The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) has released a draft general recommendation aimed at dismantling gender stereotypes and addressing the unequal power structures that sustain discrimination against women. The draft outlines the causes, forms, and impacts of gender stereotypes while examining their effects across key sectors such as education, employment, healthcare, public participation, technology, culture, and family life. It also details the responsibilities of governments and other actors in combating discrimination and promoting gender equality.
The International Service for Human Rights (ISHR) welcomed the draft recommendation and submitted comments emphasizing the need for stronger recognition and protection of women human rights defenders. According to ISHR, women defenders often face unique and heightened risks because of both their advocacy work and their gender, as well as other intersecting forms of discrimination.
ISHR highlighted that women human rights defenders are particularly vulnerable to gender-based attacks, including sexual violence, damage to their reputation, and criticism for challenging traditional gender roles. Many also face threats directed at their families due to stereotypes that assign women primary caregiving responsibilities. The organization recommended revising several sections of the draft recommendation to better reflect these realities.
Drawing on international human rights standards and the Declaration +25 initiative, ISHR urged CEDAW to recommend that governments adopt intersectional protection measures for women human rights defenders, prevent stigmatization, ensure access to justice, and eliminate harassment, reprisals, and other forms of retaliation against women and girls engaged in human rights work.
ISHR also stressed the importance of meaningful consultation with civil society organizations and women human rights defenders when developing policies and actions to address gender stereotypes. The organization argued that creating a safe and enabling environment for women defenders is essential to achieving the broader objective of eliminating discriminatory stereotypes and advancing gender equality worldwide.
The draft recommendation and accompanying stakeholder submissions are expected to contribute to stronger international standards for addressing gender discrimination, promoting women’s rights, and protecting those who advocate for social justice and human rights.
