Proceedings of the Global Conference on Gender Studies
Year: 2024
DOI:
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Towards Inclusive Legal Reforms: The Role Of Gender Discrimination Laws in Promoting Gender Equality in The Philippines
John Carlo Colot, MPA
ABSTRACT:
In order to evaluate the laws’ contribution to gender equality, this study examines the effectiveness and inclusivity of gender discrimination laws in the Philippines. Gender inequality continues to exist despite significant legislative accomplishments such as the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act and the Magna Carta of Women, revealing gaps between legal frameworks and societal reality. Using a mixed-methods approach, this study combines qualitative observations from interviews with policymakers, legal experts, and impacted individuals with quantitative analysis of employment and legal data. The results show that although awareness of gender equality has increased and certain laws have been passed, their impact has frequently been undermined by cultural biases and poor implementation. Comprehensive implementation is hampered by structural obstacles such societal norms, a lack of political will, and restricted access to legal resources. The picture of gender discrimination is further complicated by the interconnectedness of gender with other variables like socioeconomic class, education, and ethnicity. The study emphasises how important it is to implement inclusive legal reforms that deal with these complex issues. Enhancing legal knowledge, fortifying enforcement protocols, and encouraging a more inclusive and participatory legislative process are among the recommendations. Furthermore, public awareness initiatives and the integration of gender sensitivity training across multiple sectors are essential for cultural transformation. In the end, this study promotes a comprehensive strategy for legal changes, highlighting the mutually beneficial relationships between strong legal frameworks, efficient application, and societal transformation. The Philippines may advance towards true gender equality by addressing both the legal and cultural aspects, making sure that laws function as tools for inclusion and empowerment for all citizens.
keywords: gender equality; legal reforms; gender discrimination; inclusive legislation; philippines