In Gabon, equality between women and women is taking a new step. On Tuesday, March 23, the government adopted a bill amending the Civil Code. This change aims to promote gender equality. If the project adopted by the government is approved by both houses of parliament, Gabonese women will have autonomy and also responsibility.
The bill adopted by the Gabonese government on Tuesday allows for more equality between women and men, unlike the current civil law. In a couple, the man must share the role of head of the family. And the spouses will be able to choose a family home together.
When it comes to divorce, the mistakes that the man has made from now on can justify the separation. This is the case, for example, with adultery. At present, divorce is granted only when the woman has committed adultery. The new text also introduces the concept of divorce through mutual consent. And the wife is no longer obliged, in the event of a trip with her children, to ask her husband for permission.
The man still earns some stripes. In the event that his wife dies, his share of the inheritance returns directly to him. Men who are beaten by their wives can also get a divorce.
To be applicable, the new Civil Code must first be adopted by the National Assembly and the Senate, where the ruling party has an absolute majority.
