The Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC) has joined the nation and global community in commemorating International Women’s Day (IWD), urging individuals, institutions, and society to generously provide resources, opportunities, and support to promote women’s rights and dignity for the benefit of the entire nation.
In a statement, the Commission highlighted that investing in women’s rights and equality yields gains for families, communities, and national development.
The Commission noted that in Malawi, women make up a significant portion of the population and labour force, and closing gender gaps is not only a rights issue but a condition for development.
The statement pointed out that despite progress, gender imbalances remain entrenched, with women’s labour force participation at 63.2% compared to 71.1% for men. Sex discrimination continues to limit women’s full enjoyment of rights, especially in rural communities.
The Commission emphasises the Gender Equality Act (GEA) 2013, which prohibits discrimination based on sex, harmful practices and sexual harassment, and introduces gender quotas in public service while affirming sexual and reproductive health rights.
MHRC, as an independent National Human Rights Institution established under Section 129 of Malawi’s Constitution, has a mandate to protect and promote human rights.
