In a significant decision on February 23, 2010, the High Court of Swaziland granted some married women the right to register property in their own names. This ruling marks a crucial step towards gender equality in property ownership, a fundamental right that has been denied to women in Swaziland for centuries. Despite the Constitution’s guarantee of equal rights, women in Swaziland have continued to face discrimination in accessing and controlling property, hindering their economic empowerment and independence.
Property Rights and Gender Equality:
The High Court’s ruling is a response to the long-standing issue of women’s property rights in Swaziland. Under customary law, women have been denied the right to own property, with husbands or male relatives controlling marital property. This has limited women’s ability to access credit, start businesses, and make decisions about their own lives. The ruling recognizes women’s autonomy and capacity to enter into contracts, a crucial step towards economic empowerment.
Conflicting Laws and Lack of Political Will:
The recent High Court ruling, pertaining solely to women married under civil law with a community of property agreement, excludes the vast majority of Swazi women governed by customary law. Political reluctance to reform customary practices in line with constitutional principles has stymied advancements in gender parity regarding property ownership. Persistent discriminatory statutes and traditions have deprived women of inheritance rights, financial access, and autonomy in decision-making. Addressing these systemic injustices necessitates comprehensive legal reforms and societal shifts towards gender equality. Without such measures, the fundamental rights of women to inherit property, access credit, and assert control over their lives will continue to be compromised, perpetuating entrenched inequalities in Swaziland.
The Impact of Customary Law on Property Ownership:
Historically, Swazi customary law has disenfranchised women, denying them property ownership rights while empowering men to control marital assets. This inequality obstructs women’s access to credit, stifles entrepreneurial endeavors, and perpetuates gender disparity. The recent High Court decision marks progress in acknowledging women’s property rights. Yet, substantial efforts are imperative to dismantle the entrenched patriarchal norms dictating property ownership in Swaziland. Advocacy for legal reforms, community education, and cultural shifts are essential to ensure equitable access to property and dismantle systemic gender discrimination. Despite this milestone, sustained commitment is vital to effect lasting change and foster a society where women enjoy equal rights and opportunities in property ownership.
Conclusion:
The High Court’s ruling is a significant step towards recognizing women’s property rights in Swaziland. However, much work remains to be done to address the discriminatory laws and practices that have denied women their right to own property. Reforming customary law, aligning it with the Constitution, and recognizing women’s autonomy and capacity to enter into contracts are crucial steps towards achieving gender equality in property ownership. By recognizing women’s property rights, Swaziland can promote economic empowerment, reduce poverty, and create a more equitable society.
