August 25, 2006

Ask Amnesty: Join Us for an Online Discussion on Securing Equality and Justice for Women

At least 183 countries have helped women worldwide to secure equality and justice by ratifying the Treaty for the Rights of Women. Only one country in the Americas has not: the United States.

Why is this so? To find out, join us for an online discussion this Friday, August 25th at 12:00 p.m. EST with Treaty expert Sara Albert. Learn more about the United States' failure to ratify this treaty. And find out how you can convince Congress to support the Treaty for the Rights of Women. Learn more: Treaty for the Rights of Women (CEDAW) | Support the ratification of CEDAW

Featured Guest: Sarah C. Albert

From our featured guest: "I look forward to speaking to you on August 25th."

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Question Submitted by Arlene:

If Mexico has signed the Treaty, why haven't they solved, over a course of many years, the ongoing serial murders of about 200 women in the City of Juarez?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

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Question Submitted by Kimberly:

Ms. Albert, Frequently, when the subject of women's rights comes up, the religious community (all stripes) rally around their particular religious documents as if protecting women were the greatest possible threat to their religious faith. I'm not an expert in world religion and find it difficult to respond to religious or "faith-based" arguments. How do you respond? Kimberly

Sarah C. Albert answers:

Good afternoon.

I would like to begin by thanking Amnesty International for inviting me here today.

I would also like thank those who submitted questions. Thank you for your interest in this treaty. I will work to answer as many as I can.

I would like to begin by answering the question about Mexico. It is a difficult question to answer.

Mexico was one of the first countries to sign CEDAW and later ratified it in 1981. Since that time, Mexico has worked to improve areas of equality especially in the areas of employment, education and health care. For instance, Mexico instituted a program addressing teenage pregnancy. Since the program’s inception more than 20 years ago, teenage pregnancy rates have been reduced by 70%. Literacy rates have increased for both men and women. Also, Mexico has seen greater civic participation since ratifying CEDAW with more women voting and being elected to office.

Since ratification Mexico created the National Programme to Combat Domestic Violence (PRONAVI) to raise awareness about violence against women and the Commission for Women to review laws and practices affecting women.

Yet, according to the CEDAW Committee, Mexico still has not sufficiently created federal legal remedies for violence against women. Mexico does not have a federal law regarding domestic violence and instead has a patchwork of state regulations. The federal government has taken initiatives to promote uniformity in these laws.

Separately, Mexican Ambassador and legal scholar, Aida Gonzalez Martinez has contributed significantly to efforts related to CEDAW. She has cited the treaty as, “The most important legally binding instrument that addresses the equality of women.”


For the question regarding religion - this is another good question.

As a matter of fact, there are a number of religious groups that support ratification of
the Treaty for the Rights of Women. The Working Group is comprised of over 200 non-governmental organizations engaged in outreach efforts and public education to achieve United States ratification of the Treaty for the Rights of Women. Groups represented include religious, civic, women’s, professional, educational, and international organizations. Together, our organizations support U.S. ratification of the Treaty for the Rights of Women.

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Question Submitted by Charles:

why hasn't the United States ratified the treaty yet?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

Unfortunately, tt is not uncommon for the U.S. to take several years to consider treaties.

CEDAW’s provisions are consistent with U.S. law and include rights that many American women take for granted. These rights include as access to education, legal redress against domestic violence, and access to health care.

Lack of U.S. ratification has dampened our country’s leadership in promoting human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. During Senate hearings in 2002, Yale Law School Dean Hongju Koh noted, “Lack of U.S. ratification has hindered our role as a human rights leader, damaged our diplomatic relations, and reduced our international standing.”

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Question Submitted by Beth:

What can American women do to put pressure on the Bush administration to sign on to the Treaty for the Rights of Women? Failing that, what else can we do to show our support for this treaty?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

There are many things one can do to support ratification efforts.

Supporters have been asked to contact the White House and their Senators and call for immediate ratification.

In the last several years, the Administration and numerous Senators have expressed their strong personal respect for women and their commitment to supporting women’s full and meaningful participation in the governance and development of emerging democracies, particularly in Afghanistan and Iraq. It is now critical that our leaders underscore that commitment—and send an unequivocal signal that this nation remains the world’s leader in championing human rights and the rule of law—by putting our government on record in support of the treaty. Such a statement would be the most concrete and universally recognized expression of support and respect for women that the United States could make at this time.
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Question Submitted by Laurence:

What are the official reasons that the United States will not ratify the treaty?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

The U.S. has a bipartisan tradition of supporting international standards through treaties, but efforts to ratify the Treaty for the Rights of Women have failed due to lack of political will. There is no reason for the U.S. not to ratify this treaty. Its principles are longtime mainstays of U.S. law and custom. Ratification will expand our country’s role in protecting and strengthening women’s rights.



