Obstacles to growth: gender, discrimination and development in Tonga

Abstract

It is clear that women are a force to be reckoned with and have the potential to contribute enormously to the economy; however, they face many impediments to engaging in business and entrepreneurial activities. This article explores the sociopolitical and legal barriers through a gendered lens. It is in four parts. First the fundamental barrier women face—the prohibition on land ownership is examined. It denies women access to a resource essential for all forms of private sector activity. Second, we analyse the legal barriers entrenched in the laws of Tonga that disadvantage women either directly or indirectly. Third, the political and institutional barriers that further entrench this discrimination are examined. The final section considers the manner in which human rights discourse could provide a way of thinking, bringing all stakeholders together to collaborate in alleviating these barriers in the future.