Malawi's 2013 Gender Equality Act (GEA)

Malawi's Gender Equality Act (GEA), enacted in 2013, is a piece of legislation aimed at addressing gender inequality and discrimination. The act was a step in the country's efforts to promote the rights of women and girls, and it established a legal framework to combat various forms of discrimination and harmful practices. ^[1]

Key provision

The GEA's key provisions ^[2] include ^[1] :

• Prohibition of sex discrimination: The act criminalizes discrimination based on sex in all aspects of life, including employment, education, and public services.

• Combating harmful practices: It outlaws harmful cultural practices such as child marriage and female genital mutilation.

• Sexual harassment: The GEA provides a legal definition of sexual harassment and establishes penalties for offenders.

• Gender quotas: The act includes provisions for gender quotas in public service employment, with the goal of achieving a more balanced representation of men and women.

• Enforcement: The Malawi Human Rights Commission is empowered to monitor and enforce the act, including investigating complaints and making recommendations.

• Reproductive health: The act affirms the right to sexual and reproductive health services, including family planning and maternal health care. ^{[3] [4]}

References

1. "Woman laws at Malawi". Law Gratis. Retrieved 2025-08-13.
2. "Gender Equality Act of 2013 : Strengthening provision of reproductive health services for Adolescents in Malawi with special reference to contraceptive services". University of Pretoria. 2021-07-29. hdl:2263/81307.
3. "Malawi National Gender Statistics Assessment" (PDF). UN Women Women Count.
4. "The malawi Gender equaliTy acT – a TeachinG Guide" (PDF). ScotlandMalawi Partnership Scotland the Open University.