IS LEGAL REFORM NEEDED FOR FATHERS' RIGHTS AND GENDER EQUALITY IN T&T?

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​As Trinidad and Tobago approaches its general elections, the Single Fathers Association of Trinidad and Tobago (SFATT) has called on political parties to commit to legislative reforms and social policies that address challenges faced by fathers, men, and boys nationwide. SFATT President Rhondall Feeles has emphasized the organization's non-partisan stance, engaging with the government, opposition, and emerging political entities to discuss these issues.

Proposed Legislative Reforms
​SFATT has outlined several key areas for legal reform aimed at promoting gender equality and strengthening the role of fathers in society:

• Paternity Leave – Introduction of substantial paternity leave to encourage active fatherhood and support family well-being.
• Mandatory Paternity Testing – Implementation of mandatory paternity testing before issuing maintenance orders to ensure fairness and accuracy in parental responsibilities.
• Shared Care and Custody – Enactment of legislation promoting shared custody arrangements for fit parents, ensuring both parents have equal opportunities to participate in their children's upbringing.
• Recognition of Prenuptial Agreements – Legal recognition and enforcement of prenuptial agreements to protect individual assets and clarify financial arrangements in marriages.
• Parental Alienation and Child Abduction – Development of laws addressing parental alienation and child abduction to safeguard children's welfare and uphold parental rights.
  
  

Addressing Social Disparities
SFATT has highlighted several social disparities affecting men and boys, calling for targeted policies to address these issues:​

• Housing and Grants: Single fathers often face challenges in accessing state housing and grants, with a perceived imbalance favoring single mothers. SFATT urges commitments to rectify this disparity.​
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• Biases in Systems: The organization seeks policy changes to eliminate biases against fathers within the courts and social services systems, ensuring fair treatment for all parents.
  

Critical Issues Impacting Men and Boys
SFATT has identified several critical issues disproportionately affecting men and boys in Trinidad and Tobago:​

• Male Suicide Rates: Statistics indicate that 84% of suicide victims annually are male, underscoring the need for targeted mental health strategies.​
• Homelessness: With 94% of homeless individuals being male, SFATT advocates for the establishment of shelters offering accommodation, skill training, and employment assistance.​
• Violent Crime: Approximately 90.7% of murder victims in recent years were male, with 55% having no gang affiliations. SFATT calls for social strategies to raise awareness among men about their vulnerabilities.​
• Access to Opportunities: The organization emphasizes the importance of equal access to information technology, healthcare, and leadership programs for boys, aiming to bridge existing gaps.​
• Shelters for Minor Males: SFATT highlights the lack of shelters for boys aged 11 to 17, stressing the need for facilities to accommodate this vulnerable group.​
• Educational Reforms: The association advocates for an education system that destigmatizes skills-based and life skills training, promoting diverse career paths and personal development.​
  
  

​Do you think these proposed reforms are necessary? Should political leaders prioritize these issues in upcoming legislative discussions? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Important Notice: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always seek consultation with an attorney for your specific legal concerns, as only a professional familiar with the details of your situation can provide proper guidance. 
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​This website is managed by AURORA Chambers; a law practice in Trinidad and Tobago.

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