Protecting Women: A Stand Against Gender-Based Violence

CEDAW Committee Rejects New Protocol on gender-Based violence, cites Risk to Existing Protections

The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) has issued a strong statement urging countries to uphold existing international human rights law, specifically rejecting proposals for a new optional protocol to CEDAW focused on gender-based violence. The committee argues that such an instrument, while seemingly aimed at strengthening protections, risks undermining the very foundations of rights already firmly established under international law.

In a statement adopted alongside its country reviews,the CEDAW Committee emphasized that any advancements in addressing gender-based violence must be “grounded in existing norms and standards.” This stance comes amidst a concerning global backlash against womenS rights, with evidence suggesting a significant regression in gender equality in numerous countries.

The Committee’s position is rooted in its understanding that gender-based violence is already encompassed within the scope of CEDAW. as far back as 1992, the Committee explicitly stated that “Gender-based violence is a form of discrimination that seriously inhibits women’s ability to enjoy rights and freedoms on a basis of equality with men.”

The CEDAW Committee warns that pursuing a new optional protocol could create a fragmented system of protection,leading to unequal treatment among States Parties and jeopardizing the existing guarantees provided by the Convention. “The Committee is convinced that a new optional protocol might create a parallel process that could undermine full accountability under the Convention.” The concern is that focusing on a new, potentially narrower, framework could dilute the comprehensive protections already offered by CEDAW.

This caution is particularly relevant given the alarming trend of regression in women’s rights worldwide.UN Women reported in 2024 that one in four countries is experiencing such setbacks. Examples include the rollback of reproductive rights in countries like Romania and the United States, and a discernible impact on women’s rights within international forums.Women’s rights are increasingly targeted by anti-rights campaigners and suffer from reduced funding, and a growing number of states are actively working to weaken existing protections.

Despite these challenges, women’s rights defenders globally continue to make progress by advocating for the robust application of international law, particularly CEDAW, to secure women’s right to equality. The CEDAW Committee’s call for careful attention to their statement underscores the critical need to leverage and reinforce the existing legal framework.”The principle of non-discrimination in the Convention covers gender-based violence against women and girls,” the Committee reiterates. The message is clear: the international instruments and their interpretations already provide a strong foundation. What is now urgently needed is for governments to fulfill their existing international legal obligations and take decisive action to end all forms of violence against women.

How does understanding the various forms of GBV (physical, sexual, psychological, economic) contribute to more effective prevention and intervention strategies?

Understanding Gender-Based Violence (GBV)

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a pervasive global issue rooted in gender inequality. It encompasses any act of violence that results in physical, sexual, psychological, or economic harm to women and girls. This isn’t simply a “women’s issue”; it’s a human rights issue with devastating consequences for individuals, families, and communities. Key terms often associated with GBV include domestic violence, sexual assault, harassment, trafficking, and harmful traditional practices like female genital mutilation (FGM) and forced marriage.

Understanding the different forms of GBV is crucial for effective prevention and intervention.

Physical Violence: Includes hitting, kicking, slapping, or any other physical harm.

Sexual Violence: Encompasses rape, sexual assault, and any unwanted sexual act.

Psychological Violence: Involves emotional abuse, threats, intimidation, and control.

Economic Violence: Controlling access to financial resources, preventing employment, or sabotaging economic independence.

The Impact of GBV on Women’s Health & Wellbeing

The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights the critical link between women’s health and gender equality. GBV has profound and lasting effects on a woman’s physical and mental health.

Here’s a breakdown of the health consequences:

physical Injuries: Broken bones, chronic pain, and disabilities.

Mental Health Issues: Depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and suicidal ideation.

Reproductive Health Problems: Unwanted pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and complications during pregnancy and childbirth.

Chronic Diseases: Increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions.

Beyond health, GBV hinders women’s educational and economic opportunities, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality. The 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and platform for Action underscores the slow progress in achieving gender equality, directly impacting women’s health and safety.

Legal Frameworks & international Efforts

Numerous international and national laws aim to prevent and address GBV.

The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW): An international treaty committing states to end discrimination against women.

The Istanbul Convention: A Council of Europe treaty focusing on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence. (Not universally ratified).

National Laws: Many countries have enacted laws criminalizing domestic violence, sexual assault, and other forms of GBV. However, enforcement remains a significant challenge.

Effective legislation must be coupled with robust implementation, including:

1. Training for law enforcement and judicial personnel: To ensure sensitive and effective responses to GBV cases.
2. Access to legal aid: Providing legal representation for survivors.
3. Protection orders: Offering immediate protection to those at risk.

Support Systems & Resources for Survivors

Access to support services is vital for survivors of GBV. These services can provide immediate safety, emotional support, and long-term recovery assistance.

Hotlines & Crisis Centers: Offer confidential support and referrals.(e.g.,National Domestic Violence Hotline,RAINN – Rape,Abuse & Incest National Network).

Shelters: Provide safe housing for women and children fleeing abusive situations.

Counseling & Therapy: Help survivors process trauma and develop coping mechanisms.

Legal Assistance: Provide guidance on legal rights and options.

Healthcare Services: Offer medical care and support for physical and mental health needs.

Prevention Strategies: Building a Safer Future

Preventing GBV requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the root causes of inequality and violence.

Education: Promoting gender equality in schools and communities. Challenging harmful gender stereotypes.

Economic Empowerment: Providing women with access to education, employment, and financial resources.

Community Mobilization: Engaging men and boys as allies in preventing GBV.

Addressing Harmful Social Norms: Challenging cultural practices that condone or normalize violence against women.

Early intervention Programs: Identifying and supporting individuals at risk of perpetrating or experiencing GBV.

The Role of Technology in Combating GBV

Technology can be a double-edged sword. While it can be used to perpetrate abuse (e.g., cyberstalking, online harassment), it can also be a powerful tool for prevention and support.

Safety Apps: Apps that allow users to discreetly alert emergency contacts or law enforcement.

Online Support Groups: Providing a safe space for survivors to connect and share experiences.

Digital Literacy Training: Empowering women to protect themselves online.

* Data Collection & Analysis: Using data to identify trends and patterns in GBV.

Real-World Example: Iceland’s Comprehensive Approach

iceland consistently ranks highly in global