ASSESSMENT OF GENDER POLITICS AND WOMEN'S REPRESENTATION IN CAMEROON

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

The establishment of a fair, equal, and successful society in a country is commonly acknowledged to rely primarily on a complete political process and the economic activity of that nation (Fouthe, 2017). Gender discrimination continues to be a significant concern in political processes and socio-economic development in almost all countries worldwide, as democratic governance emerges (UN Women Cameroon, 2015). However, a small number of women still engage in political activities or occupy very significant positions of decision-making in their respective nations. This research aims to examine the many types of prejudice inherent in gender studies, with a specific focus on the representation and political involvement of women. The existing data on women's participation in politics and positions of power and authority, as well as their ability to make decisions in both public and private sectors and civil societies, indicates that despite their numerous efforts, initiatives, and operational strategies, they consistently face opposition to the progress of women in positions, professions, and fields that have traditionally been dominated by men (Kassa, 2015). This raises concerns about the representativeness of current political frameworks.

Political engagement is beneficial for the functioning of democracy, but, all democracies are plagued by persistent disparities in involvement. Women's rights are founded on the premise that, as autonomous individuals, women are entitled to membership in a society that acknowledges and safeguards their rights under the authority of the state (Kassa, 2015). These rights primarily include the right to actively engage in the political affairs of their country, since the lack, violation, or rejection of this right lies at the heart of women's quest for equal and respectful treatment.

According to the General Population and Housing Census of 2005 in Cameroon, women make up around 50.5% of the estimated population of 19,406,900 people. The female population has grown by 10.1% from 2005 to 2015, while the male population has grown by 9.9% (GPHC, 2020). Women are vital catalysts of socioeconomic transformation needed throughout all sectors of any economy. Despite improvements in various aspects of national life, the participation of women remains a concern due to ongoing gender inequality in important areas such as education, health, economy, politics, and employment, among others (African Development Bank Group, 2015). To address these inequities, the government of Cameroon has formally approved several international treaties, agreements, and legislation that create Human Rights. Of particular importance are the rights of women, which include a gender perspective towards achieving sustainable and equitable development.Historically, women in Cameroon were excluded from participating in governance because to the societal expectations that limited them to productive and reproductive responsibilities. However, during the period of colonisation, the Eurocentric perspective on the ideal role and identity of women was introduced. This notion marginalised women, pushing them to the background (Kinge, 2015).The invisibility of women in public life was worsened by the fact that males received education and training for administrative roles, whilst women, even those who attended school, were primarily trained for domestic duties as housewives. The prevalence of a cash crop economy and the need for individuals to pay taxes in order to be eligible for leadership roles, such as electing counsellors for the Native Authority, impeded women's ability to engage in public life. The British Colonial Administration governed Cameroon for a duration of over four decades, spanning from 1922 to 1961. It is noteworthy that until 1951, the citizens of Cameroon were excluded from any electoral processes. It is crucial to acknowledge that the women in Cameroon gained the right to vote in 1946. However, this right was limited by the understanding that women could only vote for male candidates.at 1951, at Bamenda, the capital city of Northwest Cameroon, the South West and South East Native Authorities granted permission for the inclusion of special representatives to advocate for women's interests on the councils. In the first council, four women participated, while in the latter council, three women were included (Sundström, 2016). These legislators, who only advocated for women's interests, did not have equal participation as males and were unable to speak on behalf of the whole community. Furthermore, with the presence of women in the legislative body, a woman was also designated as a court member in the Tiko Council in 1957. British publications about Cameroon indicate that the population of the nation still employs women in roles such as midwives, female instructors, and some female secretarial workers (Jacobsen and  Fratzke, 2016). While there was an increase in women's representation in public government, their presence remained significantly restricted due to the higher level of education among males. Additionally, political engagement was tied to tax payment, and only a small number of women owned companies, making it difficult for most women to afford to pay taxes. However, women saw increased opportunities for political engagement with the implementation of the December 1957 Southern Cameroons Electoral Regulations. The Electoral policy granted women the freedom to participate in elections, exercising their suffrage, without the previous need of taxes that had limited their involvement. During the 1959 general assembly, women were granted suffrage and exercised their voting rights for the first time. Both Southern Cameroon and East Cameroon actively took part in the 1961 plebiscite elections, which ultimately resulted in the reunification of the two regions. Therefore, the researcher sought to assess gender politics and women's representation in Cameroon.

Statement of the problem

In Cameroon, like in several other countries worldwide, gender politics continues to be a crucial element of societal dynamics, exerting influence on power structures, policy development, and social attitudes. Although there have been tremendous advancements in achieving gender equality and empowering women, there are still major inequalities in political representation (Sundström, 2016). Women often face substantial obstacles that hinder their meaningful involvement in decision-making processes. This study seeks to examine the complex relationship between gender politics and the representation of women in Cameroon. It will explore the underlying causes that either impede or assist women's ability to attain political power and influence within the country's sociopolitical environment.. Hence, the need to assess gender politics and women's representation in Cameroon.

1.3 Objective of the study

The broad objective of the study is to assess gender politics and women's representation in Cameroon. The specific objectives is as follows

To analyze socio-cultural factors shaping gender politics in Cameroon.

To evaluate the level of women's representation in Cameroonian political institutions.

To identify strategies for enhancing women's political participation in Cameroon

1.4 Research questions

The following questions have been prepared for the study

What are the socio-cultural factors shaping gender politics in Cameroon?

What is the current level of women's representation in Cameroonian political institutions?

What strategies and policy interventions have been implemented  to enhance women's political participation in Cameroon?

1.5 Significance of the study

The findings of the study will show better strategies for women‘s participation in politics because the aim of this study is not just to bring to light and create a conscious awareness of women‘s absence in politics but also takes necessary required steps towards redefining sound strategies needed to realize gender equality in the political participation of women in government tiers.

The findings of the study will be beneficial to the academic community as it will contribute to the existing literature on the subject matter.

1.6 Scope of the study

The study focuses on gender politics and women's representation in Cameroon. Empirically, the study will  analyze socio-cultural factors shaping gender politics in Cameroon, evaluate the level of women's representation in Cameroonian political institutions and identify strategies for enhancing women's political participation in Cameroon. 

1.7 Limitation of the study

Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. Insufficient funds tend to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature, or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire, and interview), which is why the researcher resorted to a moderate choice of sample size. More so, the researcher will simultaneously engage in this study with other academic work. As a result, the amount of time spent on research will be reduced.

1.8 Definition of Terms

Gender politics: Gender politics refers to the power dynamics, societal norms, and expectations surrounding the roles of men and women

Womens representation: presents women in limited patterns in the patriarchal society, especially in the media.