The arrest and trial of the women once again highlights unacceptable state repression. The seven have been denied release pending hearing of their case, which resumes in September

Migration from Africa has historically been a male-dominated phenomenon, but the pattern has changed significantly in recent decades. African women are leaving their countries of birth to create new lives elsewhere. Economic opportunities are primarily available in childcare, domestic and sex work. These trends should be of special interest to those in the policy-making spaces who are concerned about the wellbeing of female migrants

Following institutionalized discrimination against homosexuals in various African countries, a debate focusing on the human security implications of this is vital. Discrimination, arrests and violence towards real or perceived homosexuals negatively affect security, health care, the economy, human development and democracy.

Angelou’s contributions to literature and social movements will remain as an inspiration to today’s youth as well as future generations.

A coalition of organisations and human rights defenders working to advance human and peoples’ rights welcomes the adoption of a Resolution on Protection Against Violence and other Human Rights Violations Against Persons on the Basis of their Real or Imputed Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity' by the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights at its 55th session held in Luanda, Angola, April 2014.