Woman laws at Gambia
Gambia has made significant strides in advancing women's rights through legal reforms, though challenges remain in implementation and cultural practices.
⚖️ Legal Reforms and Women's Rights
1. Women's Act (2010)
The Women's Act of 2010 was a landmark legislation aimed at promoting gender equality and protecting women's rights in Gambia. It addressed various issues, including:
Equal Rights: Affirmed women's rights to own property, access education, and participate in public life.
Protection Against Violence: Provided legal recourse for women facing domestic violence and other forms of abuse.
Reproductive Rights: Ensured women's rights to make decisions about their reproductive health.
This Act was a significant step towards aligning Gambia's legal framework with international human rights standards.
2. Criminal Code Amendment (2015)
In 2015, Gambia amended its Criminal Code to include provisions criminalizing female genital mutilation (FGM). The law made FGM punishable by up to three years in prison, reflecting the country's commitment to ending this harmful practice.
⚠️ Challenges and Controversies
1. Proposed Repeal of FGM Ban (2024)
In 2024, a controversial bill was introduced in Gambia's National Assembly seeking to repeal the 2015 ban on FGM. The bill argued that the ban infringed upon cultural and religious practices. However, after intense public debate and advocacy from women's rights groups, the bill was rejected by lawmakers in July 2024. This decision was hailed as a victory for women's rights and a reaffirmation of Gambia's commitment to protecting women and girls from FGM.
2. High Prevalence of FGM
Despite the legal ban, FGM remains prevalent in Gambia. According to UNICEF, approximately 76% of women and girls aged 15 to 49 have undergone FGM. This high prevalence underscores the need for continued education, community engagement, and enforcement of the law to eradicate the practice
🧭 Institutional Support and Advocacy
Organizations such as Safe Hands for Girls, led by FGM survivor Jaha Dukureh, have been instrumental in advocating for women's rights and the elimination of FGM in Gambia These organizations work to raise awareness, provide support to survivors, and engage communities in dialogue to change harmful cultural practices
📈 Progress and Outlook
While legal reforms have laid a foundation for gender equality in Gambia, the challenge lies in changing societal attitudes and ensuring the effective implementation of these law. Continued advocacy, education, and communit engagement are essential to achieving lasting change and protecting the rights of women and girls in Gambi.
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