often described as an international bill of rights for women adopted by the un general assembly. it defines the forms of discrimination against women and plans action on how to end it.
What is often described as an international bill of rights for women adopted by the UN General Assembly, and how does it define forms of discrimination against women and plan action to end it?
Answer:
The document you are referring to is the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1979. This convention is often described as an international bill of rights for women.
1. Overview of CEDAW:
- Adoption Date: 1979
- Purpose: To eliminate discrimination against women and ensure women’s equality in all aspects of life
- Structure: Consists of a preamble and 30 articles
2. Definition of Discrimination Against Women:
- According to CEDAW, discrimination against women is defined as:"Any distinction, exclusion or restriction made on the basis of sex which has the effect or purpose of impairing or nullifying the recognition, enjoyment or exercise by women, irrespective of their marital status, on a basis of equality of men and women, of human rights and fundamental freedoms in the political, economic, social, cultural, civil or any other field."
3. Key Provisions and Articles:
- Article 1: Defines discrimination against women
- Article 2: Obligates ratifying countries to adopt policies to eliminate discrimination
- Article 5: Encourages the modification of social and cultural patterns that lead to discrimination
- Article 11: Ensures equal employment rights for women
- Article 12: Guarantees equal access to health care services
- Article 16: Ensures equality in marriage and family life
4. Actions to End Discrimination:
- Legislative Measures: Countries are required to implement laws prohibiting discrimination
- Supportive Policies: Establishment of institutions to promote women’s rights
- Educational Campaigns: Awareness campaigns to change societal attitudes towards gender equality
- Monitoring and Reporting: Signatory countries are obliged to submit national reports on measures they have taken to comply with the convention
5. Implementation and Monitoring:
- Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women: An expert body that monitors the implementation of CEDAW through the examination of periodic reports submitted by states
Final Answer:
The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) is often described as an international bill of rights for women, adopted by the UN General Assembly. It defines discrimination against women as any act that impairs women’s equal enjoyment of rights and freedoms and outlines comprehensive policies and measures that countries must adopt to eliminate such discrimination and promote gender equality.