Dakar hosted the official launch of the Network of Women Leaders for Development (RFLD) in Senegal. The event was marked by a strong advocacy for women human rights defenders, who are often at the forefront of social struggles, but also among those most exposed to intimidation and violence.

Speaking on behalf of the network's Africa director, Gloria Dossi Agueh, the RFLD's Senegal focal point, Bator Seck, explained that the choice of Senegal for the organization's establishment is based on historical and strategic logic.

"Senegal is a land of dialogue, citizen mobilization, sisterhood, resistance and hope," she said, recalling the major role played by several generations of Senegalese women in the struggles for human rights, democracy and social justice.

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For the RFLD, Senegal also represents an essential crossroads in West Africa where the ideas, citizen movements and aspirations of the peoples of the sub-region converge.

But beyond launching its activities, the network chose to place the situation of women human rights defenders at the center of discussions. "Throughout West Africa, women are rising up every day to defend victims of violence, girls' rights, democracy, peace and fundamental freedoms," Bator Seck reminded everyone.

According to her, these committed women often pay a heavy price for their struggle. Threats, violence, smear campaigns, harassment, and isolation are part of their daily lives in several countries in the region. "Yet, those who defend human rights are often themselves exposed to violence," she lamented.

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Faced with this reality, the RFLD intends to use its presence in Senegal as a lever to strengthen African feminist solidarity and offer more spaces for support and protection to women engaged in defending rights.

For Ms. Seck, protecting women human rights defenders means protecting the very foundations of democracy and social justice. "Protecting women human rights defenders is not just about protecting individuals. It's about protecting the voices that raise the alarm, mobilize, and prevent our societies from regressing," she insisted.

The network aims to work alongside local organizations, feminist movements and young leaders to build lasting alliances for a West Africa where women can fully exercise their rights and leadership.

Moreover, the message delivered in Dakar resonates as a call for vigilance: progress in women's rights and fundamental freedoms remains fragile and requires constant mobilization.