From a legal perspective, Malawi has made tremendous progress toward eliminating
discrimination against women. In addition to passing the Gender Equality Act (2012), the
Prevention of Domestic Violence Act (2006), and the Deceased Estates (Wills, Inheritance
and Protection) Act (2011), the government has demonstrated its commitment by
embracing gender mainstreaming in policy decisions, legislation, and development plans
and programs. Parliamentary election results reflected similar progress as the number of female members of Parliament (MPs) increased steadily from 5.2% in 1994 to 22.3% in 2009. While Malawians express support for equal rights for women when it comes to owning land
and getting a job, gender-based discrimination is not a rare experience, according to survey
respondents. Many – but far from all – Malawians say girls and women already have access
to the same life opportunities as boys and men. Despite the majority view that women should
have the same chance as men to be elected, Malawian women continue to trail their male
counterparts in engaging in political activities. Overall, survey results suggest a need for
strategic and better-coordinated efforts to empower women to become active in politics, as
the environment seems conducive to their support.
