THE Women and Gender Equality Commission has said that it is on a campaign to gather information from persons who have been subjected to gender-based discrimination.

This campaign, according to a press release, has been prompted by recent reports from members of the public and personnel of the Joint Services who have suffered under policies that contravene both Article 9 of the Constitution of Guyana and the Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) to which Guyana is a ratified signatory since July 17 1980.

“Article 11 of CEDAW states that State parties shall take all appropriate measures to eliminate discrimination against women in employment and shall ensure, on the basis of equality of men and women, the same rights to work, the same employment opportunities, free choice of employment, promotion, benefits, vocational training, equal remuneration, equal treatment in respect of work of equal value, the right to social security, unemployment benefits, protection of health. State Parties shall prohibit dismissal on the grounds of pregnancy or marital status. State Parties shall take measures to introduce maternity leave with pay or social benefits.”

According to the Women and Gender Equality Commission: “Women in Guyana have been subjected to delayed promotion and even termination due to pregnancy. They have also suffered other forms of discrimination by employers including, and, in particular, the Disciplined Forces. This lack of adherence to the law is unlawful. These discriminatory practices are unlawful and could be subjected to criminal proceedings.”

It is for this reason that the Commission invited all persons who have been adversely affected by such policies and practices which discriminate unevenly against women or who have experienced sexual harassment at their place [of work] to make contact on telephone number 231-5276 or send an email to ceo@wgec.gov.gy.