Human Rights Watch warns women in Cameroon left unprotected

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused Cameroon of failing to meet a decade-old commitment to tackle violence against women and girls, warning that thousands remain vulnerable to abuse without adequate protection or access to justice, as reported by Africanews with AFP on June 24th.

In a report published on June 23rd, the rights organisation said widespread violence continues to affect women across the country due to weak institutions, discriminatory laws and deeply rooted gender inequality. HRW argued that government efforts to address the issue have been insufficient, leaving many victims without support services or legal recourse.

The report highlighted the role of social attitudes that normalise or excuse violence against women, describing them as a major factor behind the persistence of abuse. It also pointed to chronic underinvestment in prevention programmes and assistance for survivors.

According to official government figures, 77 women were killed by their partners in 2024. However, HRW said the true number is likely significantly higher because many incidents of domestic violence and femicide go unreported.

The organisation noted that most cases of violence occur within the home and are commonly carried out by husbands, partners or male relatives. Victims often face additional barriers when seeking help, including a lack of support services and corruption within police and public institutions.

Economic inequality was also identified as a key driver of vulnerability. HRW said women frequently face restrictions on financial independence, with husbands often controlling household income after marriage. Widows can also be stripped of land and property rights, while inheritance laws and practices continue to disadvantage women.

The report linked these issues to broader gender disparities in the country. In 2023, Cameroon ranked 148th out of 162 countries on the United Nations Development Programme’s Gender Inequality Index, reflecting significant gaps between men and women in employment, education and reproductive health.

Human Rights Watch has called on the government to take urgent action, including reforming discriminatory family laws and creating a coordinated national strategy to combat domestic violence. It also urged authorities to expand access to support services and strengthen protections for women and girls nationwide.

Africanews with AFP, Maghrebi.org