CEDAW - Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women

The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 18 December 1979. Belgium ratified CEDAW on 10 July 1985 and the Optional Protocol in 2004.

The Convention defines what constitutes discrimination against women and sets out an agenda/action plan for national measures to end such discrimination. The CEDAW Committee monitors compliance with the Convention.

States Parties to CEDAW are assessed in an evaluation cycle:

1. State report + alternative reports from civil society
   Member States that are parties to CEDAW must, whenever the CEDAW Committee requests it, submit a report to the Committee. This report must explain the measures the State is taking to fulfil its obligations under CEDAW. In addition, civil society may submit alternative reports.
2. Concluding observations of the CEDAW Committee
   On the basis of these reports, the CEDAW Committee issues its concluding observations.

Further information: UN Treaty Body Database