Northern Nigeria: Can Universalism of Human Rights Protect Women?

Multiculturalism is often seen as an “enemy” of women's rights, as there is a tendency to argue that by legitimizing cultural practices that violate women’s rights, such violations are also justified. However, this work seeks to understand whether universalism, for its part, can protect women from a pluralistic perspective. Universal rights have often been criticized for their Western approach, whose values are difficult to incorporate into every cultural identity context. Among the various criticisms raised against both a multicultural approach, which tends to “protect” and respect different cultures through a more relativist view, and the universalist one, the aim is to understand how women's rights can be guaranteed and effectively respected in practice. With this purpose, the research investigates the current conditions in Northern Nigeria, where Islamic law is rigorously interpreted and applied, with disastrous consequences for women's lives. The Nigerian territory is culturally significant as it is divided into two regions: the southern region, predominantly Christian, and the northern region, predominantly Islamic. In this context, the incompatibility of the northern area with the central government and the constitution is evident, as the foundation of the legal system is based on divine prescriptions rather than secular principles, as stated in the constitution. Therefore, in this regard, it is interesting to explore whether a multicultural or possibly intercultural approach could help women overcome their daily abuses and human rights violations. The work and contribution of CSOs present in the area are also analyzed to understand if and how women's rights can effectively be implemented through the actions of these actors. In conclusion, based on the conducted research and the author's critical perspective, a response will be provided regarding the universal effectiveness of human rights in safeguarding women's rights in Northern Nigeria. Anna Michelotti