Deputy President Paul Mashatile says gender equality is fundamental to a thriving democracy.
“True democracy can only flourish when all individuals are treated with dignity and respect and have access to equal opportunities. Gender equality is not only a struggle for a fundamental human right, but it is also essential for achieving sustainable development, promoting peace and security, and fostering a more just and inclusive society,” the Deputy President said.
He highlighted the need for a renewed commitment to the principles outlined in the Women’s Charter and the development priorities of the 2025 Group of 20 (G20).
Deputy President Mashatile was speaking at the inaugural P20 Women’s Parliament of the seventh administration on Wednesday.
He acknowledged the significant strides made in advancing women’s rights in South Africa. “We salute the contribution of women towards the liberation of the oppressed people of South Africa.”
The Deputy President highlighted the elevated representation of women in leadership positions, noting that South Africa holds the second position among G20 nations regarding female representation, with women constituting 42% of the MPs.
However, the Deputy President did not shy away from addressing the ongoing challenges in achieving true gender equality.
Despite the collective progress since 1994, he pointed out significant disparities that still exist across different sectors of the economy, which remain predominantly male-dominated.
“The reality is that, despite an increase in representation in Parliament since 1994… we have not fully realised the ideals of the Freedom Charter,” he added.
The Deputy President called on attendees to prioritise the empowerment of women in efforts to promote economic growth and social equality.
“Women’s rights are human rights,” he said, urging collective action to combat persistent challenges such as the gender pay gap and under-representation in leadership roles.
In addition, he used the platform to advocate for legislative measures that will guarantee women-owned small, micro, and medium businesses access to working capital and inclusion in the mainstream economy.
He emphasised that achieving gender equality is a responsibility that extends beyond government.
“Regardless of our sex and gender orientation, all of us must be motivated to continue the fight for gender equality.”
He reminded the Members of Parliament (MPs) of the pivotal role women play not only in governance but also in the broader context of societal development.
The Deputy President touched on the legacy of the 1956 women’s march, which served as a pivotal moment in the struggle for justice and equality.
“Their chant, ‘Wathint’ abafazi, wathint’ imbokodo’ [You strike a rock, you strike a woman] goes beyond mere words; it embodies the tenacity, resilience, and strength of women,” he said, stressing that this spirit is still evident today.
The country’s second-in-command further elaborated frameworks laid out in the Freedom Charter and the Women’s Charter.
“The Women’s Charter outlined women’s rights for voting, employment, marriage, and family… where all citizens, regardless of gender, have equal rights and opportunities.”
The P20 Women’s Parliament serves as an essential platform for discussing women’s issues and driving initiatives aimed at achieving gender equality, sustainable development, and shared prosperity in South Africa and beyond. – SAnews.gov.za
