Fact Sheet | Legislation | Take Action
The Convention to End All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) is the most comprehensive international agreement that addresses basic human rights of women. Created in 1979, CEDAW is regarded as the most important international mechanism for women’s equality. The treaty for the rights of women provides a universal standard for women’s human rights, regardless of culture or religion. It addresses discrimination in areas such as education, employment, marriage and family relations, health care, politics, finance and law. CEDAW provides a basis for ensuring that basic human rights are universal for women, regardless of culture or religion.
In its 30 years of existence, CEDAW has provided a vehicle for countries to overcome barriers of discrimination. With 186 ratifications, it is the second-most widely ratified human rights treaty.
The U.S. is one of seven countries that have not ratified CEDAW. Other countries that have not ratified it include Iran, Somalia, Sudan and three Pacific Island Countries. The failure of the U.S. to ratify the treaty allows countries that have weak human rights records to continue to neglect and undermine human rights for women. Until the U.S. ratifies CEDAW, our country cannot credibly demand that other countries live up to their obligations under the treaty.
The treaty has created a platform for activists to advocate for change in their national institutions to protect themselves from discrimination. Because of the CEDAW Treaty, millions of girls who were previously denied access to education are now receiving primary education; measures have been taken against sex slavery, domestic violence and the trafficking of women; women’s health care services have improved, helping save lives during pregnancy and childbirth; and millions of women have secured loans or the right to own or inherit property.
Around the world, the status and rights of women are linked to a broad array of critical global issues including disease prevention, democratization, poverty reduction, environmental protection and economic development and growth. CEDAW helps women and girls lead healthier, more secure lives.
The United States an opportunity to demonstrate its leadership and commitment to the goal of advancing opportunities and rights for women around the world by ratifying the treaty for the rights of women.
YWCA Position
YWCA supports U.S. ratification of CEDAW. YWCA supports measures to ensure human rights for women and girls around the world.
