2. The Preamble 2.1 The COPAC Draft contains a preamble that recognises the contribution of women and men in the liberation struggle of Zimbabwe. It also affirms a commitment to the rule of law and a respect for human rights and freedoms. It does not, however, affirm the principle of equality and respect for the inherent dignity of all persons regardless of sex. The preamble could be improved by including the concept of equality as one of the core values of the nation. 3. Chapter 1: Founding Provisions 2 3 3.1 The chapter on founding provisions, inter alia, sets out the founding values of the state and the framework for the interpretation of the Constitution and of public laws and policies. It also paints a vision of the kind of society envisaged under the Constitution. 3.2 In their Position Paper, the women expressed the desire for the inclusion of founding principles which affirm the principles of non discrimination and non sexism and the inherent dignity of all human beings. 3.3 Clause 3.1 sets out seven principles and values on which Zimbabwe is founded. Two of these principles / values speaks directly to the need for gender equality by providing for “recognition of the equality of all human beings” and “gender equality”2. Two other principles, namely, “fundamental human rights and freedoms” and “recognition of the inherent dignity and worth of each human being” are also important for women in that they address some of the main causes of the suffering that women face. 3.4 Clause 3.2 details the founding principles of good governence which bind all institutions of the state and government. While all the principles impact women, the principle that requires that the electoral system be based on “adequate representation of the electorate” speaks directly to the need for women to participate in the political process in a way that reflects the general population. 3 Clauses 3(1)(e) and (f) Clause 3(2)(b)(iii) 4|Page