Woman’s Rights in South Africa
Why protect women’s rights?
Generally, Black women were obviously doubly disadvantaged as a result of their race and their gender. The law, in various forms, has had a significant role in this prejudice. South African women has also had to contend with extremely high rates of rape and domestic violence for a long time. Customary law, for instance, gives black women the status of minors and excludes them from rights regarding children and property. South Africa’s common law deprived white women of guardianship and various economic rights. Furthermore, women, black women in particular, are still economically disadvantaged: they make up a disproportionate section of the unemployed and tend to occupy more of the lower-paid jobs, as domestic and farm labourers, they often earn less than men for the same tasks.
What are the basic women’s rights?
The basic women’s rights include the right to live free from violence and discrimination; to enjoy the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health; to be educated; to own property; to vote; and to earn an equal wage.
Does South Africa support women’s rights?
Yes. Although South Africa is recognized for having some of the most progressive laws and policies intended to advance women’s rights and gender equality. However, women are disproportionately represented amongst the poor, the unemployed, and the hungry. According to statement by Oxfam, it support grassroots organizations and movements of women and gender non-conforming people so that they can more effectively advocate for social, political and economic justice.