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Question Submitted by Lisa:

I am very outraged that the U.S. has not ratified this treaty! Is it because of the current administration in power?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

Human rights is not a partisan issue.

However, this administration has not actively supported ratification.
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Question Submitted by Carol Teicher:

Is the failure to ratify a partisan issue or an all-around ignorance issue?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

Lack of U.S. ratification sends the unwelcome signal to other countries that have already signed onto the treaty that they need not take U.S. commitment seriously.

The United States should strive to be a leader and set an example for the rest of the world in our commitment to women and expanding women’s human rights.

Ratification would give the United States an opportunity to demonstrate its leadership and commitment to the goal of advancing opportunities and rights for women around the world.

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Question Submitted by Chandra:

Who can I write to as often as possible about this problem?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

In addition to contacting the President and your Senators about ratification, consider writing a letter to the editor of your local newspaper about CEDAW.
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Question Submitted by Denise:

I would like to know more about this treaty.

Sarah C. Albert answers:

The Treaty for the Rights of Women is the culmination of more than 30 years of work by the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women and its member countries. The call for such a treaty emerged from the First World Conference on Women in Mexico City in 1975 and was unanimously adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1979. The creation of this treaty was the first critical step in developing a standard for basic human rights for women. Previously there was no document that comprehensively addressed women's basic human rights within political, legal, economic, cultural, social, and family life.
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Question Submitted by Beth:

I would like to read more information on what the treaty consists of. Where is that available?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

A summary of the treaty provisions can be found on the website for the Working Group for the Ratification of CEDAW (www.womenstreaty.org).

Information about the treaty, can be found in the Working Group's book, Human Rights for All.

Also, the United Nations is a good source of information. A good website is: http://www.un.org/womenwatch/daw/cedaw/.
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Question Submitted by cecelia bowman:

I am unfamiliar with the different areas covered in this agreement. Please send me information on what is involved. Thank you.

Sarah C. Albert answers:

CEDAW, the U.N. Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, is a blue print for the most basic human rights for women and girls. This includes things that women in America take for granted – such as the right to a basic education, legal redress against domestic violence and access to basic health care. When describing the treaty Congressman Lynn Woolsey of California noted, “CEDAW is about women being able to exercise the same human rights as men.”

The Treaty for the Rights of Women has been used to incorporate women’s rights into national constitutions, eliminate discriminatory laws, and influence court decisions. Measures have been taken against sex slavery, domestic violence and the trafficking of women. Women's health care services have improved, saving lives during pregnancy and childbirth. Millions of women have secured loans and gained the right to own and inherit property.
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Question Submitted by Katie:

Does this treaty support abortion?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

No, CEDAW does not take a position on this issue and according to the State Department is “abortion neutral.” Whether one is pro-choice or pro-life, one cannot use this treaty to further their beliefs. Countries where abortion is illegal, such as Ireland and Rwanda, or strictly limited, such as Central American Countries, have all ratified this treaty with no changes to their abortion laws.

Many of the U.S. organizations that support ratification do not have a position on aboriton.
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Question Submitted by Ann:

Given the US poor history of supporting CEDAW, is there any reason to think now would be any different? What are the political gains to be had by pushing this issue now?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

The United States should strive to be a leader and set an example for the rest of the world in our commitment to women and expanding women’s human rights.

We are in an embarrassing position. 184 countries have ratified CEDAW, making it the second most ratified human rights treaty.

Lack of U.S. leadership has hurt our diplomacy.

Ratification would give the United States an opportunity to demonstrate its leadership and commitment to the goal of advancing opportunities and rights for women around the world.

When speaking about lack of ratification Senator Joesph Biden said, “Our silence on this issue is devastating.”
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Question Submitted by Johanna:

Ms. Albert, thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule for us. My question is: If the Treaty was to be ratified by the US, what could we do as citizens to make sure the Treaty is enforced in the US?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

Another good question.

U.S. ratification would greatly enhance efforts in promoting democracy and the rule of law.

The treaty established a monitoring system, the CEDAW Committee, which reviews and monitors the progress of member states. Though the treaty provisions are non-binding, this monitoring process has proven valuable in enforcing the scope and spirit of CEDAW by advancing social and political awareness.

After ratification, the U.S. would submit reports about its use of teh treaty.

This is a common practice and was recently done for the Treaty on Civil and Political Rights.

