Category: MIL-OSI

Posted on

Kruger National Park restores infrastructure

Source: Government of South Africa

Kruger National Park restores infrastructure

Restoration work is underway in the Kruger National Park following the flood damage sustained last month, says the South African National Parks (SANParks).

The floods caused extensive damage to roads, bridges, tourism facilities, and staff living quarters. 

The park’s H7 Route (Orpen Gate to Satara) is now open to traffic.

“Due to significant flood damage at Nsemani Dam Area, only one lane is currently accessible. Motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution when passing through this section. Heavy vehicles exceeding eight tonnes are not permitted.

“SANParks is constructing a bypass via the S12 and S40 routes. This bypass will serve as an alternative route during dam repairs and reconstruction, ensuring continued accessibility,” SANParks said.

Furthermore, Tsendze Rustic Camp (near Mopani Rest Camp), Masorini Ruins – a Late Iron Age Site (12kms from Phalaborwa Gate) as well as Mooiplaas (near Mopani Rest Camp) and Babalala (between Punda Maria and Shingwedzi Camps) picnic sites are open as of Monday, 2 February 2026.

Guests are reminded that gravel roads marked with “No Entry” signs must not be accessed under any circumstances. 

Orpen Gate is now accessible for Open Safari Vehicles (OSVs). A quota system will apply to manage traffic flow and ensure visitor safety.

“SANParks acknowledges the inconvenience caused by the floods and appreciates the patience and cooperation of visitors during this period. Our teams are working tirelessly to restore infrastructure and ensure that Kruger National Park remains a safe and enjoyable destination for all.” –SAnews.gov.za

 

 

nosihle

41 views

Posted on

Minister of State for International Cooperation Meets Head of Syrian Planning and Statistics Authority

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha | February 4, 2026

HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Dr. Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad meets on Wednesday with HE Head of the Planning and Statistics Authority in the sisterly Syrian Arab Republic Anas Salim, who is currently visiting the country.

During the meeting, the two sides discuss cooperation relations between the two countries and ways to support and strengthen them, particularly in the humanitarian fields, as well as early recovery and reconstruction projects. The meeting also addresses a number of issues of common interest.

Posted on

Temporary lane closures on the R21

Source: Government of South Africa

Temporary lane closures on the R21

The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has advised road users of the temporary lane closure of the two fast lanes on the National Road R21, Section 2 Northbound (km 0.3), at Olifantsfontein.

The lane closure is due to the rehabilitation of a sinkhole and will end on 30 April 2026. 

These closures are necessary to facilitate the rehabilitation and road repair thereafter.

“We advise road users to plan their trips accordingly during this essential sinkhole rehabilitation, adhere to the traffic accommodation signage and the flag persons advanced warnings. 

“It is not only for your own safety but also that of the construction personnel on site. SANRAL apologises for any inconvenience caused and the roads agency remains committed to improving the safety and quality of our national roads,” SANRAL’s Gauteng Provincial Head Progress Hlahla said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle

49 views

Posted on

Gauteng Education engages scholar transport providers 

Source: Government of South Africa

Gauteng Education engages scholar transport providers 

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has acknowledged challenges currently affecting the province’s Scholar Transport Programme which has resulted in some service providers halting operations and negatively affecting learners.

The halting of operations on Monday also contributed to low attendance at some schools.

The department said it has been actively engaging scholar transport service providers to address outstanding payments and has emphasised its commitment to fulfilling payments of all outstanding invoices.

In a statement on Tuesday, the GDE appealed to service providers to ensure the continuous and uninterrupted transportation of learners under the programme while it works within available financial processes to finalise payments accordingly.

While the matter is being resolved, the department has advised schools to implement appropriate academic recovery measures to ensure that teaching and learning remains on track.

Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane emphasised that the safety of learners remains a priority. 

“Indeed, safety, access, and well-being of learners remain a priority. We will continue to engage all affected stakeholders and resolve the impasse, and we are confident that these engagements and commitments will enable operators to resume services. 

“We remain committed to collaboration and constructive engagements with our stakeholders in resolving any matters that may arise. To this end, we encourage all our stakeholders to always engage with us on issues they face within the sector,” Chiloane said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM

50 views

Posted on

Les tribunaux jouent un rôle croissant dans la lutte pour mettre fin aux mutilations génitales féminines, selon une nouvelle étude

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Les tribunaux s’imposent comme un front essentiel dans la lutte visant à mettre fin aux mutilations génitales féminines (MGF). Au cours des deux dernières décennies, la reconnaissance internationale des MGF comme une violation des droits humains s’est renforcée, parallèlement à une évolution vers des interdictions pénales. Un nouveau rapport d’Equality Now (www.EqualityNow.org) – avec un appui à la recherche juridique facilité par le service mondial pro bono de la Thomson Reuters Foundation, TrustLaw – montre comment les défenseur·e·s des droits des femmes et les survivantes des MGF recourent de plus en plus au contentieux stratégique pour renforcer l’application des lois, combler les lacunes juridiques et protéger des avancées durement acquises contre tout recul.

