The Politics of Gender Reform in West Africa

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This anthropological study significantly contributes to discussions on African modernity by exploring gender reform in West Africa. Historically, gender reform efforts have faced skepticism, with concerns that they undermine traditional authority and are linked to Western imperialism. The author examines a state-driven legislative process aimed at reducing the gender gap in Ivorian society. He analyzes the legislative efforts to narrow this gap, the impact on women's conditions through civil marriage practices in Abidjan, and the reception of these reforms among Catholics and Muslims in Côte d'Ivoire. The study highlights the interplay between secular powers and religious authorities in shaping gender reform trajectories. While primarily focused on Côte d'Ivoire, it also draws parallels with Niger, Senegal, and Mali, demonstrating that the success or failure of gender reforms is influenced by complex power dynamics across international, national, local, religious, and domestic contexts. The book concludes with a thoughtful reflection on the interactions between religion, the state, and gender reforms, emphasizing the challenges of integrating hegemonic modernity within Africa.