Pramila Patten

Overview

Pramila Patten born Mauritius June 29, 1958. International expert in women’s rights. Vice-Chair of UN Committee on Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). Served as commissioner of inquiry into Conakry massacre, 2009.

Quotations

“Securing women’s rights is a critical step to addressing the violations of the rights of women and girls during armed conflicts and post conflict settings. . . [E]ven though issues relating to women in conflict and post-conflict are receiving attention at the highest levels, much more needs to be done for this to translate into concrete action on the ground.” (Addis Ababa, June 2012; photo lexpress.mu)

Ruth Perry

Overview

Ruth Perry born Grand Cape Mount, Liberia July 16, 1939. "Mother of Liberia", Muslim, First woman president of Liberia 1996 following civil war in which she refused to take sides, using a "mother's voice."

Quotations

On warlords: "I will treat them like a mother and, if necessary, that means discipline." (Colleen Kelley & Anna Eblen, Women Who Speak for Peace, p. 171, 2002; photo sahistory.org.za)

Navi Pillay

Overview

Navanethem Pillay born Durban, South Africa September 23, 1941. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights 2008; Judge International Criminal Court 2003-8; first woman judge Rwanda War Crimes 1995-2003, President 1999.

Quotations

"From time immemorial, rape has been regarded as spoils of war. Now it will be considered a war crime. We want to send out a strong signal that rape is no longer a trophy of war." (Washington Post Magazine, Oct. 11, 1998; photo UN)