The president of the National Human Rights Council (CNDH), Namizata Sangaré , took advantage of the presentation of the 2024 Human Rights Report in the National Assembly to launch a solemn appeal to the members of parliament . Addressing the Speaker of the National Assembly, Adama Bictogo, her plea emphasized two key moments in December: the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence and International Human Rights Day (December 10), this year themed: “Human Rights: Our Essentials.”

Femicides and cyberviolence: a collective failure

Namizata Sangaré stressed that femicides and digital violence should not be treated as mere isolated incidents, but as serious human rights violations that require national mobilization.

“Every femicide is an irreparable tragedy, a collective failure. Every instance of online violence (cyberbullying, blackmail, non-consensual distribution of images, threats) prolongs and amplifies the violence already suffered offline. The protection of women and girls is non-negotiable ,” she said.

Role of the National Assembly: to adapt the legal framework

The president of the CNDH reminded legislators of their crucial role in protecting the population from this violence. She outlined specific expectations of the members of parliament:

1. Strengthen the legal framework to better prevent, punish and ensure reparation for victims.
2. To ensure the effectiveness of laws to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable.
3. Encourage the establishment of national alert, care and prevention systems .
4. Promote equality and non-discrimination in all public policies.

"The National Assembly, through its voice, can change mindsets, secure physical and digital spaces and ensure that gender violence is no longer tolerated or minimized," she stated.

The CNDH's commitment and call for unity

The CNDH reaffirmed its commitment to documenting cases of violence , issuing regular alerts, and supporting survivors through listening and referral mechanisms. Its missions also include awareness campaigns, training key stakeholders (magistrates, security forces), and recommending legislative and institutional reforms to combat femicide and online violence more effectively.

In conclusion, Namizata Sangaré made a powerful appeal for unity:

“No woman, no girl should live in fear, neither at home, nor in the street, nor on the internet. The fight against violence against women is an essential component of human dignity . It is a fight we will win by remaining united: institutions, elected officials, organizations, communities and citizens.”

She reminded parliamentarians that human rights are not a luxury, but the foundation upon which the dignity, security and stability of the nation rest.