UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women

The UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) is an international treaty that encourages countries to end discrimination against women in all areas of life—such as voting, work, education, and health. It sets out rights for women and aims to promote equality between women and men. Countries that sign and follow it commit to creating laws and policies that eliminate unfair treatment and ensure women have the same opportunities and protections as men. CEDAW is a global effort to advance women’s rights and achieve gender equality worldwide.