attorney General Sessions violates international law](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/womens-media-center-attorney-general-sessions-violates-international-law/) - By Akila Radhakrishnan and Michelle Onello - [Women's Media Center | Yet again, the world is failing genocide victims](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/womens-media-center-yet-again-the-world-is-failing-genocide-victims/) - By GJC President Akila Radhakrishnan - [Ms. Magazine | I Won’t Stop Fighting for Title X—Because it Transformed My Mother’s Life](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/ms-magazine-i-wont-stop-fighting-for-title-x-because-it-transformed-my-mothers-life/) - By GJC Development Director Danielle Stouck - [Pass Blue | No Justice for Yazidi Women Yet: Why Not?](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/pass-blue-no-justice-for-yazidi-women-yet-why-not/) - By GJC President Akila Radhakrishnan - [International Law Girls | The Akayesu Judgment at 20: looking back, pushing forward](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/international-law-girls-the-akayesu-judgment-at-20-looking-back-pushing-forward/) - By Akila Radhakrishnan and Sareta Ashraph - [Ms. Magazine | How Gender Shaped the Rohingya Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/ms-magazine-how-gender-shaped-the-rohingya-genocide/) - By GJC Legal Advisor Elena Sarver - [Newsweek | Why Aren't American Women's Rights Guaranteed by Law?](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/read-janet-benshoof-and-sierra-sippel-s-article-in-newsweek/) - By Janet Benshoof and Sierra Sippel - [New York Times | Letter: Sanctions on Myanmar Won’t Work](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/gjc-president-writes-letter-to-the-editor-of-the-new-york-times/) - By GJC President Janet Benshoof - [Ms. Magazine | Remembering Janet Benshoof](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/remembering-janet-benshoof/) - By Akila Radhakrishnan and Kristina Kallas - [New York Times | Letter: Justice for Victims of ISIS](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/grant-shubin-justice-for-isis-victums/) - By GJC Staff Attorney Grant Shubin - [Washington Post | Letter: Call the crimes against the Rohingya what they are: Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/call-the-crimes-against-the-rohingya-what-they-are-genocide/) - By GJC Deputy Legal Director Grant Shubin - [Just Security | Beyond Killing: The Critical Role of Gender in the Recognition, Prevention and Punishment of Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/beyond-killing-the-critical-role-of-gender-in-the-recognition-prevention-and-punishment-of-genocide/) - By Akila Radhakrishnan and Sareta Ashraph - [Ms. Magazine | International Law Demands the U.S. Do Better on Abortion Policy](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/international-law-demands-the-u-s-do-better-on-abortion-policy/) - By GJC Staff Attorney Danielle Hites - [Ms. Magazine | Where Can Refugees Turn for Abortions?](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/where-can-refugees-turn-for-abortions/) - by GJC Development Director Danielle Stouck - [PassBlue | US Abortion Restrictions Violate Women’s Human Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/us-abortion-restrictions-violate-women-s-human-rights/) - by Akila Radhakrishnan and Serra Sippel - [Ms. Magazine | When Reporting on Rape Stands in the Way of Justice](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/when-reporting-on-rape-stands-in-the-way-of-justice/) - by GJC Communications Manager Liz Olson - [Women's Media Center | Much More Than Language: How the US Denied Survivors of Rape in Conflict Lifesaving Care](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/much-more-than-language-how-the-u-s-denied-survivors-of-rape-in-conflict-lifesaving-care/) - by GJC Deputy Legal Director Grant Shubin - [Ms. Magazine | There’s Nothing “Pro-Life” About Sweeping Abortion Bans](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/there-s-nothing-pro-life-about-sweeping-abortion-bans/) - by GJC Communications Manager Liz Olson - [Fair Observer | US Move on Reproductive Rights Sets Dangerous Precedent](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/us-move-on-reproductive-rights-sets-dangerous-precedent/) - by GJC Legal Adviser Elena Sarver - [Ms. Magazine | Trump’s Gag Rules Hurt the Most Vulnerable Women](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/trump-s-gag-rules-hurt-the-most-vulnerable-women/) - by GJC Legal Adviser Elena Sarver - [Ms. Magazine | “Never Again” Means Holding the Trump Administration Accountable](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/never-again-means-holding-the-trump-administration-accountable/) - by GJC Development and Operations Assistant Sophia Fiore - [Ms. Magazine | Ending Impunity for Gender-Based Violence in Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/ending-impunity-for-gender-based-violence-in-genocide-2/) - by GJC Legal Intern Katherine Comly - [Washington Post | Letter: Countries are legally bound to punish Myanmar’s genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/countries-are-legally-bound-to-punish-myanmar-s-genocide/) - By GJC Deputy Legal Director Grant Shubin - [Ms. Magazine | In Which Trump Reminded the Global Community How Hateful He Really