How the toolkit can be used

This toolkit is primarily an online instrument accessible by WHRDs in Kenya through which they familiarize themselves on ways and resources available to enhance their security and efficiency in the course of their work. Many organisations have set up and continue to operate documentation systems to monitor human rights abuses. Some are training toolkits on human rights monitoring and documentation that either integrate a gender perspective, or focus specifically on concerns around women such as documenting instances of sexual violence as human rights violations by state agents. Others are modules that deal specifically with Human Rights Defenders.

This toolkit focuses on women Human Rights Defenders in Kenya’s informal settlement and names the specific violations, risks, and constraints they face in their work.

Women Human Rights Defenders can use it to learn about their rights and how to demand accountability for any abuse. It explains the practical implications of subscribing to the term ‘Human Rights Defender’, and the range of options available for their protection. It can also be used as a guide in the adoption of strategies to prevent and respond to attacks against them.

It is intended to complement existing human rights documentation systems and toolkits, human rights advocates can use this toolkit to integrate a gender perspective in human rights documentation. It provides a gender framework. It identifies the violations and abuses experienced by Human Rights Defenders WHRDs, which human rights advocates can incorporate in their existing documentation systems. In so doing, they can contribute towards the recognition and protection of Human Rights Defenders WHRDs and their rights.