UN committee recommends that Cape Verde protect minors against de facto unions

The UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) urged Cape Verde to amend its civil code to prevent the recognition of de facto unions initiated by minors. This recommendation follows Cape Verde's periodic report presented in Geneva. The committee expressed concern that current laws could legitimize such unions, leaving women vulnerable in legal and economic matters. Additionally, CEDAW highlighted the decline in women's representation in government, recommending changes to ensure equitable representation in executive positions. The committee also called for reforms to criminalize gender-based violence, including political violence and harassment against women.