Most Gambians want stronger legal action to shield women from mistreatment, with nearly three-quarters supporting enhanced police and judicial intervention against discrimination. A recent survey revealed that half the population doubts authorities take complaints seriously, while one-fifth reported frequent sexual harassment in markets, transportation, and streets.
Gender disparities persist across education and employment. Women complete secondary school at lower rates than men, with 41 percent finishing compared to 47 percent of males. Nearly half of the female respondents lack any formal schooling. Workforce participation shows similar patterns, as 36 percent of men work full-time positions against 22 percent of women. Family obligations and limited childcare contribute to this gap, while one-fifth said relatives block women from seeking paid work.
Political equality faces declining acceptance. Support for equal electoral opportunities dropped 17 percentage points since 2018, with just 58 percent backing gender parity in office. Men prove less supportive at 51 percent versus 65 percent among women. The research documented ongoing classroom problems, noting that 20 percent of students face teacher demands for sexual favors or other harassment. Cultural expectations and rural child marriage continue to limit advancement despite broad agreement that families seldom favor boys in educational access.
Gender disparities persist across education and employment. Women complete secondary school at lower rates than men, with 41 percent finishing compared to 47 percent of males. Nearly half of the female respondents lack any formal schooling. Workforce participation shows similar patterns, as 36 percent of men work full-time positions against 22 percent of women. Family obligations and limited childcare contribute to this gap, while one-fifth said relatives block women from seeking paid work.
Political equality faces declining acceptance. Support for equal electoral opportunities dropped 17 percentage points since 2018, with just 58 percent backing gender parity in office. Men prove less supportive at 51 percent versus 65 percent among women. The research documented ongoing classroom problems, noting that 20 percent of students face teacher demands for sexual favors or other harassment. Cultural expectations and rural child marriage continue to limit advancement despite broad agreement that families seldom favor boys in educational access.
