Championing Gender Equality: Insights from Deputy President Paul Mashatile

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has declared that gender equality is not merely an objective to strive for; it is a fundamental human right and a vital pillar for a thriving democracy, sustainable development, and social cohesion in South Africa. His remarks during the inaugural P20 Women’s Parliament of the seventh administration highlight the urgency and significance of dismantling systemic barriers that hinder women’s full participation across all facets of society.

Gender Equality as a Pillar of Democracy

“True democracy can only flourish when all individuals are treated with dignity and respect and have access to equal opportunities,” Mashatile stated fervently. He underscored the essential role of gender equality in fostering peace, security, and inclusivity. Drawing connections between these ideals and the principles set out in the Women’s Charter, he aligned this vision with South Africa’s developmental goals within the G20 framework for 2025.

Progress and Persistent Inequalities

While acknowledging the strides made since the end of apartheid in 1994, Mashatile pointed out a stark reality: increased representation of women in governance has not translated into gender parity in the economic domain. With women now constituting 42% of Members of Parliament, South Africa holds the second position in female parliamentary representation among G20 nations. However, many sectors remain male-dominated, leaving a gap between representation and participation.

“The reality is that, despite an increase in representation in Parliament since 1994 … we have not fully realised the ideals of the Freedom Charter,” Mashatile lamented. This discrepancy raises critical questions about the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at empowering women economically and socially.

Economic Empowerment and Legislative Measures

Mashatile is advocating for renewed focus on women’s economic empowerment as a crucial avenue for both growth and equality. He called for legislative changes that would secure opportunities for women-owned small, micro, and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs) to access working capital and engage fully in the mainstream economy.

“Women’s rights are human rights,” he emphasized, urging all sectors—public, private, and civil society—to come together to combat issues like the gender pay gap and the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles as well as strategic industries.

A Collective Responsibility Beyond Government

Importantly, Mashatile stressed that the responsibility of achieving gender equality does not rest solely on the shoulders of government. He called upon every citizen, regardless of sex or gender identity, to share the responsibility of fostering gender equality. “All of us must be motivated to continue the fight for gender equality,” he asserted, highlighting the critical contributions of women not only in governance but also in community development and the economy.

Honouring the 1956 Women’s March Legacy

Linking contemporary struggles to historical context, Mashatile referred to the 1956 march by women to the Union Buildings as a monumental event in the fight against oppression. “Their chant, ‘Wathint’ abafazi, wathint’ imbokodo’ [You strike a rock, you strike a woman], embodies the tenacity, resilience, and strength of women,” he noted, drawing inspiration from this legacy to galvanize current efforts.

Frameworks for Equality

Mashatile revisited foundational documents such as the Women’s Charter and the Freedom Charter, which enshrine rights including equality in voting, employment, marriage, and family life. These frameworks are designed to envision a South Africa where all citizens enjoy equal rights and opportunities, irrespective of gender.

Role of the P20 Women’s Parliament

The P20 Women’s Parliament, nestled within the broader P20 initiative linking G20 member states, serves a vital role in advancing gender equality. This platform enables the discussion of women’s issues and helps align legislative priorities with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. By participating in this global dialogue, South Africa can share best practices and collaborate on solutions to shared challenges.

Through his passionate address, Deputy President Mashatile reaffirmed that the ongoing struggle for gender equality is integral to the nation’s vision of shared prosperity, peace, and resilience. His call to action is clear: it is time for every sector of society to unite and ensure that gender equality becomes a tangible and lived reality in South Africa.