Discuss four legislative instruments that promote gender equality in Malawi.

1. The Gender Equality Act: This legislation was enacted in 2013 and aims to promote gender equality and eliminate discrimination based on gender in Malawi. The Act prohibits discrimination in various areas such as employment, education, and access to services. It also mandates the establishment of a Gender Equality Commission to monitor and enforce compliance with the Act.

2. The Prevention of Domestic Violence Act: This legislation was passed in 2006 and provides legal protection for victims of domestic violence, the majority of whom are women. The Act defines domestic violence broadly to include physical, sexual, emotional, and economic abuse. It also establishes mechanisms for reporting and responding to domestic violence, including the establishment of shelters and support services for survivors.

3. The Employment Act: This legislation governs employment practices in Malawi and includes provisions aimed at promoting gender equality in the workplace. The Act prohibits discrimination based on gender in hiring, promotion, and other employment decisions. It also mandates equal pay for equal work and provides for maternity leave and other benefits for female employees.

4. The National Gender Policy: This policy was adopted in 2015 and provides a framework for promoting gender equality and women's empowerment in Malawi. The policy outlines strategies for addressing gender disparities in various sectors, including education, health, and economic development. It also sets targets for increasing women's participation in decision-making processes and improving their access to resources and opportunities.

1. Gender Equality Act (2013)

- Prohibits gender-based discrimination in employment, education, access to services, and political participation.
- Mandates the establishment of a Gender Equality Commission to monitor and enforce the Act.

2. Matrimonial Causes Act (2022)

- Reforms marriage laws to promote gender equality.
- Introduces no-fault divorce and allows women to own property acquired during marriage.
- Raises the minimum age of marriage to 18 and prohibits child marriage.

3. National Gender Policy (2015)

- Provides a comprehensive framework for promoting gender equality across all sectors.
- Sets targets and indicators for measuring progress in areas such as education, health, and economic empowerment.

4. Employment (Minimum Standards) (Gender Equality) Regulations (2017)

- Prohibits gender-based discrimination in recruitment, promotion, compensation, and benefits.
- Requires employers to provide equal opportunities for training and development to both men and women.
- Sets quotas for female representation on boards and in senior management positions.