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 that aims to eliminate discrimination against women and promote gender equality worldwide. It outlines various rights for women and obligates signatory countries to take appropriate measures to ensure these rights are realized, influencing policies and initiatives globally. The convention acts as a crucial framework for advancing gender equality policies and serves as a foundation for many successful social movements advocating for women's rights.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CEDAW has been ratified by over 180 countries, making it one of the most widely accepted human rights treaties in the world.
2. The convention covers various areas including political participation, education, employment, health care, and family life, providing a comprehensive approach to women's rights.
3. States that ratify CEDAW are required to submit regular reports on their progress towards implementing the treaty's provisions.
4. CEDAW has led to significant legal reforms in many countries aimed at improving women's rights and combating discrimination.
5. The convention is often referenced in social movements advocating for women's rights, serving as both a guideline and a source of legitimacy for activists.

Review Questions

• How does CEDAW influence national policies aimed at promoting gender equality?
  • CEDAW influences national policies by providing a comprehensive framework that signatory countries are obligated to follow. This includes enacting laws that address discrimination against women in various sectors such as education, health care, and employment. By setting clear guidelines and requiring regular reporting on progress, CEDAW encourages governments to develop specific programs and initiatives focused on achieving gender equality.
• Discuss the role of CEDAW in shaping successful social movements for women's rights around the world.
  • CEDAW plays a crucial role in shaping successful social movements for women's rights by offering a recognized international standard against which countries can be held accountable. Activists use the provisions of the convention as leverage when advocating for reforms, empowering movements to demand change based on established human rights principles. This has led to increased public awareness and political pressure on governments to address issues such as violence against women and economic inequality.
• Evaluate the impact of CEDAW on global perceptions of women's rights and gender equality since its adoption in 1979.
  • Since its adoption in 1979, CEDAW has significantly shifted global perceptions of women's rights and gender equality by framing these issues as fundamental human rights. The treaty has fostered greater awareness and understanding of discrimination against women, prompting discussions about gender roles in various cultural contexts. As nations implement CEDAW's provisions, there is an increasing recognition that gender equality is essential for social justice and sustainable development, ultimately changing how societies view women's contributions and rights.

Related terms

Gender Equality: The state of equal access to resources and opportunities regardless of gender, including economic participation and decision-making.

Women's Rights: The rights that promote a position of legal and social equality of women with men.

UN Women: A United Nations entity dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women, focusing on policy-making, advocacy, and support for women's rights initiatives.