Is](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/in-which-trump-reminded-the-global-community-how-hateful-he-really-is/) - by GJC Program Coordinator Merrite Johnson - [Rewire News | Melinda Gates’ $1 Billion Gender Equality Initiative Will Fail If It Ignores Abortion Rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/melinda-gates-1-billion-gender-equality-initiative-will-fail-if-it-ignores-abortion-rights/) - by GJC Development Director Danielle Stouck - [Mizzima | Gender Inequality and Sexual Violence in Myanmar: Part of the Problem is Preventing a Cure](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/gender-inequality-and-sexual-violence-in-myanmar-part-of-the-problem-is-preventing-a-cure/) - by Phyu Phyu Sann & Michelle Onello - [Women's Media Center | There can be no real accountability in Myanmar if women remain on the sidelines](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/there-can-be-no-real-accountability-in-myanmar-if-women-remain-on-the-sidelines/) - By Phyu Phyu Sann and Olivia Nightingale - [Ms. Magazine | How the International Criminal Court Has Failed LGBTQ Survivors](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/how-the-international-criminal-court-has-failed-lgbtq-survivors/) - by GJC legal intern Claire McLeod - [Ms. Magazine | The Persistent Danger of Trump’s Definition of “Unalienable Rights”](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/the-persistent-danger-of-trump-s-definition-of-unalienable-rights/) - by GJC Legal Advisor Elena Sarver - [Pass Blue | Myanmar’s Silence on Rape Against Rohingya Is Cruel and Dangerous](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/myanmar-s-silence-on-rape-against-rohingya-is-cruel-and-dangerous/) - by GJC President Akila Radhakrishnan - [Just Security | Behind Myanmar’s Military Alibi: A Path for Compliance with the ICJ’s Order to Protect Rohingya](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/behind-myanmar-s-military-alibi-a-path-for-compliance-with-the-icj-s-order-to-protect-rohingya/) - by Akila Radhakrishnan and Grant Shubin - [Ms. Magazine | Latin American Feminists Are Rising Up Against Violence. The International Community Should Join Them.](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/latin-american-feminists-are-rising-up-against-violence-the-international-community-should-join-them/) - by GJC Staff Attorney Danielle Hites - [CNN | Abortion is a human right. A pandemic doesn't change that](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/abortion-is-a-human-right-a-pandemic-doesn-t-change-that/) - by GJC President Akila Radhakrishnan - [Foreign Policy | Trump’s Chilling Blow to the ICC](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/trump-s-chilling-blow-to-the-icc/) - by Akila Radhakrishnan and Elena Sarver - [Just Security | Myanmar and the ICJ: Ways Forward](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/myanmar-and-the-icj-ways-forward/) - by GJC Legal Director Grant Shubin - [Just Security | Implications of the Myanmar ICJ and ICC Cases for Non-Rohingya Minorities](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/implications-of-the-myanmar-icj-and-icc-cases-for-non-rohingya-minorities/) - by GJC Legal Director Grant Shubin - [Ms. Magazine | Mandatory Birth Control: China Weaponizes Reproductive Health Against Uyghur Women](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/mandatory-birth-control-china-weaponizes-reproductive-health-against-uyghur-women/) - By GJC Legal Intern Shelby Logan - [Opinio Juris | Rohingya Symposium: From Rhetoric to Justice–Ensuring a Gender Perspective in Accountability Proceedings for the Rohingya Genocide](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/rohingya-symposium-from-rhetoric-to-justice-ensuring-a-gender-perspective-in-accountability-proceedings-for-the-rohingya-genocide/) - By GJC President Akila Radhakrishnan - [The Hill | The Trump administration's war on abortion rights is worse than you think](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/the-trump-administration-s-war-on-abortion-rights-is-worse-than-you-think/) - By GJC Special Counsel Michelle Onello - [Ms. Magazine | Mike Pompeo Is Wrong: There *Is* an International Right to Abortion](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/mike-pompeo-is-wrong-there-is-an-international-right-to-abortion/) - By GJC Program Coordinator Merrite Johnson - [Women's Media Center | It’s Time We Talk About Gender-Based Violence Against Hong Kong Protestors](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/it-s-time-we-talk-about-gender-based-violence-against-hong-kong-protestors/) - by GJC intern Hannah Kohn - [Foreign Policy | Rescinding the Global Gag Rule Isn’t Enough](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/rescinding-the-global-gag-rule-isn-t-enough/) - by Akila Radhakrishnan and Serra Sippel - [Women's Media Center | The Biden Administration’s Moves to Protect Abortion are Good, Just Not Good Enough](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/the-biden-administration-s-moves-to-protect-abortion-are-good-just-not-good-enough/) - by GJC Special Counsel Michelle Onello - [Ms. Magazine | The International Criminal Court Still Has Work to Do on Gender-Based Crimes](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/the-international-criminal-court-still-has-work-to-do-on-gender-based-crimes/) - By GJC Staff