African Union Convention Offers Hope in Fight Against Gender-Based Violence

Johannesburg – The African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG), a landmark legal instrument, offers a unified and binding framework for African nations to combat the pervasive issue of gender-based violence (GBV) across the continent. The convention aims to prevent, address, and ultimately eliminate all forms of GBV, which remains a significant barrier to the advancement and well-being of women and girls throughout Africa.

The initiative comes as a response to the alarming prevalence of violence against women and girls in Africa. Statistics indicate that one in three women on the continent experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive and coordinated action.

A Unified Approach to a Persistent Problem

The EVAWG convention represents a significant step towards a harmonized approach to tackling GBV. Prior to its adoption, individual African countries addressed the issue through varying national laws and policies, often lacking the force and consistency required to create meaningful change. The convention provides a common legal framework, outlining specific obligations for member states to prevent violence, protect victims, prosecute perpetrators, and promote gender equality.

Felista P. Ndemu, Tanzania’s Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women, and Special Groups, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts. “This platform offers a unique opportunity to celebrate efforts to end violence against women and girls across Africa. In the fight to eliminate gender-based violence, we face multiple challenges that hinder women and girls' full participation in leadership, decision-making, and the protection of their rights and those of their communities,” she stated.

Historical Context and Current Challenges

The fight against GBV in Africa is deeply rooted in historical and socio-cultural factors. Colonial legacies, coupled with deeply entrenched patriarchal norms and harmful traditional practices, have contributed to the perpetuation of violence against women and girls. These practices include, but are not limited to, female genital mutilation (FGM), child marriage, and discriminatory inheritance laws.

Furthermore, conflict and instability exacerbate the problem. Armed conflicts often lead to widespread sexual violence, with women and girls disproportionately targeted. Displacement and the breakdown of social structures further increase vulnerability to GBV.

Expert Perspective: The Need for Implementation and Enforcement

Dr. Fatima Hassan, a leading researcher on gender and human rights at the University of Cape Town, emphasizes that the true impact of the EVAWG convention hinges on effective implementation and enforcement. “The convention is a powerful tool, but it is only as effective as the commitment of member states to translate its provisions into concrete actions," Dr. Hassan explains. "This requires not only legislative reforms but also investment in law enforcement, judicial training, and support services for survivors. Crucially, it also needs a shift in social norms and attitudes that perpetuate GBV."

Challenges to Overcome

Limited Resources: Many African countries face resource constraints that hinder their ability to fully implement the EVAWG convention. Weak Enforcement Mechanisms: Even with progressive laws in place, enforcement remains a challenge due to corruption, lack of capacity, and cultural biases. Social Norms and Attitudes: Deep-seated patriarchal norms and attitudes continue to normalize and condone violence against women and girls. Lack of Awareness: Many women and girls are unaware of their rights and the available resources for support and protection.

Moving Forward: A Call for Action

The EVAWG convention provides a crucial framework for addressing GBV in Africa, but its success depends on sustained commitment and concerted action from all stakeholders. Governments, civil society organizations, international partners, and communities must work together to implement the convention's provisions, challenge harmful social norms, and empower women and girls to claim their rights.

The focus must be on:

Strengthening legal and policy frameworks. Investing in prevention programs that address the root causes of GBV. Providing comprehensive support services for survivors. Engaging men and boys in promoting gender equality and challenging harmful masculinities. Monitoring and evaluating progress towards the elimination of GBV.

The African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls represents a beacon of hope in the fight against GBV in Africa. By working together to implement its provisions and address the underlying causes of violence, African nations can create a safer and more equitable future for all women and girls.