The Convention on the Eliminations of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) does not explicitly refer to Gender-Based Violence (GBV). In 1992, the CEDAW Committee defined GBV as a form of gender-based discrimination. In 2017, after 25 years, the Committee provided a more detailed explanation of the gender-based nature of violence against women. 

Every Woman Treaty (EWT) has been advocating for the development of an Optional Protocol that builds upon these principles, to enhance international accountability. This session will explore holding nation-states accountable through international law, the impact of CEDAW and whether an optional protocol represents a viable solution.