Woman laws at Djibouti
Women's rights in Djibouti have seen some progress, but significant challenges persist, particularly concerning gender-based violence, access to education, and economic participation.
Legal Framework and Gender Equality
Djibouti's legal system includes provisions aimed at promoting gender equality. The National Gender Policy (2011–2021) acknowledges that women are more affected by poverty and unemployment than men, often working in the informal sector. Despite a legal quota ensuring that women hold at least 25% of the seats in the National Assembly, they remain underrepresented in leadership positions. Over 60% of women are illiterate, and they face barriers to employment and appropriate healthcare.. In 2015, UNESCO reported that Djibouti was working to tackle gender equality in media. The Djibouti Journalists' Association held a Gender and Media Workshop to discuss the extent to which fair portrayal of women and gender equality is reflected in their media.
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)
Despite being outlawed in 1995 under Article 333 of the Penal Code, which mandates a five-year prison term and a fine for those found guilty, FGM remains prevalent. Estimates suggest that between 93% and 98% of women in Djibouti undergo the procedure. The practice is often carried out in traditional settings without sterile conditions or anesthesia. Although the government has recognized FGM as a criminal act, enforcement remains a significant challenge.
Support and Advocacy
The Union Nationale des Femmes Djiboutiennes (UNFD), chaired by the First Lady, is the oldest non-governmental organization in the country. It campaigns for the protection of women's rights by providing legal assistance, lobbying, and advocacy activities. The UNFD offers services such as training on legal rights, support for victims of gender-based violence, and operates a toll-free number for victims. It collaborates with public security services, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Justice to provide comprehensive support.
International Collaboration
In 2019, Djibouti and Rwanda signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen their partnership in areas such as gender equality, family promotion, women's empowerment, and child rights protection. This collaboration aims to enhance the implementation of gender-sensitive policies and share best practices between the two nations.
Ongoing Challenges
Despite these efforts, women in Djibouti continue to face significant challenges:
Education: High illiteracy rates among women, particularly in rural areas, hinder their access to opportunities.
Economic Participation: Women are often confined to the informal sector and have limited access to economic resources.
Healthcare: Limited access to quality healthcare services affects women's health outcomes.
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