International Human Rights in Land As a Tool to Empower Women in Post-Conflict Countries

Abstract: The nature of warfare is changing in ways that increasingly endanger women and girls. Besides suffering from the general brutality inflicted by violent conflict, women also suffer particular attacks whose form is defined by distinct notions of female sexuality. However, the ironic fact must be recognized that the upheaval of a conflict can break down social barriers and traditional patriarchal patterns, providing opportunities to implement international legislation against gender discrimination. Land is more than often identified as the basis of wealth, social status and power. It is the primary source for shelter, food and economic activities. Right to housing cannot be fulfilled if there is no access to land. Consequently, equal rights to access land are fundamentally important to the potential of building balanced gender relations in post-conflict societies and to integrate women to their new reality.