En route vers la justice : Difficultés rencontrées et occasions à saisir au niveau mondial lors des litiges relatifs aux mutilations génitales féminines (https://apo-opa.co/4rzdxio) présente des enseignements issus de contentieux stratégiques au Burkina Faso, aux États-Unis, en Gambie, en Inde, au Kenya et au Libériaet. Le rapport analyse également les obstacles à l’accès à la justice dans dix pays : l’Australie, le Burkina Faso, l’Égypte, les États-Unis, la France, le Kenya, le Libéria, l’Ouganda, la Sierra Leone et le Royaume-Uni..

Divya Srinivasan, d’Equality Now, explique : “En examinant le fonctionnement du droit dans la pratique, nous pouvons mieux comprendre comment l’utiliser efficacement. Notre étude montre que le contentieux stratégique est l’un des moyens les plus puissants de combattre les MGF en mettant en évidence les lacunes de protection, en établissant des précédents juridiques et en entraînant des réformes plus larges. Mais le contentieux, à lui seul, ne suffit pas. Pour rendre une justice réelle et obtenir un changement durable, il doit être soutenu par une application des lois bien mise en œuvre et suffisamment financée, ainsi que par des systèmes juridiques qui protègent les survivantes de tout préjudice.”

Les mutilations génitales féminines sont un problème mondial

Les MGF sont internationalement reconnues comme une grave violation des droits humains consistant en l’ablation partielle ou totale des organes génitaux externes féminins pour des raisons non médicales. Cette pratique est associée à des conséquences physiques et psychologiques graves, et trouve son origine dans l’inégalité de genre.

L’UNICEF estime que 230 millions de femmes et de filles (https://apo-opa.co/45HcAMs) sont touchées par les MGF dans le monde. Equality Now et ses partenaires ont rassemblé des preuves de MGF dans 94 pays (https://apo-opa.co/4qhwrZV); cependant, parmi eux, seuls 59 disposent d’une loi spécifique interdisant cette pratique, et des améliorations substantielles sont nécessaires pour garantir un meilleur accès à la justice et un soutien accru aux survivantes.

Le contentieux stratégique peut renforcer l’accès à la justice pour les survivantes des MGF

Les actions stratégiques au pénal, au civil et au constitutionnel peuvent renforcer la réponse des États face aux MGF en révélant des défaillances systémiques et en clarifiant le droit, en établissant des précédents et en stimulant des réformes juridiques et politiques dont l’impact dépasse les affaires individuelles.

Le contentieux stratégique peut permettre aux survivantes de prendre la parole et de demander réparation. Les poursuites très médiatisées sensibilisent le public au fait que les MGF constituent une forme de violence à l’égard des femmes et des filles socialement et légalement inacceptable. D’autres survivantes sont encouragées à se manifester, et des conversations essentielles s’ouvrent au sein des communautés concernées, contribuant à un changement social qui prévient de futurs préjudices.

Surtout, le contentieux stratégique peut contraindre les États à respecter leurs obligations en matière de droits humains pour protéger les femmes et les filles, notamment lorsque les protections nationales sont faibles ou que la volonté politique s’est essoufflée. Il soutient également le plaidoyer de la société civile en la dotant d’outils juridiques et de décisions judiciaires faisant autorité, qui facilitent les campagnes, le travail de prévention et la responsabilisation en matière de MGF.

Un exemple d’obligations étatiques clarifiées en droit constitutionnel et international est la décision rendue en 2025 par la Cour de justice de la Communauté économique des États de l’Afrique de l’Ouest (CEDEAO) contre la Sierra Leone, où les MGF restent très répandues. Le jugement a précisé les obligations juridiques contraignantes de la Sierra Leone, l’appelant à criminaliser les MGF, à adopter des mesures pour prévenir et interdire la pratique, à protéger les personnes à risque, à indemniser les survivantes, à enquêter sur les affaires et à poursuivre les auteur·e·s.

