In Mauritania, a series of sexual assaults has sparked widespread outrage, prompting associations and human rights activists to demand the adoption of a specific law against violence against women. Several rape cases, including those involving young girls aged 7 and 4, have highlighted the need for stricter laws to punish sexual crimes in this Islamic republic, where no specific law addresses such violence.
The current legal vacuum and impunity have led to widespread criticism, with human rights activist Roughaya Habott stating that whenever a woman is raped, she is often blamed for "zina" (sexual relations outside marriage), rather than the perpetrator being held accountable. In response, associations have organized rallies to demand exemplary sanctions against rapists and the promulgation of a law to address these cases.
A coalition of associations has called for the adoption of the Karama bill, which has been stalled in parliament since 2020. The bill aims to criminalize physical, sexual, psychological, and economic violence, as well as rape, incest, and sexual harassment. It also provides for the protection and support of victims. The associations argue that the bill is essential to addressing the growing problem of violence against women in Mauritania.
According to Salamata Sy, president of the Mauritanian Association for the Promotion of Girls' Education (Ampef) and a human rights activist, women are in a state of permanent insecurity due to the increasing number of rape cases. She notes that violence against women, including rape followed by murder, has become a daily concern for Mauritanians.
Despite being approved by the Council of Ministers over five years ago, the Karama bill has been rejected several times by parliament. Conservative groups, including some religious leaders, have contested certain provisions of the bill, arguing that they contradict Islamic law, which is the primary source of legislation in Mauritania.
Biram Dah Abeid, a deputy and human rights activist, has denounced the influence of "obscurantist extremists" who have blocked the bill. The government has not yet responded to the associations' demands. Kory ould Sneiba, secretary-general of the SOS Esclaves organization, has stressed that it is high time for the Karama law to be promulgated to combat the widespread problem of rape in Mauritania.
The demand for a law against violence against women has gained momentum in Mauritania, with associations and activists calling for urgent action to protect women and girls from violence. The issue has sparked a national debate, with many calling for greater accountability and protection for victims of sexual violence.
Key points
- Mauritanian associations are demanding the adoption of a law against violence against women, including rape and other forms of violence.
- The Karama bill, which aims to criminalize violence against women, has been stalled in parliament since 2020.
- The associations argue that the law is essential to addressing the growing problem of violence against women in Mauritania.
