Press Release - The governments of Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe have failed to protect women participating in Informal Cross-Border Trade (ICBT) from gender-based violence and economic exploitation, which has impeded the women's ability to exercise their human rights in the context of decent work, Amnesty International said today in a new report.
Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe Failing to Protect the Human Rights of Women Working in Informal, Cross-Border Trade
"The vulnerability of women in informal employment to diverse forms of abuse, combined with restricted access to justice, highlights a glaring gap in state protection.
The report highlights systemic state failures in upholding the right to social security, with notable deficits in addressing the substantial care responsibilities borne by women engaged in cross-border trade. In the absence of social protection coverage, many of the women reported inability to exercise their right to an adequate standard of living. They also faced challenges such as being unable to take time off when sick and having little support in terms of childcare.
Although women comprise the majority of cross-border traders, Amnesty's research revealed a prevalence of male leadership in informal cross-border trader associations , posing concerns about equitable representation in policy discussions and decision-making processes.Informal cross-border trade in Africa has played a role in promoting regional integration and ensuring food security across the continent.
However, it is crucial to note that the decision to engage in ICBT often stems from a lack of other viable employment options. While many women see ICBT as a means to lift themselves and their families out of poverty, it often comes with great personal costs. Survivors of gender-based violence experienced in the course of their work in ICBT also face numerous socio-cultural and institutional barriers, including stigmatization, corruption, fear of reprisals, limited access to legal services, and long distances to police stations. These obstacles hinder their attempts to attain justice from authorities.There was a problem processing your submission. Please try again later.
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