Défendre les protections juridiques contre les MGF face aux risques de recul

Le contentieux stratégique peut être crucial pour empêcher un recul des protections juridiques. Au Kenya, une action judiciaire coordonnée a permis de défendre la loi sur l’interdiction des mutilations génitales féminines après une contestation constitutionnelle cherchant à légitimer la pratique en la présentant comme une question de consentement, de culture et d’autonomie corporelle. La décision de la Haute Cour en 2021 a préservé l’une des lois anti-MGF les plus fortes d’Afrique et a réaffirmé que de tels arguments ne peuvent primer sur les droits des femmes et des filles.

Des arguments similaires sont désormais mis à l’épreuve en Gambie. Après que les législateur·rice·s ont rejeté, en 2024, un projet de loi visant à abroger l’interdiction des MGF, la loi fait maintenant l’objet d’une contestation devant la Cour suprême sur des bases constitutionnelles. Si la Cour statue en faveur de l’abrogation, cela créerait un précédent dangereux en faisant passer des droits religieux ou culturels avant les droits humains fondamentaux à l’égalité, à la dignité et à la liberté de vivre à l’abri de la violence. Une telle décision pourrait affaiblir les protections des femmes et des filles en Gambie et encourager des tentatives de recul des lois anti-MGF ailleurs.

Lacunes juridiques et défaillances systémiques dans les poursuites liées aux MGF

Malgré le nombre de pays dotés de lois anti-MGF, les poursuites restent rares : une application insuffisante des lois et des failles juridiques compromet la capacité de porter des affaires devant les tribunaux. Les signalements de MGF sont faibles, en partie en raison de la stigmatisation, de la peur et d’une protection insuffisante des victimes et des témoins. D’autres préoccupations incluent des enquêtes de mauvaise qualité, des preuves mal gérées et une priorité politique ou institutionnelle limitée accordée aux affaires de MGF.

Ces faiblesses sont aggravées par des retards dans les enquêtes et les procédures, ainsi que par des démarches judiciaires difficiles d’accès. Pour les rares affaires qui parviennent au tribunal, la justice est loin d’être garantie et, dans certains cas, des peines incohérentes ou clémentes ne reflètent pas la gravité des préjudices causés.

Les survivantes subissent souvent stigmatisation, intimidation, discrimination et reviviscences traumatiques pendant les procédures. Dans certains contextes, l’absence d’approches centrées sur les survivantes a contribué à ce que celles-ci soient elles-mêmes criminalisées en vertu des lois censées les protéger.

Les juges, procureur·e·s, policiers, professionnel·le·s de santé et services sociaux manquent souvent de formation adéquate sur les MGF et les cadres juridiques pertinents. Ce manque de compréhension conduit à un traitement inadéquat des dossiers et à une application incorrecte des lois.

La mauvaise exécution des décisions de justice permet aux auteur·e·s d’échapper à de véritables conséquences malgré une condamnation. Cela sape la crédibilité du système judiciaire, entretient un schéma plus large d’impunité et dissuade les survivantes d’engager une action en justice.

Une approche multisectorielle pour mettre fin aux MGF

Les gouvernements doivent renforcer et clarifier les lois afin de garantir que toutes les formes de MGF soient explicitement interdites et que la législation existante soit effectivement appliquée. Cela inclut la conduite d’enquêtes efficaces, des peines reflétant la gravité du crime et l’exécution cohérente des décisions de justice. Des investissements ciblés dans la formation professionnelle sont nécessaires pour améliorer la gestion des preuves, le suivi des dossiers et des réponses sensibles aux besoins des survivantes.

Les lois sont plus efficaces lorsqu’elles s’accompagnent d’efforts de prévention qui s’attaquent aux causes profondes des MGF. Mettre fin à cette pratique préjudiciable exige une approche multisectorielle combinant action juridique et réponses dans les domaines de la santé, de l’éducation, de la protection de l’enfance et de l’action communautaire.

Le sous-financement compromet la mise en œuvre des lois relatives aux MGF. Des investissements publics durables, des actions de sensibilisation et l’engagement des communautés sont essentiels. Les survivantes doivent avoir accès à une aide juridictionnelle gratuite et à des services de soutien. Des recours civils doivent également être garantis, permettant aux personnes de demander une indemnisation, des ordonnances de protection ou d’autres formes de réparation devant les juridictions civiles, indépendamment des procédures pénales.

