Central African Republic Ratifies the Maputo Protocol: A Major Step for Gender Equality
In a significant advancement for gender equality, the Central African Republic (CAR) has officially ratified the Maputo Protocol, marking its status as the 46th African Union (AU) Member State to endorse this vital treaty aimed at safeguarding the rights of women and girls. The formal deposit of the Protocol’s ratification instruments on July 29, 2025, signals a strong commitment towards ending legal discrimination and enhancing protections for women and girls in the country.
Understanding the Maputo Protocol
The Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa, better known as the Maputo Protocol, stands as one of the most comprehensive legal frameworks regarding women’s rights globally. Adopted in 2003 by the African Union, this treaty delineates a series of obligations designed to eliminate violence against women and girls, promote reproductive rights, and eradicate harmful practices such as child marriage and female genital mutilation. It advocates for equal participation in political, economic, and public life, underscoring the importance of women’s roles in society.
Current Context in the Central African Republic
The human rights landscape in CAR has been challenging, with women and girls particularly vulnerable to conflicts, insecurity, and ineffective governance. The nation has faced persistent cycles of violence and gender-based abuse, often leaving victims without justice or support. The ratification of the Maputo Protocol is seen as a beacon of hope in this context, promising enhanced legal protection and the potential for transformative change.
A Collaborative Effort
The CAR’s ratification is not a standalone achievement; it reflects the collective efforts of civil society, regional partners, and advocacy groups. A pivotal role in this process has been played by the Solidarity for African Women’s Rights Coalition (SOAWR), a network comprising over 70 women’s rights organizations across 33 African nations. These organizations have tirelessly advocated for the universal ratification of the Protocol, aiming to bolster protections for women and girls.
In June 2025, a ratification mission was led to CAR by key members of the SOAWR, including notable figures like Jacques Bandji from the Women’s Counselling and Information Centre (WCIC) in Cameroon. The gathering, attended by civil society advocates and government officials, including Dr. Marthe Augustine Kirimat, CAR’s Minister for Gender Promotion, played an instrumental role in securing the country’s commitment to ratifying the Protocol.
Voices of Advocacy
The success of this initiative has been echoed by various advocates in the field. Barrister Yveline Ntanfai from the WCIC stated, “Effective collaborative advocacy is vital for achieving our goals, as evidenced by the successful CAR mission.” Dr. Tom Mulisa from the Great Lakes Initiative for Human Rights and Development (GLIHD) emphasized the strength of unified advocacy, showcasing the capacity of women’s rights organizations in CAR to push for governmental compliance and progress.
Legal Foundations and Women’s Rights
The Maputo Protocol explicitly affirms that women and girls have the fundamental right to live free from violence. It obligates African governments to adopt comprehensive legislative measures designed to prevent gender-based violence, ensure access to justice, and hold violators accountable. In addition to legal reforms, the Protocol calls for survivor-centered support services, including access to legal aid and public education initiatives aimed at uprooting harmful practices that contribute to discrimination.
Such frameworks empower civil society organizations, legal practitioners, and survivors to challenge unjust laws and fight against any regression of rights. The growing influence of the Protocol is evident, with numerous court decisions across Africa referencing it to uphold the rights of women and girls in critical rulings.
The Importance of Continued Action
Despite these advancements, it is crucial to remain vigilant. The progress made in securing legal rights for women and girls across Africa must not be taken for granted. Strikingly, there is a rising tide of opposition to gender equality, as seen in countries like The Gambia, where activists are attempting to repeal laws that protect against female genital mutilation.
The Maputo Protocol serves as a vital safeguard against such regressions. As an enforceable framework designed to ensure the realization of women’s rights, it provides a clear roadmap for governments to establish solid legal structures and address systemic inequalities.
Urgency for Action and Implementation
With the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals approaching, the full ratification and implementation of the Maputo Protocol by all AU Member States are critical for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 5—gender equality and empowerment for all women and girls. It is imperative that African governments act decisively to not only ratify the treaty but also integrate its provisions into national law without reservations that might undermine its protective measures.
The journey towards gender equality in Africa is ongoing, and while the Central African Republic’s ratification of the Maputo Protocol is a significant milestone, it is just one part of the larger mission to secure and elevate the rights of women and girls. Advocates urge continued commitment and action, ensuring no voice is left unheard, and no right goes unprotected.
