116.
In
Aminata
Diantou
Diane
v.
Republic
of Mali
(Judgment
No.
ECW/CCJ/JUD/14/18), the ECOWAS Court highlighted the importance of
States implementing effective measures to protect women’s rights and
prevent gender-based violence. The Court emphasized that the absence of
such
measures
constitutes
a violation
of the
State’s
international
obligations.
117.
The Court maintains its case law and therefore considers this claim to be
well-founded.
- AN
ORDER
compelling the Republic of Sierra Leone to provide support
services to victims of sexual violence against women,
including information,
legal services, health services and counseling.
The Court’s Analysis
118.
It is the understanding of the ECOWAS
Court that victims of sexual
violence have the right to adequate support services. In the case of Women
Against Violence and Exploitation in Society (WAVES)
Sierra Leone
(ECW/CCJ/JUD/37/19),
support services for victims
v. Republic of
the Court ruled that the lack of
constituted a violation of human
rights,
compelling the State to establish comprehensive assistance mechanisms.
119.
Itis therefore the Court’s opinion that this order sought should succeed.
XI. COSTS
120.
The Court recalls Article 66(1) ofits Rules ofits Procedure, which provides
that “A decision as to costs shall be given in the final judgment or in the
order, which closes the proceedings”.
31
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