Kathryn Beck, responsable juridique de TrustLaw à la Thomson Reuters Foundation, a commenté : “Le soutien juridique pro bono possède un pouvoir unique pour appuyer les missions essentielles d’organisations telles qu’Equality Now. Nous espérons que cet important rapport jettera les bases pour renforcer les lois anti-MGF et donnera les moyens d’agir aux professionnel·le·s de terrain qui travaillent à protéger les droits des femmes et des filles dans le monde entier.”

“Le soutien juridique pro bono possède un pouvoir unique pour appuyer les missions essentielles d’organisations telles qu’Equality Now. Nous espérons que cet important rapport jettera les bases pour renforcer les lois anti-MGF et donnera les moyens d’agir aux professionnel·le·s de terrain qui travaillent à protéger les droits des femmes et des filles dans le monde entier.”

Distribué par APO Group pour Equality Now.

Notes aux rédactions :
Pour les demandes médias, contactez
Tara Carey
Responsable mondiale des médias
Tcarey@equalitynow.org
+44 (0)7971556340 (WhatsApp)

Aakasha Saxena
Chargée de communication
asaxena@equalitynow.org.

À propos Equality Now​ :
Equality Now est une organisation mondiale de défense des droits humains qui se consacre à provoquer les changements juridiques et systémiques nécessaires pour mettre fin à la discrimination envers toutes les femmes et les filles, partout dans le monde. Depuis sa création en 1992, elle a joué un rôle dans la réforme de 130 lois discriminatoires dans le monde, influençant positivement la vie de centaines de millions de femmes et de filles, de leurs communautés et de leurs nations, à l’heure actuelle et pour les générations à venir.

Travaillant avec des partenaires aux niveaux national, régional et mondial, Equality Now s’appuie sur une expertise juridique approfondie et sur un large éventail de perspectives sociales, politiques et culturelles pour continuer à montrer la voie en orientant, en façonnant et en favorisant les changements nécessaires pour parvenir à une égalité des sexes durable, dans l’intérêt de toutes et tous.

Pour plus de détails, rendez-vous sur www.EqualityNow.org et sur LinkedIn (Equality Now). Pour plus d’informations sur les MGF dans le monde, veuillez consulter notre rapport 2025, Le moment est venu : Mettons fin aux mutilations génitales féminines/l’excision (MGF/E).

À propos La Fondation Thomson Reuters​ :
La Fondation Thomson Reuters est la fondation d’entreprise de Thomson Reuters, la société mondiale de services d’actualités et d’information. En tant qu’organisation caritative indépendante, enregistrée au Royaume-Uni et aux États-Unis, nous mettons à profit notre expertise dans les domaines des médias, du droit et des données pour renforcer le journalisme indépendant, permettre l’accès au droit et promouvoir les entreprises responsables. Grâce à l’actualité, au développement des médias, à l’assistance juridique gratuite et à l’intelligence des données, nous visons à bâtir des sociétés libres, équitables et informées.

TrustLaw, une initiative de la Fondation Thomson Reuters, est le plus grand réseau juridique pro bono au monde. En collaboration avec des cabinets d’avocats et des équipes juridiques d’entreprise de premier plan, nous offrons une assistance juridique gratuite ainsi que des recherches et ressources juridiques novatrices aux organisations à but non lucratif, aux médias indépendants et aux entreprises sociales dans plus de 190 pays. En diffusant la pratique des services pro bono dans le monde entier, TrustLaw souhaite renforcer la société civile et favoriser le changement. Pour plus de détails, rendez-vous sur www.Trust.org et sur LinkedIn (Thomson Reuters Foundation).

Media files

Posted on

National Minimum Wage to rise to R30.23 per hour from March 

Source: Government of South Africa

National Minimum Wage to rise to R30.23 per hour from March 

Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth has announced an increase in the statutory National Minimum Wage (NMW) for 2026, raising it from R28.79 to R30.23 for each ordinary hour worked.

“The 1st of March 2026 is the date on which this amendment shall become binding. The R1.44 upward adjustment will benefit all workers, including vulnerable farm workers and domestic workers,” the Minister said in a statement on Tuesday. 

Excluded from the NMW increase are workers employed under the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP). Due to EPWP workers being employed under a special dispensation, their adjustment will rise from R15.16 per hour to a minimum wage of R16.62 per hour. 

Workers who have concluded learnership agreements contemplated in section 17 of the Skills Development Act, 1998 (Act No. 97 of 1998), are entitled to the allowances contained in Schedule 2. The rates on learnerships will be published on the departmental website.

The National Minimum Wage is South Africa’s labour market statutory requirement. The National Minimum Wage Act came into effect in 2019. In terms of the legislation, employers are obligated to pay workers a minimum amount per hour, and the NMW is subject to an annual review.

