In 1974, the Association of Senegalese Women Jurists was founded in Senegal.
Founded and staffed by female judges, lawyers, and notaries, this association aims to protect human rights, particularly those of women and children—who are most affected by inequalities. The organization's main missions include advocacy, awareness-raising, training, and communication about human rights among the public.
Since 2008, one of its most notable initiatives has been the creation of the “Boutiques de Droit” (Law Boutiques). Present throughout almost the entire country—in the regions of Dakar, Thiès, Kaolack, Kolda, Kebemer, Sédhiou, Ziguinchor, and Kédougou—these centers offer legal advice and guidance sessions to vulnerable individuals facing legal issues. The “Boutiques de Droit” thus provide safe spaces for listening and support, guaranteeing the confidentiality of all interactions.
The topics covered encompass the difficulties women face, such as Family Law and physical and sexual violence, as well as real estate, land ownership, administrative, civil, commercial, tax, and digital issues. Furthermore, in addition to these facilities, the AJS has operated a free hotline since 2010. This allows the support service to be accessible to everyone, regardless of their location.
When people use these services, a consultation record is created, and the actions taken vary depending on the case: they may include drafting complaints and requests, assigning lawyers free of charge, or referring them to other professionals, such as psychologists or doctors. Victims of violence may be referred to specialized services. In such cases, the Legal Aid Agency (AJS) provides them with free support.
However, despite efforts to facilitate access and the relevance of the initiatives implemented, cultural and economic realities continue to pose significant obstacles to the fluidity and effectiveness of assistance. Indeed, the culture of not reporting, the stigmatization of victims—especially victims of sexual violence—the slowness of administrative processes, the existence of discriminatory laws, and a lack of funding can sometimes compromise the quality and impact of the services provided.
Today, after more than 50 years of existence, the AJS and its "Boutiques de Droit" constitute a reference in the protection of human rights, especially for women.