By ratifying the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) in 1981, Canada committed itself to removing the obstacles that prevent women from achieving full gender equality. Lawyers Without Borders Canada (LWB Canada) is seizing the opportunity provided by the international evaluation of Canada’s progress to submit a report containing a number of recommendations to the Canadian government for better fulfillment of its international commitments.
The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) is an instrument of international law that obliges States Parties to adopt effective measures to combat all forms of discrimination, create a legal framework conducive to gender equality, and take active steps to promote women’s rights in all aspects of society.
All States parties to the Convention are required to submit periodic reports to the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW Committee), a committee of independent experts responsible for monitoring implementation of the Convention. The Committee examines States’ reports, raises concerns and makes recommendations to States parties. To enhance the discussion and evaluation of the implementation of States Parties’ obligations, civil society organizations are invited to submit parallel reports outlining their views on the implementation of the articles of the Convention.
Lawyers Without Borders Canada is pleased to participate in this process by submitting this report containing a number of recommendations to the Canadian government for greater compliance with its international commitments.