Any violations of the Act are subject to fines enforced by the inspectorate. The wage is enforced by the Department of Employment and Labour and the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA).

“The NMW is the floor which an employer is legally obligated to remunerate employees for work done. No employee shall be paid below the National Minimum Wage. It cannot be varied by contract, collective agreement or law; and it is also an unfair labour practice for an employer to unilaterally alter hours of work or other conditions of employment in implementing the NMW,” the department said in a statement on Tuesday. 

In terms of the latest NMW adjustments, the rates in the Sectoral Determination for areas and rates, work categories for the Contract Cleaning Sector, as well as those of the Wholesale and Retail Sector, are also made available on the departmental website (www.labour.gov.za).

The NMW Act applies to all workers and their employers except members of the South African National Defence Force, the National Intelligence Agency and the South African Secret Service.

It also does not apply to a volunteer who is a person who performs work for another person and who does not receive, or is not entitled to receive, any remuneration for his or her service.

The National Minimum Wage does not include allowances such as transport, tools, food or accommodation, payments in kind (board or lodging), tips, bonuses and gifts, among others. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM

89 views

Posted on

Courts are playing a growing role in ending female genital mutilation, new research finds

Source: APO

Courts are emerging as a critical frontline in the fight to end female genital mutilation (FGM). Over the past two decades, international recognition of FGM as a human rights violation has grown, alongside a shift toward criminal bans. A new report by Equality Now (www.EqualityNow.org) – with legal research support facilitated through the Thomson Reuters Foundation’s global pro bono service, TrustLaw – reveals how women’s rights advocates and FGM survivors are increasingly using strategic litigation to strengthen implementation of laws, close legal gaps, and defend hard-won protections from rollback.

Towards Justice: Global Challenges and Opportunities in Litigating Cases of Female Genital Mutilation (https://apo-opa.co/4rzdxio), outlines lessons from strategic litigation in Burkina Faso, India, Kenya, Liberia, The Gambia, and the United States. The report also analyses barriers to justice in ten countries: Australia, Burkina Faso, Egypt, France, Kenya, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Uganda, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Equality Now’s Divya Srinivasan explains, “By examining how the law works in practice, we can better understand how to harness it effectively. Our research finds that strategic litigation is one of the most powerful ways to challenge FGM by exposing gaps in protection, setting legal precedents, and driving wider reform. But litigation alone is not enough. To deliver real justice and lasting change, it must be backed by well-implemented, sufficiently funded enforcement of laws alongside legal systems that shield survivors from harm.”

Female genital mutilation is a global problem

FGM is internationally recognised as a serious human rights violation involving the partial or complete removal of external female genitalia for non-medical reasons. The practice is associated with severe physical and psychological problems, and stems from gender inequality.

UNICEF estimates that 230 million women and girls (https://apo-opa.co/4asXCw6) are impacted by FGM globally. Equality Now and its partners have collated evidence of FGM in 94 countries (https://apo-opa.co/4qhwrZV), but of these, only 59 have a specific law prohibiting the practice, and considerable improvement is needed to ensure better access to justice and support for survivors.

Strategic litigation can strengthen access to justice for FGM survivors

Strategic criminal, civil, and constitutional litigation can strengthen state responses to FGM by exposing systemic failures and clarifying the law, setting legal precedents, and driving legal and policy reforms that have an impact beyond individual cases.

Strategic litigation can empower survivors to speak out and seek remedies. High-profile prosecutions raise public awareness that FGM is a socially and legally unacceptable form of violence against women and girls. Other survivors are encouraged to come forward, and critical conversations are sparked within affected communities, helping drive social change that prevents future harm.

Crucially, strategic litigation can compel States to uphold their human rights obligations to protect women and girls, particularly where national protections are weak or political will has faltered. It also assists civil society advocacy efforts by equipping them with legal instruments and authoritative court rulings that facilitate campaigning, prevention work, and accountability for FGM.

An illustration of a country’s obligations being clarified under constitutional and international law is the 2025 ruling by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Court against Sierra Leone, where FGM remains widespread. The judgment specified Sierra Leone’s binding legal duties, calling on the country to criminalise FGM, adopt measures to prevent and prohibit the practice, protect those at risk, compensate survivors, investigate cases, and prosecute perpetrators.

Defending FGM legal protections against rollback

Strategic litigation can be critical in preventing rollback of legal protections. In Kenya, coordinated legal action successfully defended the Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation Act after a constitutional challenge sought to legitimise the practice by framing it as a matter of consent, culture, and bodily autonomy. The High Court’s 2021 ruling preserved one of the strongest anti-FGM laws in Africa and reaffirmed that such arguments cannot override the rights of women and girls.

