Violence against women remains a significant human rights violation globally, affecting millions and undermining gender equality.
In Tanzania, the government has made substantial progress in addressing this issue through legal measures such as the Sexual Offences Special Provisions Act and the National Plan of Action to End Violence Against Women and Children. These frameworks have increased awareness and protection, contributing to the fight against gender-based violence. However, despite these efforts, discriminatory laws still exist, preventing women and girls from fully enjoying their rights and accessing development opportunities.
Recognising the importance of legal reforms, UN Women, with support from the Government of the Netherlands and the EU delegation in Tanzania, launched a study titled “Analysis of Laws of Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar from a Gender Perspective.” The study identified 76 legal reform recommendations aimed at ensuring gender equality, including the repeal of two discriminatory laws, amendments to 18 existing laws, and the enactment of five new laws. The initiative aligns Tanzania’s legislative framework with international human rights standards, addressing issues such as employment rights, gender-based violence online, and property rights, which are crucial for protecting women and promoting their full participation in society.
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At the launch event, Justice Winfrida Beatrice Korosso of the Court of Appeal emphasized the need for legislative changes in key areas, including marriage laws and workplace regulations. She highlighted the importance of aligning the legal marriage age with adulthood and ensuring equal pay for equal work as essential steps towards protecting young girls and promoting workplace equality. UN Women’s Nisha Arekapudi added that gaps in women’s inheritance rights, often influenced by religious and customary practices, still pose significant challenges. She noted that in some legal contexts, puberty is used as a marker instead of a set biological age, undermining the rights of women and creating disparities.
The multi-sectoral dialogue, which gathered stakeholders from various sectors, concluded with a joint statement, “Forging Pathways to End All Forms of Violence Against Women and Girls.” The statement highlighted the need to integrate gender equality into national legislation and development plans. Participants, including representatives from gender ministries, justice stakeholders, parliamentarians, and civil society organisations, committed to strengthening legal frameworks, advocating for the repeal of discriminatory laws, and fostering a culture of zero tolerance towards violence against women and girls.
