Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women

Definition

The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) is an international treaty adopted by the United Nations in 1979 aimed at eliminating discrimination against women and promoting gender equality. It establishes a comprehensive framework for addressing the legal and social barriers that perpetuate gender inequality and encourages nations to take effective measures to advance women's rights across various domains, including political, economic, and social spheres.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CEDAW is often described as an international bill of rights for women, as it outlines specific obligations for states to eliminate discrimination and promote gender equality.
2. Countries that ratify CEDAW are required to submit periodic reports to the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women, detailing their progress in implementing the convention's provisions.
3. CEDAW addresses issues such as violence against women, reproductive health, education, and employment, making it a comprehensive tool for advocating women's rights.
4. The treaty has been ratified by over 180 countries, making it one of the most widely accepted human rights instruments in the world.
5. CEDAW's Article 2 specifically calls for states to adopt appropriate legislative and other measures to eliminate discrimination against women in all areas of life.

Review Questions

• How does CEDAW define discrimination against women and what are its implications for member states?
  • CEDAW defines discrimination against women as any distinction, exclusion, or restriction made on the basis of sex that impairs women's enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms. This definition implies that member states have a responsibility to actively eliminate any form of discrimination in law and practice. As a result, countries must assess their laws and policies to ensure they do not discriminate against women and must implement measures that promote gender equality.
• What role does CEDAW play in shaping national policies regarding women's rights and gender equality?
  • CEDAW plays a crucial role in shaping national policies by providing a framework for governments to assess their laws, regulations, and practices concerning women's rights. By ratifying CEDAW, countries commit to aligning their national legislation with its provisions, which often leads to reforms that improve women's access to education, health care, employment, and political participation. This framework empowers advocates for women's rights to hold their governments accountable for progress toward gender equality.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of CEDAW in advancing gender equality globally and identify challenges it faces.
  • CEDAW has been effective in raising awareness about women's rights and influencing legislation worldwide; however, its impact varies greatly across different regions due to cultural norms, political will, and resource availability. Despite its widespread ratification, challenges persist such as non-compliance by member states and lack of enforcement mechanisms. Additionally, resistance from traditional beliefs can hinder implementation efforts. Therefore, while CEDAW provides a vital framework for addressing gender inequality, ongoing advocacy and support are necessary to overcome these barriers.

Related terms

Gender Equality: The state of equal access to resources and opportunities regardless of gender, encompassing issues such as pay equity, representation in leadership, and reproductive rights.

Discrimination: The unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people, often based on characteristics such as race, age, or gender, leading to unequal opportunities and outcomes.

Human Rights: The basic rights and freedoms that belong to every person in the world, from birth until death, including the right to life, freedom of expression, and equality before the law.