Working Paper on : a framework for implementation of the global and regional platforms for action in Africa

Abstract

The Fourth World Conference on Women held in Beijing in September 1995 called the World's attention to twelve critical areas of concern which need to be seriously addressed for accelerating the advancement of women. These areas of concern are of significant importance to Africa as they are similarly identified in the African Platform for Action: African Common Position for the Advancement of Women adopted by African member States in Dakar, Senegal in 1994, during the Fifth African Regional Conference on Women, and endorsed by the OAU Assembly of Heads of State and Government in June 1995. In Beijing, several African delegations made commitments to ensure effective implementation of the Platforms. Subject to national priorities, constraints and realities, the commitments are generally to equal access to education, increased participation by women in the decision-making processes, to policy reforms as well as to addressing and reducing the problem of violence against women. In light of the foregoing, this paper seeks to facilitate the elaboration of an implementation strategy taking into account the political, economic and social environments prevailing in the continent.