CEDAW

Definition

CEDAW, or the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, is an international treaty adopted by the United Nations in 1979 aimed at promoting and ensuring women's rights across various aspects of life. It serves as a comprehensive framework for addressing discrimination against women and establishes obligations for countries to eliminate such discrimination, emphasizing the need for equality in social, political, economic, and cultural spheres. This convention plays a vital role in shaping policies and movements focused on addressing violence against women globally.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CEDAW is often referred to as an international bill of rights for women and addresses issues like violence, trafficking, and education.
2. The convention requires state parties to take appropriate measures to eliminate discrimination against women in all forms, including enacting and enforcing laws that protect women's rights.
3. CEDAW has been ratified by over 180 countries, demonstrating widespread international support for its principles, although some countries have made reservations on specific articles.
4. The committee established by CEDAW monitors compliance by reviewing reports submitted by state parties every four years, assessing progress made towards eliminating discrimination.
5. Despite its significance, challenges remain in implementing CEDAW fully due to cultural norms, lack of political will, and inadequate legal frameworks in some countries.

Review Questions

• How does CEDAW address violence against women and what obligations does it impose on member states?
  • CEDAW directly addresses violence against women by recognizing it as a form of discrimination that must be eliminated. It obliges member states to take appropriate legislative and other measures to prevent and punish acts of violence against women. This includes creating legal frameworks that protect women's rights and implementing policies that provide support services for survivors of violence.
• In what ways has CEDAW influenced national policies on women's rights across different countries?
  • CEDAW has significantly influenced national policies by encouraging countries to review and amend their laws related to gender equality and women's rights. Many nations have incorporated CEDAW's principles into their legal systems, leading to the establishment of laws that combat domestic violence, improve women's access to education and healthcare, and promote equal opportunities in employment. As a result, CEDAW has become a pivotal tool for advocates seeking to hold governments accountable for upholding women's rights.
• Evaluate the impact of CEDAW on global movements advocating for the elimination of discrimination against women.
  • CEDAW has had a profound impact on global movements advocating for women's rights by providing a universal framework for action. It has empowered activists and organizations to demand accountability from governments regarding their commitments to gender equality. The convention has facilitated cross-border collaborations among women's rights groups, leading to collective efforts aimed at addressing issues like gender-based violence and discrimination. The success of these movements can often be traced back to the standards set forth by CEDAW, which continue to inspire advocacy at local, national, and international levels.

Related terms

Gender Equality: The state in which access to rights or opportunities is unaffected by gender, advocating for equal treatment and opportunities for all genders.

Violence Against Women: Any act of gender-based violence that results in physical, sexual, or psychological harm or suffering to women, including threats of such acts.

Women's Rights: The rights that promote a position of legal and social equality of women with men, encompassing various civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights.