Gender-based Discrimination

Gender-based discrimination, as prohibited by the Act, encompasses both direct and indirect forms. Direct discrimination involves treating individuals differently based on their gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, or childbirth. Indirect discrimination occurs when a seemingly neutral provision or practice disproportionately disadvantages individuals based on these characteristics, or due to parenthood or family responsibilities, unless objectively justified. This prohibition also extends to sexual harassment, gender-based harassment, and any instruction to discriminate.

Gender-based Discrimination, as understood within the Nigeria Gender Policy and consistent with international instruments like CEDAW, refers to any distinction, exclusion, or restriction made on the basis of sex which has the effect or purpose of impairing or nullifying the recognition, enjoyment, or exercise by women, irrespective of their marital status, on a basis of equality of men and women, of human rights and fundamental freedoms in the political, economic, social, cultural, civil, or any other field. This includes direct and indirect forms of discrimination in employment, access to opportunities, and remuneration, which the NGP seeks to eliminate.