The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) joins in commemorating the 20th year anniversary of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (OP-CEDAW) on 3 October 2019. The CEDAW and its accompanying OP-CEDAW continues to be instrumental in making sure that current systems of the world are capable of protecting women’s rights and freedoms.

On 6 October 1999, the OP-CEDAW was signed and adopted by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly. The international treaty, which establishes complaint and inquiry mechanisms for the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), was a landmark in the advancement and protection of women’s rights around the world. With 80 signatories and 109 state parties, the Optional Protocol continues to provide safeguards for women worldwide even 20 years later, with successes in the areas of domestic violence, parental leave, forced sterilization, and systemic violence. The Philippines signed the Optional Protocol on 21 March 2000, and ratified it on 12 November 2003.

The last 20 years have seen many achievements, advances, and successes in the realm of women’s rights, but there is still a long way to go. CHR vows to continue its fight to protect the rights of Filipinas both within the country and all over the world, as we urge the government to do their part as primary duty bearers. ###