As Mali is a predominantly rural country, most women in Mali are subjected to traditional roles, especially in these rural areas. Violence against women, including wife beating, is tolerated and common. However, in big parts of Southern Mali, Islam just recently has gotten inpass. It is therefore a question of definition whether nominally Muslim groups, still mostly practising traditional religions, should be defined Muslim. There are numerous active women's groups that promote the rights of women and children.
Women have very limited access to legal services.
They are particularly vulnerable in cases of divorce, child custody, and inheritance rights, as well as in the general protection of civil rights. Women often live under harsh conditions, especially in rural areas, where they perform difficult farm work and do most of the childbearing. Despite legislation giving women equal rights regarding property, traditional practice and ignorance of the law prevent women from taking full advantage of this reform. Female Genital Mutilation is common, especially in rural areas, and is performed on girls at an early age. Violence against women is tolerated and common.