the right to property (paragraph 1) and the right to inheritance (paragraph 2) for all citizens without distinction. The principle, enshrined in the Constitution, of equality of all before the law is restated in all legislative texts (labour, trade, investment, land tenure, etc.). Other legislative and regulatory texts establish the principle of non-discrimination towards women. Mauritanian women thus have the right to vote and are eligible for election to all publicly elected bodies, including the Office of the President of the Republic (Order Nr. 091-027 of 7 October 1991), the National Assembly (Order Nr. 091-028 of 7 October 1991 on the election of national assembly members), the Senate (Order Nr. 091-029 of 7 October 1991 concerning the organic law on the election of senators) and municipal councils (Order Nr. 087-289 of 20 October 1987). These instruments were reinforced by the 2006 legislation on promoting the involvement of women in decision-making processes. This legislation imposed a quota of 20% for the representation of women on each municipal and legislative list. The Personal Status Code governs marriage, divorce, filiation and inheritance (marriage age set at a minimum of 18 years for boys and girls, marriage contract, right to continue one’s studies and to engage in professional activities). It contributes to the building of a modern society. B-Institutional framework The Ministry of social affairs, children and family matters is entrusted with the mission of promoting and protecting the rights of women and ensuring their full participation in decision making processes and in economic and social development. The MASEF is supported by:  The national committee on gender mainstreaming chaired by the Prime Minister and sector-based gender units;  The network of women ministers and parliamentarians in Mauritania;  The national committee to combat gender-based violence including FGM;  The CTIER;  MASEF regional coordination units;  The raining centre for women’s empowerment;  The training centre for early childhood development;  The centre for the social protection and integration of children;  The training centre for the social integration of children with disabilities. 49