ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses the issues: Discrimination against women: the problem in perspective, the socio-economic roots of discrimination in Swaziland, de jure discrimination against women: a case study of Swaziland, discrimination and developmental issues and affirmative action as the response? It highlights only the structure of de jure discrimination against women with a brief overview analysis of its impact on development. De jure discrimination against women under Swazi law and custom must, therefore be understood against this kind of background of patrilineal and primogenital heritage. Indeed women suffer most frequently from discrimination when they have domestic responsibilities and are, therefore, often precluded from participating in economic, social or political activities. According to the Women and Development Programme established by Commonwealth governments and Women's action groups, the interests of women can be advanced through policies directed towards training, technical assistance, exchange of experience, research and networking.