Similar arguments are now being tested in The Gambia. After lawmakers rejected a bill in 2024 seeking to repeal the ban on FGM, the law is now being challenged before the Supreme Court on constitutional grounds. If the Court rules in favour of repeal, it would set a dangerous precedent by prioritising religious or cultural rights above the fundamental human rights to equality, dignity, and freedom from violence. Such a decision could weaken protections for women and girls in The Gambia and embolden efforts to roll back anti-FGM laws elsewhere.

Legal gaps and systemic failures in prosecuting FGM

Despite the number of countries with anti-FGM laws, prosecution for FGM remains rare, with weak enforcement of laws and legal loopholes undermining the ability to bring cases to court. Reporting of FGM is low, partly due to stigma, fear, and weak victim and witness protection. Other concerns include poor investigations, mishandled evidence, and limited political or institutional prioritisation of FGM cases.

These shortcomings are compounded by delays in investigations and court proceedings, alongside inaccessible court processes. For the few cases that do make it to court, justice is far from guaranteed, and in some instances, inconsistent or lenient sentencing fails to reflect the seriousness of the harm caused.

Survivors often experience stigma, intimidation, discrimination, and re-traumatisation during court proceedings. In some contexts, a lack of survivor-centred approaches has contributed to survivors themselves being criminalised under the very laws meant to protect them.

Judges, prosecutors, police, healthcare professionals, and social services often lack adequate training on FGM and relevant legal frameworks. This lack of understanding contributes to cases being poorly handled and laws being incorrectly applied.

Poor enforcement of court decisions allows perpetrators to avoid meaningful consequences despite conviction. This undermines the credibility of the justice system, contributes to a broader pattern of impunity, and discourages survivors from pursuing legal action.

A multi-sectoral approach to ending FGM

Governments must strengthen and clarify laws to ensure that all forms of FGM are explicitly prohibited and existing legislation is well enforced. This includes pursuing investigations effectively, ensuring sentencing reflects the gravity of the crime, and enforcing court rulings consistently. Targeted investment in professional training is needed to improve evidence handling, case management, and survivor-sensitive responses.

Laws work best when paired with prevention efforts that address the root causes of FGM. Ending this harmful practice requires a multi-sectoral approach that combines legal action with health, education, child protection, and community-based responses.

Underfunding undermines efforts to implement FGM laws. Sustained public investment, awareness-raising, and community engagement are essential. Survivors need access to free legal aid and support services. Civil remedies must also be guaranteed, allowing individuals to seek compensation, protection orders, or other forms of redress through the civil courts, independent of criminal proceedings.

Kathryn Beck, Head of Legal for TrustLaw at the Thomson Reuters Foundation, commented, “Legal pro bono has a unique power to support the critical missions of organisations such as Equality Now. We hope that this important report lays the groundwork to strengthen anti-FGM laws and empowers frontline professionals working to protect the rights of women and girls around the world.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Equality Now.

Notes to editors:
For media enquired contact
Tara Carey
Global Head of Media
Tcarey@equalitynow.org
+44 (0)7971556340 (WhatsApp)

Aakasha Saxena
Communications Officer
asaxena@equalitynow.org

About Equality Now​:
Equality Now is a worldwide human rights organisation dedicated to securing the legal and systemic change needed to end discrimination against all women and girls. Since its inception in 1992, it has played a role in reforming 120 discriminatory laws globally, positively impacting the lives of hundreds of millions of women and girls, their communities and nations, both now and for generations to come.

Working with partners at national, regional and global levels, Equality Now draws on deep legal expertise and a diverse range of social, political and cultural perspectives to continue to lead the way in steering, shaping and driving the change needed to achieve enduring gender equality, to the benefit of all. For more details, go to www.EqualityNow.org and LinkedIn Equality Now. For more information about FGM around the world, please see our 2025 report, The Time Is Now: End Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting, An Urgent Need for a Global Response – Five Year Update (https://apo-opa.co/3ZcTlqn).

About The Thomson Reuters Foundation​:
The Thomson Reuters Foundation is the corporate foundation of Thomson Reuters, using its expertise in media, law, and data to advance free, fair, and informed societies. Through journalism, legal support, and research, the Foundation works to uphold human rights, foster transparency, and promote inclusive economies.

