Benin Moves to Ratify African Convention on Violence Against Women and Girls

The Benin government has taken a significant step towards protecting women and girls from violence by submitting the African Union Convention on the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls to parliament for ratification. This move aims to strengthen the country's legal framework in addressing various forms of violence, including those that occur in cyberspace. The convention, adopted in February 2025, seeks to engage African states in preventing and eliminating violence against women and girls.

The convention emphasizes the importance of a common approach to eliminating violence against women and girls, as well as promoting open dialogue and advocacy to address this issue. By ratifying the convention, Benin aims to integrate cyberspace into its efforts to combat violence against women and girls. This is particularly crucial given the increasing number of online platforms and tools that can be used to perpetrate violence against women.

The Minister of Family and Social Action, Véronique Tognifodé, highlighted the significance of this move, stating that it marks an important step in the country's efforts to protect women and girls. She expressed hope that parliament will grant its approval, enabling Benin to proceed with the ratification process. Tognifodé also emphasized the need for continued efforts to prevent violence, support victims, and promote a culture of respect for women's rights.

The convention also emphasizes the concept of "positive masculinity," which encourages men and boys to play a more active role in preventing violence and promoting respect for women's rights. This approach aims to foster a culture of equality and respect, where men and boys are actively engaged in promoting women's empowerment. By ratifying the convention, Benin is reaffirming its commitment to protecting women's rights and promoting a culture of respect.

The ratification of the convention is seen as a crucial step towards addressing the issue of violence against women and girls in Benin. According to the government, this move demonstrates the country's commitment to translating declarations into concrete actions. As the country approaches the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on November 25, this development serves as a reminder of the need for sustained efforts to combat violence against women.

The African Union Convention on the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls was adopted in February 2025 in Addis Abeba. The convention aims to provide a comprehensive framework for addressing violence against women and girls, including online violence. By ratifying the convention, Benin will join other African countries in the fight against violence and promote a culture of respect for women's rights.

The government's decision to submit the convention to parliament for ratification demonstrates its commitment to protecting women's rights and promoting a culture of respect. The ratification of the convention is expected to strengthen Benin's efforts to combat violence against women and girls, and promote a culture of equality and respect.

Key points

• The Benin government has submitted the African Union Convention on the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls to parliament for ratification.
• The convention aims to engage African states in preventing and eliminating violence against women and girls, including online violence.
• The ratification of the convention is seen as a crucial step towards addressing the issue of violence against women and girls in Benin.