The Government generally respects these provisions. Women Violence against women, particularly spousal abuse, is widespread and increasing, according to the Ministry of Women's Rights and Family Welfare, attorneys, and nongovernmental organizations. In March the National Council of Women reported a 43 percent increase in registered cases of domestic violence in 1994 over 1993. To address this issue, the Ministry requested consultative assistance from the United Nation's Children's Fund. There are no special provisions in Mauritian law concerning family violence.
Police are generally reluctant to become involved in cases of spousal abuse.
Women have traditionally occupied a subordinate role in society, and societal discrimination continues. The National Assembly addressed one facet of this problem in 1995 when it amended the Citizenship Act to permit women to transmit citizenship to their children and obtain residence and work permits for their spouses, as do men. Nearly half of Mauritian women work outside the home. The Government also moved to promote greater equality by amending the Constitution to prohibit discrimination against women. The Government placed a strong emphasis on the health and welfare of children, and displayed a commitment to expand educational opportunities for children.