CEDAW: Promoting Women's Human Rights
The Treaty for the Rights of Women
The Baha'i writings emphasize that the progress of civilization depends upon women being actively involved in the political, social, and economic life of their communities.
As such, Baha'i institutions actively support the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), often described as a “bill of rights” for women.
What is CEDAW and why is it important?
CEDAW, also referred to as the "Treaty for the Rights of Women," is the first and only international instrument to comprehensively address women’s rights within political, cultural, economic, social and family life.
How have the U.S. Baha'is supported CEDAW?
Representatives of the Baha’is of the United States have been active members of the U.S.-based CEDAW Working Group since its inception, and served as co-chairs for 10 years. This network of more than 100 national organizations advocates for U.S. ratification of CEDAW.
In 2001, the office compiled and edited the Rights That Benefit the Entire Community booklet, a CEDAW education and advocacy tool. More than 15,000 copies were distributed to the public and members of Congress. A second expanded edition of the book was published in spring 2004. (SEE BELOW)
What is the current status of CEDAW?
As of early 2012, 187 countries (out of 193) have ratified CEDAW. The United States is not on that list, even though the country participated in drafting the treaty, and President Jimmy Carter signed it and sent it to the U.S. Senate for advice and consent in 1980.
U.S. ratification of CEDAW would require the assent of two-thirds of the Senate.
How can I get involved?
Visit the CEDAW website: http://www.cedaw2011.org/
Download and read CEDAW: Rights That Benefit the Entire Community
CEDAW Action Alerts
We strongly believe that the achievement of full equality between the sexes is one of the most important (though less acknowledged) prerequisites for peace. Indeed, only when women participate fully and equally in the affairs of the world – and enter confidently and capably the arenas of laws and government – will wars cease. The Bahá’í International Community has been consistently working for the emancipation of women, both through strengthening the UN’s gender mechanisms and through supporting the programs and implementation efforts of its national affiliates in this field.
— Baha'i International Community