Historical Context and Formation

Established in the mid-1980s, MADRE emerged at a time when major human rights organizations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch failed to recognize sexual assault as a violation of human rights. In contrast, MADRE championed the need to classify rape as a weapon of war, correcting significant oversights within the human rights discourse.

The organization was inspired by the plight of Nicaraguan women, particularly after the experiences of Mirna Cunningham, a medical doctor who sought legal recourse against her assailants. Motivated by her story, a group of American women visited Nicaragua, leading to the creation of MADRE, which derives its name from the Spanish word for ‘mother’ in homage to the countless mothers affected by violence and oppression.

Mission and Scope of Work

MADRE operates on multiple fronts, engaging in political advocacy while also delivering direct aid to organizations across over 40 countries, including regions facing war, environmental crises, and political instability. The organization empowers local activists through:

• Financial support for grassroots initiatives.
• Skills training and leadership development.
• Strategic planning directed toward women and girls’ rights.

With a vision that encompasses gender violence elimination, reproductive rights, climate justice, and social equity, MADRE aims not merely at immediate relief but at fostering sustainable societal transformation.

Leadership Insights

In an interview, Yifat Susskind, the executive director of MADRE, elaborated on the organization’s evolution and current challenges. She noted that the focus has always been on the most marginalized communities, including young women and girls, Indigenous populations, and LGBTQ+ individuals. This commitment underscores MADRE’s distinction as a platform for genuine human rights advocacy, rather than mere humanitarian aid.

“We’re also clear that we’re not a humanitarian aid organization but are instead working to build a world where human rights are a reality for everyone,” Susskind stated.

Challenges and Adaptations

Despite significant progress, MADRE continues to face challenges, particularly in light of U.S. policies affecting foreign aid and local organizations. For example, funding cutbacks have forced many grassroots groups to shift focus from advocacy to immediate survival needs, exacerbating existing struggles within their communities.

“The impact is always worse in places where people have been made poor,” Susskind explained, highlighting the urgent need for effective support systems.

Future Aspirations

Moving forward, MADRE is committed to reinforcing the rights of women and marginalized groups globally, particularly in response to rising authoritarianism. Current initiatives focus on safeguarding activists facing increased repression and maintaining pressure for systemic changes that honor human rights.

“Right-wing governments and movements may be lowering the bar on human rights, but we can’t allow them to lower our own sense of possibility,” Susskind emphasized.

MADRE’s strategic direction includes advocating for the Rights of Nature, acknowledging that the well-being of the planet is intrinsically linked to the health of human communities.