Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW)

Definition

CEDAW is an international treaty adopted by the United Nations in 1979 aimed at eliminating discrimination against women in all forms. The convention outlines various rights and protections for women, promoting gender equality and empowering women in political, economic, social, and cultural fields. It serves as a crucial framework for governments to assess their progress and commitments to women's rights globally.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CEDAW is often referred to as the 'international bill of rights for women' due to its comprehensive approach to women's rights.
2. The convention has been ratified by over 180 countries, making it one of the most widely accepted human rights treaties.
3. CEDAW requires countries to submit regular reports on their progress towards implementing the treaty's provisions, which helps hold governments accountable.
4. The treaty addresses not only legal discrimination but also cultural and social practices that perpetuate gender inequality.
5. CEDAW emphasizes the importance of women's participation in decision-making processes at all levels, recognizing this as essential for achieving gender equality.

Review Questions

• How does CEDAW address the issue of cultural practices that may conflict with women's rights?
  • CEDAW recognizes that cultural practices can often lead to discrimination against women. The convention explicitly calls on countries to eliminate customs and traditions that undermine women's rights, emphasizing the need for legal frameworks that promote gender equality. By encouraging dialogue around cultural norms and their impact on women's rights, CEDAW seeks to challenge and change discriminatory practices while respecting cultural diversity.
• In what ways does CEDAW hold governments accountable for promoting women's rights?
  • CEDAW holds governments accountable through a reporting mechanism where signatory countries must submit periodic reports detailing their efforts to implement the treaty's provisions. This accountability framework allows for international scrutiny and encourages states to take concrete actions toward achieving gender equality. The committee reviews these reports, providing recommendations and observations to guide improvements in women's rights practices.
• Evaluate the impact of CEDAW on global efforts towards achieving gender equality since its adoption.
  • Since its adoption in 1979, CEDAW has significantly influenced global efforts towards achieving gender equality by establishing a comprehensive framework for assessing women's rights. The convention has spurred legislative changes in many countries, leading to improved legal protections for women. Moreover, CEDAW has mobilized civil society organizations and activists worldwide to advocate for women's rights, demonstrating its role as a catalyst for social change and raising awareness about gender-based discrimination across cultures.

Related terms

Gender Equality: The state in which access to rights or opportunities is unaffected by gender, ensuring that men and women have equal rights and responsibilities.

Discrimination:

Unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people, often based on characteristics such as race, age, or gender.

Women's Rights: Rights that promote a position of legal and social equality of women with men, including but not limited to reproductive rights, right to education, and protection against violence.