Attorney Danielle Hites - [Foreign Policy | Myanmar’s Coup Is Devastating for Women](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/myanmar-s-coup-is-devastating-for-women/) - by Akila Radhakrishnan and Michelle Onello - [The Diplomat | Reversing the Coup is No Solution for Myanmar](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/reversing-the-coup-is-no-solution-for-myanmar/) - by Akila Radhakrishnan and Michelle Onello - [Just Security | Beyond the Coup in Myanmar: A Crisis Born from Impunity](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/beyond-the-coup-in-myanmar-a-crisis-born-from-impunity/) - by Akila Radhakrishnan and Grant Shubin - [Women's Media Center | Myanmar’s Garment Workers Are Fighting for Freedom. It’s Time We Fought with Them.](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/myanmar-s-garment-workers-are-fighting-for-freedom-it-s-time-we-fought-with-them/) - by GJC Legal Intern Courtney Vice - [Opinio Juris | Symposium on the Current Crisis in Myanmar: Untangling Myanmar’s Credentials Battle and the Implications for International Justice](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/symposium-on-the-current-crisis-in-myanmar-untangling-myanmar-s-credentials-battle-and-the-implications-for-international-justice/) - by GJC Legal Director Grant Shubin - [Just Security | Expanding Justice for Gender-Based Crimes with a Treaty on Crimes Against Humanity](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/expanding-justice-for-gender-based-crimes-with-a-treaty-on-crimes-against-humanity/) - by Akila Radhakrishnan and Danielle Hites - [Washington Post | Letter: There is no middle ground on human rights — including abortion rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/opinion-there-is-no-middle-ground-on-human-rights-including-abortion-rights/) - By GJC President Akila Radhakrishnan - [Just Security | Crimes Against Humanity: Little Progress on Treaty as UN Legal Committee Concludes its Work](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/crimes-against-humanity-little-progress-on-treaty-as-un-legal-committee-concludes-its-work/) - by GJC President Akila Radhakrishnan - [Ms. Magazine | The U.S. Can’t Be a Global Leader on Democracy While Banning Abortion at Home](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/the-u-s-can-t-be-a-global-leader-on-democracy-while-banning-abortion-at-home/) - by GJC Legal Advisor Elena Sarver - [The Hill | The whole world is watching for Biden's plan to protect abortion rights](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/the-whole-world-is-watching-for-biden-s-plan-to-protect-abortion-rights/) - by Akila Radhakrishnan and Anu Kumar - [Ms. Magazine | Ukrainian Victims of Wartime Rape May Be Forced To Give Birth—All Thanks to This U.S. Policy](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/ukrainian-victims-of-wartime-rape-may-be-forced-to-give-birth-all-thanks-to-this-u-s-policy/) - by GJC Legal Director Dr. Christine Ryan - [Women's Media Center | The Science is In: Abortion Bans Are a Public Health Emergency](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/the-science-is-in-abortion-bans-are-a-public-health-emergency/) - by GJC Program Coordinator Merrite Johnson - [Opinio Juris | Symposium in Pursuit of Intersectional Justice at the International Criminal Court: Ongwen amici curiae Submissions from a Feminist Collective of Lawyers and Scholars](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/symposium-in-pursuit-of-intersectional-justice-at-the-international-criminal-court-ongwen-amici-curiae-submissions-from-a-feminist-collective-of-lawyers-and-scholars/) - by GJC Senior Legal Advisor Angela Mudukuti - [Opinio Juris | Symposium in Pursuit of Intersectional Justice at the International Criminal Court: Group Three – Observations on Forced Pregnancy – Protecting Personal and Reproductive Autonomy](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/symposium-in-pursuit-of-intersectional-justice-at-the-international-criminal-court-group-three-observations-on-forced-pregnancy-protecting-personal-and-reproductive-autonomy/) - by GJC President Akila Radhakrishnan - [Women's Media Center | Reproductive Rights Are Under Attack. Climate Change Will Make It Worse.](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/reproductive-rights-are-under-attack-climate-change-will-make-it-worse/) - by GJC Legal Intern Dakota Porter - [The Nation | Roe Is the Past, Human Rights Are the Future](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/roe-is-the-past-human-rights-are-the-future/) - by GJC President Akila Radhakrishnan. - [Ms. Magazine | The Fight to Secure U.S. Abortion Rights Is Global](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/the-fight-to-secure-u-s-abortion-rights-is-global/) - by Michelle Onello and Elena Sarver - [The Hill | Abortion: Ireland’s past is America’s future](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/op_eds/abortion-ireland-s-past-is-america-s-future/) - by GJC Legal Director Dr. Christine Ryan ## Categories - [Letters](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/category/letters/) - [Advocacy Resources](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/category/advocacy-resources/) - [Academic Articles](https://www.globaljusticecenter.net/category/academic-articles/) - 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