Woman laws at Madagascar
Madagascar has implemented several legal measures aimed at protecting women's rights and addressing gender-based violence. Here's an overview of the key laws and initiatives:
⚖️ Legal Protections and Reforms
Law No. 2019-008 on Combating Gender-Based Violence (GBV): Enacted in 2019, this law criminalizes various forms of GBV, including marital rape, harmful traditional practices, gender contempt, and economic violence. It establishes a national mechanism to combat GBV and provides for victim protection systems
Proposed Law on Child Rape Offenders: In 2024, Madagascar's Parliament passed a law allowing for chemical and surgical castration of individuals convicted of raping minors. The law aims to address the rising number of child rape cases, with 600 incidents recorded in 2023. However, it has faced criticism from international rights groups for being inhumane and not addressing systemic issues within the justice system
🏠 Support Systems for Victims
Listening Centres:These centers have been established to encourage female victims of domestic abuse to speak out. They provide support and legal advice, aiming to address the underreporting of abuse cases. Despite these efforts, only 5% of reported cases end up in court, with many women refraining from filing complaints due to social pressures and lack of awareness of their rights
⚠️ Ongoing Challenges
Abortion Laws: Abortion remains illegal in all circumstances in Madagascar, with severe penalties for those who receive or assist in an abortion. This restrictive law has led to unsafe abortion practices, contributing to maternal mortality
Ratification of the Maputo Protocol:Madagascar signed the Maputo Protocol in 2004 but has not yet ratified it. The protocol is an important regional instrument aimed at promoting and protecting women's rights in Africa
While Madagascar has made strides in legislating against gender-based violence and supporting victims, challenges remain, particularly concerning reproductive rights and the full implementation of international agreements like the Maputo Protocol
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