Its global pro bono service, TrustLaw, is the world’s largest network of legal professionals providing free legal assistance to NGOs, social enterprises, and independent media in over 190 countries. By facilitating access to legal support and producing pioneering legal research, TrustLaw helps strengthen civil society and drive systemic, lasting change. For details, go to www.Trust.org, LinkedIn Thomson Reuters Foundation.

Media files

.

Posted on

Advisor to Prime Minister, Official Spokesperson of Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Qatar Continues Diplomatic Efforts to Reduce Tensions in the Region

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, February 03, 2026

Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari affirmed that the State of Qatar continues its diplomatic efforts at the highest levels to reduce tensions in the region and to promote a return to the negotiating table, considering it the only path to achieving regional security and stability.

Dr. Al Ansari stated during the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’weekly press briefing Tuesday that communications are ongoing and continuous between HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, and HE President of the Islamic Republic of Iran Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, alongside the visit made by HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, to the Iranian capital, Tehran, as part of efforts aimed at ensuring de-escalation and maintaining stability in the region.

He added that these efforts are not limited to Qatar alone, but involve multiple regional parties, amid extensive regional communications witnessed in recent days, aimed at reducing tension and preventing a return to escalation, emphasizing that these communications continue intensively during the current hours and days, despite the inability to discuss details of future meetings at this time.

Regarding the Rafah crossing, the Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained that Qatar issued a statement considering the recent step positive, yet insufficient, noting that the permanent goal has been the full opening of the crossing, ensuring the entry of humanitarian aid, the normal movement of citizens, and enabling international parties to carry out their humanitarian role.

He reaffirmed Qatar’s rejection of using the Rafah crossing in any negotiations or political process, stressing that obstructing the evacuation of more than twenty thousand medical cases in urgent need of treatment constitutes a complete crime against humanity.

Dr. Al Ansari pointed out that Qatar works closely with all concerned parties, whether the European Union mission or its mediation partners, the Arab Republic of Egypt and the United States of America, alongside other regional and international parties, to continue pressure toward the full opening of the Rafah crossing.

In the context of mediation efforts, Dr. Al Ansari indicated during the briefing that current movements focus on the second phase of the Gaza agreement, with a warning about the dangers of continued humanitarian deterioration in the Gaza Strip.

He noted that measures taken so far have not addressed the crisis in Gaza, particularly regarding the entry of equipment needed to remove rubble, construct temporary housing units, as well as medical evacuations, citizen movement, and the entry of food and medicine. 

On the Iranian file, the Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the issue as “extremely complex,” noting that past years witnessed numerous attempts to reach a consensus formula that would lay the foundation for a more secure and stable region.

He said the existing challenges cannot be reduced to a single issue; what is required now is a comprehensive return to a new negotiation track where all files are placed on the table.

He added that Qatar’s current focus is on moving the region from a state of tension, mutual statements, and escalation to a new negotiation phase involving all regional partners, affirming the continuation of joint efforts without excluding any country, reflecting a collective international will to de-escalate the region.

He pointed out that Qatar has believed from the outset that all disputes should be resolved through dialogue and negotiations, warning that delays in this regard lead to increased risks and tensions, negatively affecting the peoples of the region.

Dr. Al Ansari reiterated that sitting at the negotiating table is the only solution to avoid conflicts, noting that all international efforts are directed toward this goal.

He emphasized the importance of regional relations, noting that Qatar and Iran share geography, history, and common interests in the Arabian Gulf and energy fields, which necessitates adopting dialogue as the sole path forward toward peace and de-escalation.

The Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that Qatar has taken all necessary precautions regarding the current regional escalation and is closely monitoring ongoing developments, pointing out that Qatar continuously works with its partners, with a primary focus on diplomatic solutions at this stage.

Dr. Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari also highlighted the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ key activities over the week, noting that HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani met last Saturday in Tehran with HE Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council of the Islamic Republic of Iran Ali Larijani, where the two sides discussed ongoing efforts to reduce regional tensions.

He added that HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs also reaffirmed Qatar’s support for all initiatives aimed at de-escalation and peaceful solutions to enhance security and stability in the region.
He noted that His Excellency received last Thursday HE Minister of African Integration and Foreign Affairs of Senegal Cheikh Niang, where they discussed regional developments and ways to strengthen efforts to consolidate security and stability in Africa.

He also mentioned that HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs received, Monday, HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Benin Olushegun Adjadi Bakari.

Dr. Al Ansari pointed out that HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs conducted several phone calls in recent days with HE Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration, and Egyptian Expatriates Affairs of the sisterly Arab Republic of Egypt Dr. Badr Abdelatty, and with HE Prime Minister of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria Sifi Ghrieb.
He added that HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs held a phone call last Sunday with HE Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al Ahmad Al Sabah, during which His Excellency extended congratulations on his appointment as Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Kuwait.

