Botswana

The Republic of Botswana is often described as a flourishing multiparty democracy with a growing economy. However, women are still inadequately represented in high political and decision-making positions. In addition, despite the country's economic growth, there has also been an increase in poverty and social inequality. The relatively small population of 1.84 million has both a high per capita income, estimated at $13,300 in 2008, and one of the world's highest human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection rates. The national prevalence rate among adults [Page 179]aged 15 to 29 years is 24 percent. Women have an increased risk for HIV infection, and men aged 15 to 24 years experience an HIV prevalence rate of 5.7 percent, whereas women of the same age group experience prevalence ...