AWD Report 2020
1. CENTRAL AFRICA At a minimum, all countries have the principle of gender equality enshrined in their constitutions.
1.1. Constitutional Provisions Most countries in the Central African region have made notable efforts towards increasing women’s right to political participation and representation in decision-making positions. At a minimum, all countries have the principle of gender equality enshrined in their constitutions. During the AWD, four countries (Burundi, Central African Republic, Congo Republic, Equatorial Guinea) made constitutional reforms enshrining quotas or equitable representation for women. Burundi’s 2018 Constitution has the strongest provisions. This now enshrines a minimum of 30% women in the National Assembly, the Senate, the government and the judiciary.746 Central African Republic’s updated Constitution of 2016 increases the minimum numbers of women to be represented in the Constitutional Court (from three members out of nine to four); it also provides for minimum numbers at the High Council of Communication.747 Three countries (Chad, Congo Republic, Equatorial Guinea) have made reforms to enshrine a “commitment” to women’s political participation. Article 34 of Chad’s 2018 Constitution states, “The State works for the promotion of women’s political rights through a better representation within the elected assemblies and institutions and administrations, both public and private.”748 Congo Republic’s 2015 Constitution requires the law to guarantee parity, with women to be promoted and represented across political, elective and administrative functions.749 Equatorial Guinea (2012) provides that, “Public powers will adopt legal initiatives and mechanisms to favour the adequate representation and participation of the Woman.”750 Similarly, DR Congo’s Constitution guarantees the achievement of parity between men and women in national, provincial and local institutions.751 This constitution predates the AWD but has been retained in subsequent amendments.
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