What is common to these and many other groups that spread terror is the specific targeting of women’s rights. It is no surprise, then, that a sudden and extreme pushback on women’s rights is often among the earliest warning signs of the spread of violent extremism. Given the multitude of roles that women play, it is critical to ensure that our efforts to prevent violent extremism include women’s voices and experiences. The voices of women and girls can be the most decisive narrative against the brutality and perverted ideology perpetuated by violent extremism. In North Africa, the United Nations is supporting national institutions to research the gender specific dimensions of violent extremism.

Source: The North Africa Journal March 01, 2019 21:00 UTC