In Mauritania, groups that work to support and advocate for citizens—known as civil society organizations—are urging the government to take action against rising violence against women and girls. These groups are particularly focused on the Karama law, a piece of legislation designed to improve the protection of individuals who have experienced sexual violence. While the government has officially approved the law, it has remained stalled in the Parliament for several years, preventing it from becoming active legislation. The Karama law aims to provide legal support, protection, and justice for victims of sexual violence, which is a serious issue in many parts of the world. In Mauritania, activists argue that the delay in passing this law has left vulnerable individuals without the necessary legal tools to seek justice or protection. The law could potentially introduce measures such as stricter penalties for perpetrators, better support systems for survivors, and improved access to legal resources. On Thursday, September 24, these civil society organizations submitted a memorandum to the authorities, outlining their demands for a clear timeline for the law's adoption. The memorandum emphasizes the urgency of the situation and calls on the government to prioritize the law's passage to address the growing concerns of violence against women and girls. The groups are pushing for transparency and accountability from the government in this process. The pressure from these organizations reflects a broader movement in Mauritania to address gender-based violence and promote women's rights. While the government has shown support for the Karama law in principle, the delay in its implementation has raised concerns about the commitment to protecting victims of sexual violence. As the situation continues to unfold, the role of civil society in advocating for legal reforms remains crucial in shaping the country's response to this pressing issue.