Gender & International Law

The global legal community has increasingly recognized the importance of addressing gender issues within international law. This 1-day workshop is designed for legal professionals, human rights activists, and policymakers to explore how international law responds to issues of gender equality, gender-based violence, and discrimination. Participants will examine international treaties such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), as well as the role of UN bodies and regional human rights systems in promoting gender justice globally.

• To provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of how international law addresses gender-related issues.
• To explore the role of international treaties and UN frameworks in promoting gender equality, women’s rights, and gender justice.
• To equip participants with the knowledge to advocate for gender-sensitive legal reforms and implement gender equality policies in their respective fields.
• To analyze the impact of gender-based violence and discrimination on human rights and discuss legal measures for addressing gender inequalities.

• Understand the core principles of international law as they relate to gender equality and women’s rights.
• Gain practical knowledge of international conventions and treaties that address gender justice and gender-based violence.
• Learn about the mechanisms of UN bodies, such as the UN Women, and regional human rights systems like the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights.
• Discuss the legal tools and strategies to advocate for gender equality and effectively use international law to combat discrimination and gender-based violence.
• Develop an understanding of the challenges and gaps in the implementation of gender justice at the international level.

1. Understanding Gender in International Law
   • Historical development of gender perspectives
   • Key international legal instruments
2. CEDAW (Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women)
   • Core provisions
   • Challenges in implementation
3. Intersectionality
   • Multiple forms of discrimination (race, class, etc.)
   • Policy implications for inclusive legal frameworks
4. Sexual Violence in Conflict
   • International criminal law perspectives
   • Role of UN Women and other agencies

• Legal professionals, including lawyers, judges, and human rights activists working on gender equality and women’s rights.
• NGOs, advocates, and policymakers involved in gender justice and gender-based violence advocacy.
• Students, academics, and researchers studying international law, gender studies, and human rights.
• Government officials, corporate executives, and human resources professionals engaged in gender equality initiatives.
• International organizations and UN representatives focused on gender equality and women’s empowerment.