Also funded by Oxfam Novib, SIHA has initiated a research paper that will document the experiences of Somali­ women activists who are advocating for their rights in conflict situations

It is aimed at highlighting the dilemma of Somali women and the mechanisms they are using in  maintaining their existence and their work with women and communities and all the risks

surrounding them.

Submission of the final versions of the research paper is expected at the end of December 2010.

This research paper explores the work and experiences of Somali women activists and defenders and their ongoing work to defend  the rights of Somali women living in an extremely complex situation.

Somali women have always been recognized by international, regional and local actors as major actors in peace building and conflict resolution and as actors on civil society platforms within the long lasting Somali conflict. However, their role as defenders of women’s rights is under constant attack and often not recognized.

This research paper documents and looks analytically at the Somali women activists’ experiences in several Somali women organizations, particularly COGWO (Coalition for Grassroots Organizations).

In addition, the paper specifically looks at women and organizations emphasizing the work on women’s rights and will produce a report on Somali women activists, their work environment, constraints and risks, their tactics and work strategies and the most effective strategies that have been employed by Somali women as well as their failures.

All this will be looked at according to the following factors;

·         The risks that women have experienced/are experiencing.

·         Women activists’ ability to undertake tasks in relation to aspects of women’s rights and protection within the Somali context

·         The local environment where women activists are operating – looking at allies and opponents.

·         The regional and international environment and what roles are being played either in favour or against women activists.