THE SUBSTANTIAL AMBIGUITY OF THE LEGAL DISCOURSE ON GENDER EQUALITY IN CAMEROON

Abstract

This study examines the issue of gender equality in Cameroon. It highlights the substantial ambiguity of the legal discourse on gender equality in Cameroon, which is founded on a normative assertion of legal equality between men and women, yet is often contradicted by discriminatory legal norms and practices to the detriment of women. The study adopts the doctrinal cum sociological positivism as its research methodology. This approach is particularly suited to legal study as it enables the examination of law beyond its formal expression. The findings indicate that the solemnity and firmness of the constitutional affirmation of the principle of gender equality contrast with the limited and inconsistent application of non-discrimination between men and women across the various branches of Cameroonian law. The study recommends the principle of non-discrimination should be effectively translated into practice through its implementation in laws and regulations. The legislature should refrain from enacting discriminatory laws, just as the administration should avoid adopting discriminatory measures against women. The judiciary, whether constitutional, administrative, or ordinary courts, should ensure compliance with this principle.