WEP Organizes Environmental Justice and Human Rights Bootcamp for Feminists Organizations and Environmental Activists in Nigeria

The Environmental Justice and Human Rights Bootcamp, an activity under the WomenPower2030 Project, held from 10th to 11th December 2024, at Albert Ballin Hall, Hapag Lloyd House, No5B, Constitution Avenue, Abuja, Nigeria. It brought together participants from around the country. These participants included youth activists, civil society representatives, and government stakeholders, to address the complex interplay between environmental challenges and human rights. 

The aim of this bootcamp was to build the capacities of feminist organizations and other stakeholders on different aspects of environmental and human rights issues that are hindering sustainable development and the attainment of gender equality. The bootcamp explored critical themes such as gender equality, climate change, advocacy techniques, and environmental governance.  

 

The beginning 

The event began with participants arriving as early as 8:30 AM, greeted by our staff who facilitated smooth registration and distributed program materials. The hall quickly filled with an eager and diverse group of attendees representing multiple sectors. 

Women Environmental Programme’s  Executive Director, Anne-Marie Abaagu, delivered the welcome address that framed the two-day event: “Environmental justice and human rights are not abstract concepts. They are about the right to breathe clean air, access clean water, and live in dignity without fear of displacement or marginalization.” She emphasized the urgency of addressing these issues through advocacy and community action. Participants applauded her passionate call to action, which set a collaborative tone for the event. 

Gender equality, environmental justice and human rights 

Then came the first session that introduced the concept of environmental justice and human rights.  Led by Mariann Bassey, she explored the historical origins and current relevance of environmental justice. Using examples from both local and global contexts, Mariann outlined how marginalized communities, particularly in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, have faced disproportionate environmental harms. “When pipelines spill oil into rivers, it is not just an environmental issue, it is a human rights crisis. Communities lose their livelihoods, their health, etc.” 

Participants engaged actively, with one attendee asking, “How can communities like mine document environmental injustices to demand accountability?” Mariann recommended leveraging technology, such as mobile apps and community-based monitoring, to collect evidence and share stories with broader audiences. 

Hauwa Mustapha then stepped in to let participants see the relationship between gender equality and environmental justice. She emphasized the role of women as both victims and agents of change in environmental governance. She highlighted the ways in which climate change disproportionately affects women, particularly in rural areas where they are primary caregivers and resource managers. “Women’s knowledge and leadership are key to sustainable development. They are the custodians of our future,” she stressed. 

Hauwa shared success stories of women-led initiatives, such as reforestation projects and community water management systems. Participants discussed barriers to women’s involvement in decision-making, with one participant sharing: “In my community, women are excluded from leadership roles despite bearing the brunt of environmental challenges.” Hauwa encouraged forming women-led advocacy groups to amplify their voices. 

Building on the previous session, Hauwa delved deeper into the gendered impacts of climate change. She used real-world examples to demonstrate how extreme weather events such as droughts and floods intensify existing gender inequalities. According to her, “Climate change is not gender-neutral, it worsens disparities, especially for women who are already marginalized.” Hauwa emphasized the importance of gender-sensitive climate policies that address these vulnerabilities. 

Tools and techniques for advocacy 

Lauritta Boniface introduced participants to tools like policy briefs, petitions, media outreach and the PLAN game etc, which participants can use to advocate for a sustainable environment that upholds human rights. She said, “Advocacy requires persistence and preparation. Know your audience, anticipate objections, and present solutions.” 

Participants discussed challenges in engaging policymakers, with one asking, “How do we get attention from high-ranking officials?” Lauritta suggested starting with local leaders and building momentum through grassroots movements. 

Environmental governance and policy 

Mariann made a presentation on another important tool for advocacy: Environmental Governance and Policy Frameworks. She did an exploration of governance frameworks, including international agreements like the Paris Accord and national policies. She discussed the role of civil society organizations in holding governments accountable and driving policy changes. “Policy frameworks are tools.They are only effective if we use them to demand justice.” Participants brainstormed ways to localize these frameworks, with ideas ranging from community workshops to media campaigns. 

 

The workshop was successful 

The bootcamp achieved its objectives of equipping participants with practical tools and fostering a deeper understanding of environmental justice and human rights. 

 

Key outcomes included: 

• Increased awareness of environmental justice issues and their link to human rights. 

• Enhanced advocacy skills, with participants developing actionable campaigns. 

• Strengthened networks for collaboration among participants and facilitators. 

The Environmental Justice and Human Rights Bootcamp was a resounding success, empowering individuals and fostering a shared commitment to sustainable development. WEP looks forward to building on this momentum in 2025 by expanding outreach and deepening partnerships.