As the African Union’s Convention on Eliminating Violence Against Women and Girls gains momentum across the continent, Benin has taken a decisive step forward. The government’s recent move to submit this landmark treaty for parliamentary approval signals a critical shift in how the country addresses the deep-rooted issue of gender-based violence. But what does this legal commitment mean for ordinary citizens, local businesses, and the broader economy?
The real cost of gender-based violence in Benin
For years, Benin has struggled to curb the devastating effects of gender-based violence, which permeates homes, workplaces, and digital spaces alike. A 2025 national survey revealed that nearly one in three women aged 15-49 has experienced physical violence since age 15. The economic toll is staggering—lost productivity, healthcare costs, and judicial expenses drain public resources, while families bear the emotional and financial burden of supporting survivors. Small businesses, particularly in retail and hospitality, often face disruptions when employees miss work due to violence, while perpetrators’ untreated behavior fuels cycles of poverty and instability.
A legal milestone with far-reaching consequences
The AU Convention, adopted in 2025, stands out for its comprehensive approach to violence prevention and victim protection. Unlike previous frameworks, it explicitly addresses digital abuse, economic coercion, and psychological harm—forms of violence that have surged with the rise of social media. By ratifying this treaty, Benin would align with continental standards, ensuring that survivors receive legal recourse regardless of where the violence occurs. The Convention also prohibits using tradition, culture, or religion to excuse abuse, a provision that could challenge entrenched norms and promote accountability.
For businesses, this ratification could streamline legal safeguards for female employees and customers, reducing liability risks associated with workplace harassment or customer-facing incidents. Economically, a country perceived as safer for women may attract more investment, particularly in sectors like tourism and finance.
Challenges on the road to implementation
Yet translating legal promises into tangible change won’t be simple. The Convention’s success hinges on three critical factors:
- Institutional capacity: Local courts and law enforcement must be trained to handle gender-based violence cases with sensitivity, but Benin currently lacks specialized personnel and forensic resources.
- Public awareness: Many communities still view violence as a private matter, and misconceptions about