CEDAW: Understanding the International Bill of Rights for Women

CEDAW: The International Bill of Rights for Women

The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) is an international treaty adopted in 1979 by the UN General Assembly. Often described as an international bill of rights for women, it defines what constitutes discrimination against women and establishes an agenda for national action to end such practices. It was ratified by 189 states as of September 1981.

The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women

• The body that monitors the implementation of the CEDAW.
• Consists of 23 experts on women's rights from around the world.
• In January 2008, responsibility for servicing the CEDAW was transferred to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in Geneva, solidifying its status as a basic human right.

"...any distinction, exclusion or restriction made on the basis of sex with the effect or purpose of impairing or nullifying the recognition by women..."

Core Provisions of the Convention

Part I: Non-Discrimination and Stereotypes

• States condemn discrimination, agree to end it, and take necessary measures.
• Focuses on sex stereotypes and sex trafficking.

Part II: Public Sphere Rights

• States agree to take measures to end discrimination in political and public life and ensure equal terms.

Part III: Economic and Social Rights

• Describes the economic and social rights of women, including special protections for rural women.
• Covers the right to family benefits, bank loans, mortgages, and cultural life.

Part IV: Marriage and Legal Equality

• Outlines women's right to equality in marriage and family life, alongside the right to equality before the law.
• Ensures legal capacity identical to men, with the same opportunities and treatment.

Part V: Committee Establishment and Reporting

• States must submit a report to the UN Secretary-General on measures adopted to give effect to the provisions of the Convention.
• Reports are due within one year after entry into force for the state, and at least every four years thereafter.
• Reports may indicate factors and difficulties affecting the fulfillment of obligations.

Part VI: Administration and Commitment

• Describes the effects of the Convention on other treaties and the administration of the agreement.
• States must adopt all necessary measures at the national level to achieve the full realization of the rights recognized.
• The UN Secretary-General may request a revision at any time.

Status of Signatories

• USA and Palau: Signed but did not ratify the treaty.
• Egypt, Eritrea, Iraq, Lebanon, Kazakhstan, and Qatar: Signed and report annually to the Committee.