CEDAW Marks 45 Years as Global Pillar for Women’s Rights

As the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) reaches its 45th year in force, the United Nations is marking the milestone with a renewed call for global commitment to gender equality amid mounting political and social pressures worldwide.

For more than four decades, CEDAW has served as the cornerstone international treaty advancing women's rights, shaping reforms in national laws, public policy and institutional practice across the globe.

A Legal Framework Driving Change

Adopted by the UN General Assembly in 1979 and entering into force in 1981, CEDAW provides a legally binding framework requiring States parties to eliminate discrimination against women in all areas of life — including political participation, education, employment, health care and family relations.

Over 45 years, the Convention has:

• Influenced constitutional reforms

• Strengthened legal protections against gender-based violence

• Expanded women's access to education and employment

• Advanced equal rights in marriage and family law

• Elevated accountability for discrimination

The treaty remains one of the most widely ratified human rights instruments worldwide.

Call for Renewed Commitment

"At a time of mounting global pressures and political uncertainty, continued commitment to CEDAW is essential to safeguard progress on women's rights and accelerate equality," said Nahla Haidar, Chair of the CEDAW Committee.

UN officials warn that hard-won gains for women and girls are increasingly under strain from conflict, economic instability, democratic backsliding and resistance to gender equality initiatives.

Commemoration at the United Nations in Geneva

To mark the 45th anniversary, the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women will host an informal commemoration on 19 February 2026 at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.

The event will take place:

• Date: 19 February 2026

• Time: 13:15–14:45

• Venue: Salle des Pas Perdus, Palais des Nations (A-building, 3rd floor), Geneva

The commemoration is expected to bring together:

• Representatives of Permanent Missions to the UN in Geneva

• Civil society organisations

• Women leaders and human rights advocates

• Members of the press

Reflecting on Impact and Future Challenges

The event will provide a platform to:

• Highlight the Convention's transformative impact

• Discuss the mandate of the CEDAW Committee

• Reflect on key milestones over 45 years

• Address ongoing implementation gaps and emerging challenges

Organisers say the gathering aims to generate renewed momentum among States and stakeholders to strengthen implementation and uphold international commitments to gender equality.

Continuing Relevance in a Changing World

Despite significant progress, global disparities persist in political representation, economic opportunity, access to justice and protection from gender-based violence.

As CEDAW enters its fifth decade in force, the UN says its principles remain critical in ensuring substantive equality between women and men — particularly in an era of shifting political landscapes and global instability.

The anniversary event will serve not only as a commemoration, but as a call to action to reinforce international resolve in advancing women's rights worldwide.