CEDAW for Change Institute

CEDAW for Change Institute

Next session: September 2023, Oxford, United Kingdom. Applications open February 2023.

CEDAW for Change Institute

Contact us about custom virtual, online or in-person programs for your organization.

CEDAW for Change Training Program

Costa Rica

The CEDAW for Change Institute has been offered at a range of international locations since 2004.  The key objective of this program is to provide  participants (typically women’s organization representatives, human rights defenders, government representatives, researchers, grassroots community leaders, educators, lawyers, and more) with an understanding of human rights principles and obligations in the context of the international human rights system.  We approach the CEDAW Convention as a living document and support human rights defenders in developing a deep understanding of how to apply its principles practically to support women’s equality and empowerment. This unique educational institute brings feminist perspectives and an activist orientation to the interpretation and application of human rights as a social justice tool, building links between transnational, regional, national and local activism and supporting women’s movement building.

  • Upcoming Programs:
    • Oxford CEDAW for Change 2023: We are offering this program in a blended learning model (online + in person session).
    • We also offer this program for particular groups and organizations on demand, contact us for information about customized courses.

CEDAW for Change Institute

This educational institute is designed to cultivate a better understanding of the principles of non-discrimination and substantive equality as enshrined in CEDAW (UN Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women) and each State’s obligation to respect, protect and fulfill women’s human rights.  The core principles and functions of CEDAW as tools for activism and feminist analysis will be explored, ensuring that all participants will be able to ground diverse women’s issues in a women’s human rights framework.

During the training we will learn through activities focused around identity and intersectionality, the complex nature of discrimination, the impact of culture and religion on women’s rights, and activism against discrimination. We will examine case studies that have come before the CEDAW committee and will explore ways in which CEDAW can be used to support local and national level activism through the submission of Shadow Reports by NGOs, through the CEDAW Optional Protocol, and through national and local campaigns and educational initiatives.  Feminist frameworks and interpretations for broadening the application of women’s human rights mechanisms to ensure a progressive agenda informed by women’s movements prepares participants to take leadership for change in their own regions, communities or organizations.