Cameroon Femicides Surge, Protections Lag
A series of femicides in Cameroon between August 6 and 26 highlights a crisis of gender-based violence and impunity.
Several women were killed in Cameroon between August 6 and 26, some by current or former partners and in the presence of their children. These killings signal that women in the country, including survivors of domestic violence, have little protection or access to justice, according to a report from Human Rights Watch.
The Ministry for the Promotion of Women and the Family (MINPROFF) has acknowledged a surge in reported femicides since 2023. The ministry warned that official figures represent only the "tip of the iceberg." Femicide is defined by the United Nations as the intentional killing of women and girls with a gender-related motivation. It is the most brutal form of violence against women and girls.
Entrenched Inequality and Weak Laws
Violence against women and girls is widespread in Cameroon. It is rooted in entrenched gender inequality, discriminatory laws, and weak institutions. The situation is made worse by the government's chronic underinvestment in prevention programs and support for survivors. Accountability for perpetrators is limited, which reinforces a climate of impunity.
The government has made repeated pledges to take action. In 2022, it adopted a national strategy to combat gender-based violence and a national gender policy. Minister of MINPROFF, Madame Abena Ondoa neé Obama Marie Thérèse, told parliamentarians in June that her ministry was finalizing a bill. This bill would create a standalone criminal offence for gender-based violence and strengthen legal protections for women's rights.
Promises Without Concrete Action
A national security meeting convened by the president in August discussed the increase in femicide cases. Despite these discussions and policy announcements, none of the steps have resulted in clear or immediate measures to remedy the situation. The government has not yet turned its talk into action.
Human Rights Watch states the government should urgently establish a coordinated taskforce. This taskforce should include relevant agencies like MINPROFF, Justice, Defense, National Security, Territorial Administration, and Finance. Initiatives to prevent gender-based violence and assist women must be fully funded.
The number of domestic violence shelters across all regions should be increased. Adequate staffing is needed to help victims and survivors access healthcare, support, and justice. The government should also examine and remove barriers women face when seeking protection orders. Perpetrators of violence must be arrested and prosecuted.
The Cameroon government has made many promises to women. It has not kept them.