CEDAW’s goals are basic and universal.
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Question Submitted by ChenziRa:

What is required of the community of women in the US to encourage our US Congress & other officials to take a proactive stand and role in the realization of ratifying this Treaty for the Rights of Women? Essence--what can we women within the US' outlying territories (like where I am in the US Virgin Islands) do to facilitate "our" governments positive support and corrective course of action?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

In addition to contacting the White House, Senators and your local newspaper about ratification, consider pursuing a local resolution.

Throughout the United States, cities, counties and states have passed resolutions calling for the U.S. to ratify CEDAW. A complete list can be viewed on the Working Group website (womenstreaty.org).
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Question Submitted by Kendall:

Sadly, this is not the only U.N. supported treaty that the US has not signed in the last decade, nor will it be the last. Why the intransigence?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

One common argument against ratification of CEDAW and other human rights treaties including the Convention on the Rights of the Child relates to sovereignty.

Opponents have warned that once ratified, this treaty would usurp the power of the U.S. Constitution and our federal laws. This is simply not true. The U.S. Constitution will firmly remain the law of the land. Further, the U.S. has ratified several human rights treaties in the past 20 years with no sovereignty issues.
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Question Submitted by Mark Richard Wheeler:

Is there an official reason for why we haven't signed this treaty? Is there any good reason (official or otherwise) for not signing this treaty?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

In the U.S., the treaty was signed by President Carter in 1980. In 1994, hearings were held and it was voted favorably out of committee by a 13-5 margin. The vote occurred in the last days of the Congressional Session and the full Senate never considered it.

The Treaty for the Rights of Women was again considered in 2002. Hearings were held in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and the treaty was voted favorably out of Committee for a second time by a 12-7 margin. But once again the full Senate failed to consider it. The treaty reverted back to the committee where it remains today.

In its over 25 years, CEDAW has provided a vehicle for ratifying countries to overcome barriers of discrimination. Its 184 ratifications make it the second most widely ratified human rights treaty.
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Question Submitted by Jennifer Young:

Why is it that our own US government appears to be more concerned with protecting the people in Iraq - than in fighting for equality and justice for women, here - and around the world? Also, since violence and inequality are often leave life-long scars on women, how can something like a treaty help these women heal - and prevent future women from experiencing further injustice?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

Most women in developing societies struggle daily in the face of violence, poverty, lack of legal status, and the inability to be civically active.

Often called an international "Bill of Rights" for women, CEDAW is the culmination of more than 30 years of work by the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women and its member countries. The creation of this treaty was the first critical step in developing a standard for basic human rights for women. These standards address physical, sexual, economic, and political abuses against women and promote women's equality of rights and well-being.

Because the U.S. has not ratified this treaty, our efforts in other countries are limited when promoting the most basic human rights for women and girls.
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Question Submitted by Frank Cassianna:

What can I do through cyber-activism. I am poor and have not money,due to disability since 1999. But, I have convictions and the use of a computer and words. Thank you for asking for my help.Frank

Sarah C. Albert answers:

Again, I would contact the White House and your Senators.

Remember when you contact your Senators to give your full name and street address. Also, ask for a written response. This way you know that your letter has been read and your Senator's office knows that you are a constituent.
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Question Submitted by Kerry:

Does George want us to wear Burqas to polling stations?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

Well, I sure hope not.
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Question Submitted by Maddy:

Do you think that even with people like Condolezza Rice in such high positions of power, that there is still a culture of misogyny among the Republican party, which might be why this treaty has not been ratified?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

The issue of human rights is not partisan. Both parties have a strong record of supporting human rights treaties.

President Reagan was the first U.S. President to break the "log-jam" of treaties pending in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. (Some treaties had been pending for 40 years.)

In a speech, Reagan cited treaties as an important tool for U.S. diplomacy. During the next several years, several important human rights treaties were ratified.
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Question Submitted by Susan Kranyik:

How does the U.N. plan to implement this treaty...how would it be enforced?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

The treaty established a monitoring system, the CEDAW Committee, which reviews and monitors the progress of member states. Though the treaty provisions are non-binding, this monitoring process has proven valuable in enforcing the scope and spirit of CEDAW by advancing social and political awareness.

The Committee is comprised of 23 members.

Because the U.S. has not ratified this treaty, we are excluded from participating.
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Question Submitted by Janine:

The U.S. Consitution protects the rights of women.

Sarah C. Albert answers:

Actually, the only constitutional guarantee women hold is the right to vote.

All other protections can be changed as laws are changed. Over the past few years, we have seen changes to Title IX and practices regarding access to contraceptives.

