Participants of a round table comprised of young women and faith actors have this week called on the Judiciary of South Sudan to initiate a conference for the review of some aspects of the customary laws they say conflict with principles of human rights

“The participants unanimously call upon the Judiciary of South Sudan especially the directorate of customary law to initiate a conference for the review of Customary laws that conflict with principles that All persons are created equal and deserve Equity in all aspects of life,”  the statement dated 8 September, 2023  by the Young Women Christian Association and the Agency for Peace and Development focused partially read.

The event was organized to pinpoint cultural norm practices that are impeding young women in inclusive leadership.

According to them, cultural norms hinder young women in leadership from participating in public and private spaces.

The young women say it is the responsibility of South Sudan as a signatory to the international convention on Women’s Rights to enact laws that promote equity and inclusion in empowering young women.

” The participants unanimously call upon all the Government and community leaders to recognize the existence of Negative Cultural norm practices that continue to hinder the participation of young women in inclusive leadership and join us in addressing these issues,” it added.

They also argue that the negative cultural practices “continue to hinder efforts to eliminate all forms of gender-based violence and systematic cultural stereotypes.”

The women also called to action all different stakeholders that share the responsibility to address issues pertinent to high bride price as the major contributing factor to early and forced marriage.