The sufficiency of the legal framework in Cameroon to combat gender-based violence
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University of Pretoria
Abstract
In Cameroon, the persistent issue of gender-based violence (GBV), exacerbated by the Anglophone Crisis, severely impacts women's sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). This research assesses the effectiveness of legal frameworks in addressing GBV while promoting SRHR, utilising a legal dogmatic approach to analyse legal texts and doctrines. Through a feminist lens, it highlights the barriers women face in seeking justice. It emphasises the urgent need for systemic reforms aligned with international human rights standards to protect and empower female survivors.
The study evaluates the efficacy of existing national laws, including international treaties, in prohibiting GBV and analyses their interpretation and enforcement within the judicial system. Findings reveal significant gaps in laws, implementation and systemic barriers that obstruct survivors' access to justice, indicating that current legal and institutional frameworks are inadequate, especially in the Anglophone regions, where humanitarian challenges further complicate survivors' difficulties.
The research underscores the urgent need for comprehensive interventions and policy recommendations to strengthen Cameroon's legal framework and enhance access to justice for GBV survivors. Engaging diverse stakeholders, including government agencies and NGOs, is essential for promoting informed policy formulation. The study advocates for a comprehensive Violence Against Women and Girls Act that adopts a feminist, intersectional, and rights-based approach, aligning with international and regional treaties. It emphasises the importance of robust support services for survivors, continuous judicial training, and public awareness initiatives to foster a culture of respect and protection for women and girls in Cameroon.
This work is vital for advancing legal and ethical discourses surrounding GBV eradication and women’s and girls’ sexual and reproductive rights (SRRA). It significantly contributes to the broader struggle to eradicate gender-based violence and achieve gender equality. The time to act is now in a context where the stakes are high.
Description
Mini Dissertation (LLM (Sexual and Reproductive Rights Africa))--University of Pretoria, 2024.
Keywords
UCTD, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Reproductive health, Gender-based violence, Sexual rights, Sexual health, Reproductive rights
Sustainable Development Goals
SDG-05: Gender equality
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