SADC TO DISCUSS HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATION

 Delegates from countries in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) are to discuss progress made in efforts to fight violence against women in the Region.

A statement by the Global News Agency, Interpress Service (IPS) and a non-governmental group, Gender Links notes that, they have organised a seminar to take place from the 11^th to the 15^th of December 2000.

The gathering will be held in Maseru, with reports expected from each of the 14 SADC members.  The meeting will be in respect of part of the Members’ commitment to the SADC declaration on Gender and Development.

The two groups say violence against females remains one of the human rights abuses that remain poorly reported.  On the same token, the groups note that the media have a vital role to play to expose the hidden public scourge.

The statement further indicates that, IPS and Gender Links in close alliance with the SADC Gender Unit will be running a training workshop for media workers covering such issues.  Furthermore, the practical course will include producing daily news stories on the Conference and a final supplement that will be available at its end.

The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) has also agreed to help in the distribution of information and alerts to the media on Human Rights violations in the Region.

SABA