Malawi's 2013 Gender Equality Act

Malawi's Gender Equality Act (GEA), enacted in 2013, is a piece of legislation aimed at addressing gender inequality and discrimination. The act was a step in the country's efforts to promote the rights of women and girls, and it established a legal framework to combat various forms of discrimination and harmful practices.[1]

Key provision

The GEA's key provisions[2] include[1]:

  • Prohibition of sex discrimination: The act criminalizes discrimination based on sex in all aspects of life, including employment, education, and public services.
  • Combating harmful practices: It outlaws harmful cultural practices such as child marriage and female genital mutilation.
  • Sexual harassment: The GEA provides a legal definition of sexual harassment and establishes penalties for offenders.
  • Gender quotas: The act includes provisions for gender quotas in public service employment, with the goal of achieving a more balanced representation of men and women.
  • Enforcement: The Malawi Human Rights Commission is empowered to monitor and enforce the act, including investigating complaints and making recommendations.
  • Reproductive health: The act affirms the right to sexual and reproductive health services, including family planning and maternal health care.[3][4]

References

  1. ^ a b "Woman laws at Malawi". Law Gratis. Retrieved 2025-08-13.
  2. ^ "Gender Equality Act of 2013 : Strengthening provision of reproductive health services for Adolescents in Malawi with special reference to contraceptive services". University of Pretoria. 2021-07-29. hdl:2263/81307.
  3. ^ "Malawi National Gender Statistics Assessment" (PDF). UN Women Women Count.
  4. ^ "The malawi Gender equaliTy acT – a TeachinG Guide" (PDF). ScotlandMalawi Partnership Scotland the Open University.
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