Women's rights in Muslim laws is a topic that has become more and more sensitive with the passing of Sharia Acts in several states in Nigeria. This began with Zamfara State in November 1999, but presently also includes Niger, Sokoto, and Kano.
A Nigerian woman and co-ordinator of BAOBAB for Women's Human Rights, Ayesha Imam has been selected as this year's John Humphrey Freedom Award recipient for her work in support of women's rights whether under Muslim, secular, or customary laws.
Despite the increasing importance that early warning systems are playing in identifying areas at risk of violent conflict and appropriate response options, gender still remains largely absent in conflict prevention and early warning programmes.
Former Jordanian parliamentarian Toujan al-Faisal was given amnesty by King Abdullah II, on 28 June 2002, after she was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment on charges of undermining the state's sovereignty.
Since the 60th ratification on 11 April 2002, the Rome Statute enters into force on 1 July 2002 at which time the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court over crimes of genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity will take effect.
After Ahmedabad, Vadodara (also known as Baroda) experienced the most widespread and sustained violence following the Godhra massacre on 27th February 2002.
The People's Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) and Vadodara Shanti Abhiyan (VSA) report severely indicts the state government, the city police and local politicians for instigating and committing violence.
