Woman laws at Mauritius
Mauritius has established a robust legal framework to promote gender equality and protect women's rights. Key legislative measures and institutional structures have been put in place to address issues such as domestic violence, reproductive rights, and women's participation in governance.
⚖️ Legal Framework and Gender Equality
National Gender Policy 2022–2030: This policy outlines Mauritius's commitment to creating an inclusive legal and administrative environment that promotes gender equality. It emphasizes the integration of gender considerations into all development planning and implementation processes, covering areas such as legislation, education, governance, employment, and health. The policy aims to eliminate gender-based violence and provide preferential treatment in government procurement to women, youth, and persons with disabilities
National Women's Council (NWC) and National Women Entrepreneur Council (NWEC): These parastatal bodies operate under the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare. The NWC, established in 1985, promotes women's empowerment and gender equality, while the NWEC, set up in 1999, focuses on supporting women entrepreneurs
🏠 Protection from Domestic Violence
Protection from Domestic Violence Act (1997): This Act provides legal recourse for victims of domestic violence, allowing them to apply for protection orders, occupation orders, and tenancy orders The Court can issue interim orders if there is a significant risk of continued violence before the case is heard nBreach of these orders is an offense punishable by fines and imprisonment
Family Welfare and Protection Unit (FWPU): Operating through six Family Support Bureaux across the island, the FWPU offers services such as family and psychological counselling, legal advice, and assistance with applications for protection orders It also provides support to perpetrators through counselling programs
Hotlines and Emergency Services: Mauritius has established several hotlines to assist victims of domestic violence
-Hotline 139: Dedicated to domestic violence
-Hotline 119: For family-related issues
-Police Emergency Response:686 550
-Lespwar App: Provides a panic button that sends the victim's information and GPS location to the Police Command and Control Centre
🩺 Reproductive Rights
Abortion Laws Abortion is permitted under specific condition:
If the pregnancy threatens the life or physical or mental health of the mothe.Up to 14 weeks of gestation if the pregnancy resulted from rape or from sex with a girl under 1.
Abortions must be approved by three specialist physicians, including one obstetrician/gynecologist, or be backed by a police report in the case of rap.
For individuals under 18, approval must be obtained from an adul.
Conscientious objection is allowed
🗳️ Women's Participation in Governance
*Political Representation: Mauritius has implemented measures to increase women's participation in governane The National Gender Policy 2022–2030 emphasizes the need for equitable participation and representation of men and women in both public and private sectors
✅ Conclusion
Mauritius has made significant strides in promoting gender equality and protecting women's rights through comprehensive legal frameworks and institutional suppot While challenges remain, particularly in areas such as the full implementation of reproductive rights and the eradication of gender-based violence, the country's commitment to gender equality is evident in its policies and actios.
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