Key Treaties and Texts
CEDAW Convention

Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women

International Conventions and Declarations

G.A. res. 34/180, 34 U.N. GAOR Supp. (No. 46) at 193, U.N. Doc. A/34/46

The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (the "Women's Convention") was adopted by the UN General Assembly on December 18, 1979 and entered into force September 3, 1981, in accordance with article 27(1). CEDAW is the main international instrument that recognizes and protects the rights of women. In 2000 the Optional Protocol to the Women's Convention that provides for two complaints procedures (communication and inquiry) entered into force. Ratification information on the Women's Convention is also available at the end of the Convention's text.