The Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in  the year ________.

The correct answer is 1979.

Key Points

• The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) was adopted on 18 December 1979 by the United Nations General Assembly.
• It is often described as an international bill of rights for women and focuses on ensuring gender equality and women’s empowerment globally.
• CEDAW entered into force as an international treaty on 3 September 1981, after the 20th ratification.
• As of 2023, 189 countries have ratified or acceded to CEDAW, making it a widely accepted international treaty.
• India ratified the CEDAW treaty on 9 July 1993, committing to eliminate gender-based discrimination in all forms.

Additional Information

• Key Provisions of CEDAW:
  • CEDAW emphasizes the elimination of discrimination against women in political, economic, social, cultural, and civil spheres.
  • It obligates member states to take legislative and administrative measures to ensure women’s equality.
  • It advocates for the elimination of stereotypes and harmful practices that perpetuate gender inequality.
• CEDAW Committee:
  • The implementation of CEDAW is monitored by the CEDAW Committee, which is composed of 23 experts on women's rights.
  • Member states are required to submit periodic reports to the committee on their progress in implementing the treaty.
• Optional Protocol to CEDAW:
  • An Optional Protocol to CEDAW was adopted in 1999, providing a mechanism for individual complaints and inquiries into systematic violations of women's rights.
  • It allows women or groups to file complaints directly with the CEDAW Committee if their rights under the Convention are violated.
• Global Impact:
  • CEDAW has played a critical role in shaping national policies and laws that promote gender equality and combat discrimination globally.
  • It has inspired movements and initiatives advocating for women's rights in areas like education, employment, health, and political participation.