Articles about Gender Links Opinion And Commentary Service
Africa: Transformative leaders must recognise LGBTI rights
25 January 12
Regional relevance: Africa
The acceptance of lesbian, bisexual, gay, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) people in Africa is a battle that is yet to be won. Sexual orientation and gender identity are integral aspects of an evolving society. In conservative societies where LGBTI’s face discrimination, political and traditional leaders mustlead... [read more]
The curtain comes down on COP 17, we bow out!
09 December 11 | (1) Comment
Regional relevance: International
As the curtain comes down on COP 17 today, 9 December 2011, the various players who came to deliberate on how best to assist in climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts will be heading back home to the four corners of the world. Faith based organisations, mineworkers, rural women, economic justice activists,... [read more]
Open, accountable dialogue needed for climate solutions
09 December 11
Regional relevance: International
Global warming is indeed a global problem that requires global solutions. However, there are concerns about the attitude of some countries responsible for causing the problems. Developed countries make significant contributions to global greenhouse gas emissions (20 countries accounted for 72% of emissions between... [read more]
Finding gender in the COP 17 negotiations
07 December 11
Regional relevance: International
“Women instinctively know what the effects of climate change are,” said the South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation and incumbent COP 17 President, Maite Nkoane Mashabane. Mashabane was speaking at the opening of a high-level meeting on Women Leaders’ Commitments on Gender and Climate... [read more]
One village tells Africa's climate story
07 December 11
Regional relevance: Africa
As part of a team implementing a project on climate change adaption in the Lake Kyoga plains in Pallisa District, Eastern Uganda, I have seen first-hand how climate change affects agro-pastoral communities. For anyone who is doubtful, or who mistakenly still thinks that climate change is something to worry about in... [read more]
Teenage fathers need support
05 December 11
Regional relevance: Regional
My son turned "free!" - his word - not mine in August this year. As I reflect on that Saturday three years ago when he came into the world at quarter past three in the afternoon, weighing in at 2,9 kilogrammes and measuring 49 centimetres long, I marvel at the challenges, joys and fears that have characterised my... [read more]
When it happens at a gender activist’s door during 16 Days
05 December 11
Regional relevance: Regional
It’s 5.30 in the morning, still blurry-eyed I sit up to feed my nine month old daughter who is busy cooing as she attempts to utter her first few words. It is the beep on my phone that fully awakens me and I curse at how information technology has revolutionised the way we live. People can even enter your bedroom. [read more]
No climate justice without gender justice
04 December 11
Regional relevance: International
Roshanthi Fernando from Sri-Lanka recalls how fishing on the shores of the island used to be easy a decade ago. She remembers how people from her area could simply go and catch fish without using sophisticated fishing methods. Sadly, this is now history.
“When we first noticed this, we thought things would go... [read more]
Climate change also affects urban women
01 December 11 | (1) Comment
Regional relevance: Regional
It has been an exciting journey to be present at the COP 17 meeting currently underway in Durban. I have attended interesting meetings, with charismatic speakers like the one who kept saying that Africa is being forced to adapt to a situation that it did not create. Yes, we did not create the conditions that brought... [read more]
Using ICT’s to communicate climate change to women
01 December 11 | (1) Comment
Regional relevance: Africa
As decision makers continue to deliberate on the future of the planet, the people most vulnerable global warming remain largely voiceless in the public domain. While mainstream media may sometimes be missing the boat when it comes to giving these voices the spotlight, new media is proving to be an important avenue... [read more]