Remember, we have not ratified the Equal Rights Amendment.
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Question Submitted by Prof. Bartholomew Dean:

For those of us in the academy, what advice to you have for mobilizing student support for the Ratification of the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW)? Bartholomew Dean Associate Professor & Curator, Department of Anthropology University of Kansas Lawence, KS 66044 785-864-2648

Sarah C. Albert answers:

Amnesty International is a fantastic organization for organizing those committed to improving human rights.

Information about Amnesty's efforts on CEDAW can be viewed at www.amnestyusa.org/cedaw/
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Question Submitted by Antonia:

How does the American government's history with Women's Rights influence the current attitude toward The Treaty for the Rights of Women?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

Another very good question.

Many of the erroneous arguments used against ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment have been used against CEDAW ratification.

Each of these arguments have been dismissed.

The U.S. Congressional Research Service has conducted two studies regarding CEDAW. Both showed that U.S. laws are already in compliance with the treaty.

We could ratify this treaty tomorrow without changing a law or spending a dime.
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Question Submitted by Renee:

After the treaty is signed by a country, how is it monitored to make sure they are upholding the agreement? What happens if a country is found in noncompliance?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

The treaty has a monitoring system, the CEDAW Committee, which reviews and monitors the progress of member states.

Each country is required to write a report about the status of women the first year after ratification. Additional reports are due every four years thereafter.

The committee members, who are legal experts, review the reports and make recommendations.

The Treaty for the Rights of Women has served as a valuable tool for creating a dialogue and awareness of women’s basic human rights. The treaty has created a platform for activists to advocate for change in their national institutions to protect themselves from discrimination. Senator Joe Biden noted, “CEDAW empowers women in other nations by enabling them to bring national attention and point to an international standard of human rights for the treatment of women.”
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Question Submitted by Jill Christianson:

Rather than a question, this is an appreciation... Sarah, your leadership on the U.S. Ratification of CEDAW continues to be so valuable, thank you. The National Education Association supports the ratification of the women's treaty. With the efforts of the General Federation of Women's Clubs, and many other committed organizations and individuals - on both sides of the aisle - we can and will ratify this human rights treaty.

Sarah C. Albert answers:

Wow - thank you for your kind note.

There are many fantastic organizations who have worked extensively on ratification. The National Education Association has worked on CEDAW for well over ten years.
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Question Submitted by Shandie:

I was shocked to find out that the United States has yet to ratify a Treaty for the Rights of Women!! I would like to know what is currently being done to ensure the United States does in fact ratify the Treaty, and the timeline in which this is expected to be completed?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

Please turn that shock into action.

We are in an embarrasing position. Lack of ratification is hurting our efforts to promote basic human rights both at home and abroad.

Please contact your Senators and the White House.
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Question Submitted by Heather:

I worked on this treaty in the U.S. in 1996, but it seems to me that it is not doing any good if countries like Saudi Arabia are allowed to ratify it, but are not considered to be in violation. In Saudi Arabia women are not even allowed to vote, or to walk alone on the street without a male accompanying them. What good is this treaty doing for women if there is no enforcement? As to the U.S., we e are not likely to ratify it because it would show us to be total hypocrites. Our entire international standing rests on maintaining our public image through lies and manipulation, and this would call us out.

Sarah C. Albert answers:

U.S. failure to ratify the treaty allows countries that have weak human rights records to neglect and undermine human rights for women. Until the U.S. ratifies the Treaty for the Rights of Women, our country cannot credibly demand that others live up to their obligations under the treaty.

Our country’s actions and policies have far-reaching consequences in signaling issue priorities and basic standards for women’s rights to other countries and to the international community.

Around the world, the status and rights of women are linked to a broad array of critical global issues including disease prevention, democratization, poverty reduction, environmental protection and economic development and growth. CEDAW is about helping women and girls lead healthier, more secure lives.

The U.S. should strive to be a leader and set an example for the rest of the world in its commitment to women and expanding women’s rights. U.S. ratification of the Treaty for the Rights of Women is long overdue.
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Question Submitted by Kory:

What role does the "Patriot Act" play in the refusal of the US to sign and adopt the spirit and law of this Agreement ?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

To the best of my knowledge, the Patriot Act does not play into the U.S. not ratifying CEDAW.

This treaty deals with the most basic human rights for women and girls.

CEDAW's principles are long time mainstays of U.S. law and custom.

It's provisions are consistent with our laws.
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Question Submitted by cristina:

Cómo y qué podemos hacer para que USA firme ese tratado?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

I am embarrassed to admit, but my Spanish skills are not very good. I will give a translation (I hope this is it) and then my response in English. I apologize for being unable to respond in Spanish.

The question is: How and what we can do so that the USA sign that treaty?


