CEDAW affirms principles of human rights and equality for women, principles that embody American law and values. It calls upon ratifying nations to take “all appropriate measures,” as determined by each country for itself, to end discrimination against women and girls. CEDAW stands for the fundamental proposition that women’s rights are human rights. It is long overdue for the United States to ratify CEDAW, bringing its leadership and vision to this crucial effort to secure equality and justice for women and girls around the world.
