full version - World Organisation Against Torture

CameroonAlthough exact numbers of abortions are not available, abortions areknown to be commonplace in Cameroon. A 1991 showed that 40% of allurgent gynaecological operations were linked to abortions. 74 Clandestineabortions are extremely frequent. The complications resulting from clandestineabortions carried out by non-professionals constitute a seriousproblem in Cameroon, particularly among adolescents and among marriedwomen whose husbands forbid them to use contraception. Because of alack of medical knowledge and the carelessness of the person performingthe abortion, the procedure is life threatening and there is a high risk ofHIV-infection.A national population policy was adopted by the Government in 1992 andan information and education programme on the benefits of responsibleparenthood is being implemented. However, obstacles to an increase incontraceptive prevalence include pro-natalist attitudes, poor communicationinfrastructure in some areas of the country and insufficient familyplanning facilities. 757. Conclusions and RecommendationsOMCT is concerned about reports of the poor human rights situation inCameroon which is especially detrimental to the most vulnerable groupsof society, such as women. Although the Cameroonian Constitutionappears to be based on gender-equality, OMCT observes the persistenceof gender-discriminatory provisions in several laws and the discriminatorycustomary law, as well as the prejudices and stereotypical attitudes concerningthe role of women and men in the family and society. These rolesare based on the notion of the superiority of men and the subordination ofwomen. The low socio-economic status of women, which is partly manifestedby the high illiteracy rate among women and low representation ofwomen in politics, leaves women more vulnerable to violence at the publicand private levels in Cameroon.OMCT is extremely concerned about the persisting reports of torture andill-treatment of prisoners by state officials, arbitrary arrests and detention,and extra-judicial killings and the impunity with which these humanrights violations are met.139