Again, please contact the White House and your Senators. It is very important that they hear from you.
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Question Submitted by Srey:

How is that United States being viewed by other countries as the world leaders, and we still lack behind in this particular area? What can I do to help? Thank you!

Sarah C. Albert answers:

CEDAW provides a proven foundation. Consideration of the treaty is a valuable process that draws international attention to human rights.

Lack of U.S. ratification sends the unwelcome signal to other countries that have already signed onto the treaty that they need not take U.S. commitment seriously.

The United States should strive to be a leader and set an example for the rest of the world in our commitment to women and expanding women’s human rights.

Ratification would give the United States an opportunity to demonstrate its leadership and commitment to the goal of advancing opportunities and rights for women around the world.

For more information about the treaty, please visit www.womenstreaty.org or www.amnestyusa.org/cedaw/.

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Question Submitted by Shani:

Sometimes me and my family feel helpless. What steps do US citizens need to do to help convince to US to secure equality and justice by ratifying the Treaty for the Rights of Women?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

Please don't feel helpless.

We are all part of this process and we need to all be involved.
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Question Submitted by Barbara:

One criticism I've read of the CEDAW is that it is essentially meaningless, that there are countries who have signed it just to look good but with no intention of ever raising the legal status of their female citizens. Some Americans feel that it is a mockery for us to join signataries like Saudi Arabia (where women are forbidden to drive), Niger (women subjected to stoning for adultery), and India (widows submitted to injustices and even death). How would you respond?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

CEDAW’s value is not only in the content of the treaty itself, but also in the exercise of discussing, considering and striving to live up to its basic and universally defined human rights. The treat for the Rights of Women is not just a product but also a process.

CEDAW provides a proven foundation. Consideration of the treaty is a valuable process that draws international attention to human rights.

As I noted before, lack of U.S. ratification sends the unwelcome signal to other countries that have already signed onto the treaty that they need not take U.S. commitment seriously.

In its over 25 years, CEDAW has provided a vehicle for ratifying countries to overcome barriers of discrimination.

The Treaty for the Rights of Women has been used to incorporate women’s rights into national constitutions, eliminate discriminatory laws, and influence court decisions. Measures have been taken against sex slavery, domestic violence and the trafficking of women. Women's health care services have improved, saving lives during pregnancy and childbirth. Millions of women have secured loans and gained the right to own and inherit property.
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Question Submitted by Dolores:

Does the treaty in some way limit basic rights in the US? Will the US gov. seeming softening on the World Court have any effect on the ratification?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

No, this treaty would not limit's women's rights in the U.S. The treaty's principles are longtime mainstays of U.S. law and custom including legal redress against violence and access to education and health care.
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Question Submitted by Ella:

What can I do, as a Indian foreign national, to urge the US government to ratify the Treaty?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

Another good question.

I would contact the President of the United States and Senators who sit on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. I would also contact the U.S. Senate leadership - Senators Frist and Reid.

Contact information can be found online or by going to www.whitehouse.gov and www.senate.gov.
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Question Submitted by mth:

What (or who?) is the main obstacle that the treaty faces in the U.S. Senate?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

Political will is the largest obstacle.

A 2002 report issued by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee concluded that “most fundamentally, the Convention’s promise of providing equal rights to women addresses a question of basic fairness which women have been asking for centuries: why should rights be denied to half the population simply because of their gender? The Convention provides a response: women’s rights are human rights, which should be accorded on a universal basis.”
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Question Submitted by Rebecca:

Are there any American organizations other than Amnesty International that are dealing with this issue?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

The Workiing Group for the Ratification of CEDAW is comprised of more than 200 organizations that support ratification.

Amnesty International has worked extensively on ratification for more than two decades. One representative from Amnesty's Washington DC office serve as co-chair of the Working Group and another serve on its steering committe
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Question Submitted by Thayer:

I am wondering about the treaty's stance on reproductive rights. Literature on the treaty states that CEDAW is "abortion neutral." However, many women's rights activists consider access to safe and legal abortions critical to women's health. I understand the necessity of compromise, but do you think that the treaty lost ground by straying away from this issue?

Sarah C. Albert answers:

CEDAW does not take a position on abortion. Neither proponents nor opponents of abortion regulations can use this treaty to further their cause. Countries where abortion is illegal, such as Ireland and Rwanda, or strictly limited, such as Central American Countries, have all ratified this treaty with no effect to their abortion laws.

Separately, the question of having access to abortion in cases to save the life (and sometimes health) and rape has been discussed with greater intensity over the past five years.

However, I would stress again that the treaty does not take a position on this issue.
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