Progress on Addressing Violence Against Women in Africa: The African Union Commission Must Publish the Final Version of Adopted Treaty

May 4, 2025

A Landmark Step Towards Ending Violence Against Women

On May 2, the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights (ACHPR) will hold its first public session since the African Union adopted the Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (CEVAWG). The ACHPR’s public session presents a critical opportunity for Africa to take a decisive stand on women's rights.

The African Union's adoption of CEVAWG and the ACHPR's resolution on obstetric violence represent significant progress in protecting women and girls across Africa. These two pivotal actions signal the continent’s commitment to combating violence against women and ensuring their access to safe maternal healthcare.

Obstetric Violence: A Silent Crisis

In March, the ACHPR adopted a resolution recognizing obstetric violence as a harmful practice that violates women’s rights. Obstetric violence occurs when women and girls experience mistreatment during pregnancy, childbirth, or postpartum care. This includes physical, verbal, and psychological abuse by healthcare providers.

The harmful effects of obstetric violence have led to alarming rates of preventable maternal mortality and morbidity in Africa. This mistreatment dissuades women from seeking necessary medical care, further endangering their health and well-being.

The ACHPR resolution calls for the creation of guidelines to eliminate obstetric violence, with a deadline set for March 2027. These guidelines will provide concrete steps for African governments to improve maternal healthcare and protect women’s rights to life, dignity, and health.

CEVAWG: A Historic Milestone

The CEVAWG treaty, also adopted by the African Union, is hailed as a historic milestone in the fight against all forms of violence against women and girls. The treaty represents a comprehensive, legally binding framework that aims to eliminate violence across the continent, including obstetric violence.

Despite the treaty’s historic significance, the African Union Commission has yet to publish its final version. This delay has restricted civil society’s access to vital information, hindering efforts to engage with African governments and push for the treaty’s ratification.

Next Steps for ACHPR

At its upcoming session, the ACHPR has a crucial opportunity to urge the African Union Commission to publish the CEVAWG treaty and clarify the roadmap for developing guidelines to eliminate obstetric violence. These steps will ensure that the treaty’s promises are translated into actionable protections for women and girls.

⚠️ Tags:

Women's Rights, Violence Against Women, Africa, CEVAWG, Obstetric Violence, AU