He noted that HE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi chaired last Saturday Qatar’s delegation during the ministerial session of the 2nd Arab-India Cooperation Forum held in New Delhi, India, noting that His Excellency participated in a meeting with HE Prime Minister of the Republic of India Narendra Modi, which included all ministers attending the session. 

Dr. Al Ansari noted that HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad met on Thursday with HE Secretary-General of the International Civil Defense Organization Arguj Kalantarli and HE Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Afghanistan and Resident Coordinator for Humanitarian Affairs Nderika Ratwathe. Her Excellency also met on Monday with HE Executive Director of the International Center for Transitional Justice (ICTJ) Fernando Travesi.

He noted that HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairsآ Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi visited the Republic of Lebanon on Monday, pointing out that during his meeting with HE President of the Republic of Lebanon General Joseph Aoun, His Excellency delivered a written message from HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, pertaining to issues of common interest between the two countries and strengthening relations between them.
He noted that HE the Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs met during his visit to the Republic of Lebanon with HE Prime Minister Dr. Nawaf Salam, Army Commander General Rodolphe Haykal, and HE Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri.

Dr. Al Ansari pointed out that HE the Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had confirmed during a joint press conference with HE Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Lebanon Dr. Tarek Mitri that this visit comes as a confirmation of the State of Qatar’s firm and unwavering stance in standing by Lebanon and its fraternal people, especially in light of the delicate circumstances and current challenges facing the region.

He indicated that His Excellency announced during the press conference that the State of Qatar is providing development and humanitarian support to the Republic of Lebanon, with a total value of USD 434,248,000, benefiting more than 1.5 million people, through the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD). This package includes a contribution of up to USD 400 million to support the energy sector, and extends to include support for a number of vital sectors, especially the education sector by providing a number of scholarships, and supporting the capabilities of the Lebanese army by providing military vehicles and equipment, in addition to supporting the sports sector.

In the same context, the Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs pointed out that, under the directives of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, the Lebanese Army received last Thursday 37 vehicles provided by the State of Qatar, through the QFFD, representing the first batch of a total grant of 162 vehicles allocated to support the Lebanese military establishment.

He noted that HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairsآ Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi delivered a written message from HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to HE President of the Republic of Korea Lee Jae Myung, during his visit to the Republic of Korea on Wednesday. His Excellency also met during the visit with HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea Cho Hyun and HE National Security Adviser of the Republic of Korea, Wi Sung-lac.

He noted that HE the Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs met on Friday with HE Secretary General of the National Security Council (NSC) of the Kingdom of Thailand Chatcai Bangchuad, while His Excellency met on Monday, with HE Minister ofآ Foreign Affairsآ of the Republic ofآ Beninآ Olushegun Adjadi Bakari.

Dr. Al Ansari indicated that a round of political consultations was held on Tuesday between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar and Hungary, where the Qatari side was headed by HE Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Ahmed bin Hassan Al Hammadi, while the Hungarian side was headed by HE Deputy State Secretary for Security Policy and Political Director at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary Henrietta Balajthy.

He noted that the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo and theآ Alliance Fleuve Congo / March 23 Movement (AFC/M23) signed on Monday the terms of reference stemming from the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region. This occurred during the meeting of the Ceasefire Oversight and Verification Mechanism between the two parties, hosted by Doha, as part of its efforts to resolve the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The two parties renewed their commitment to the ceasefire and the Doha Framework Agreement for Peace signed between them in November. 

Posted on

Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Receives Phone Call from Italian Deputy PM and Foreign Minister

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, February 03, 2026

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani received Tuesday a phone call from HE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Italian Republic Antonio Tajani.

During the call, they discussed the cooperation relations between the two countries and ways to support and strengthen them, the latest developments in the region, in addition to a number of topics of mutual interest.

The two sides also stressed the importance of intensifying regional and international efforts to reduce escalation and tension in the region through dialogue and peaceful means to consolidate regional security.

Posted on

Qatar, Hungary Hold Round of Political Consultations

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, February 03, 2026

A round of political consultations was held in Doha today between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar and Hungary.

The Qatari side was headed by HE Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Ahmed bin Hassan Al Hammadi, while the Hungarian side was headed by HE Deputy State Secretary for Security Policy and Political Director at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary, Henrietta Balajthy.

During the consultations, bilateral relations and ways to support and strengthen them were discussed.