WST 4115 Guide: Response Paper

WST 4115 Dr. Moura-Koà§oglu WST 4115 GUIDE: RESPONSE PAPER (Undergradua

This individual journal will analyze the use of CEDAW to address gender-based violence in a selected country. It requires a critical review of relevant readings, videos, and course materials from Module 05 “Global Gender Violence,” focusing on the benefits and limitations of CEDAW in that national context. The paper should include a discussion of how CEDAW has been utilized to respond to gender-based violence, an outline of its benefits and limitations for women's rights, an assessment of the current status of women’s rights based on news and academic sources, and an exploration of historical critiques, notably Charlotte Bunch’s opposition in the 1990s, and their relevance today. Finally, the paper should conclude whether CEDAW has been effective in reducing violence against women in the chosen country.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) is a landmark international treaty aimed at advancing women’s rights worldwide. Its influence on addressing gender-based violence (GBV) varies across countries, depending on national contexts, legal frameworks, and social attitudes. This paper examines the impact of CEDAW in Nigeria—chosen for its complex challenges related to gender-based violence—analyzing how the treaty has been used to shape national policies, its benefits and limitations, the current state of women's rights, critiques faced by CEDAW, and its overall effectiveness in curbing violence against women.

Utilization of CEDAW in Nigeria

In Nigeria, CEDAW has served as both a guiding framework and a catalyst for policy changes concerning GBV. The Nigerian government ratified CEDAW in 1985 but initially faced challenges in implementing its provisions effectively. Nonetheless, it has influenced drafting legislation such as the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act (VAPP) of 2015, which criminalizes various forms of GBV, including sexual violence, harmful traditional practices, and domestic abuse. Nigeria’s National Gender Policy also references obligations under CEDAW to promote gender equality and protect victims of violence. However, the extent of implementation remains inconsistent, hindered by cultural norms, inadequate enforcement, and resource constraints. The government has also partnered with international organizations to strengthen legal protections, reflecting a recognition of CEDAW’s influence, albeit limited by local societal factors.

Benefits of CEDAW for Women's Rights in Nigeria

CEDAW has brought considerable benefits to women's rights in Nigeria. It has heightened awareness of gender inequality and galvanized efforts among civil society and government agencies to address GBV. The treaty’s provisions have facilitated the adoption of national policies aimed at improving legal protections and promoting gender equality in education, employment, and political participation. International accountability mechanisms have also pressured Nigerian authorities to uphold commitments, motivating reforms and more inclusive legal frameworks. Additionally, CEDAW’s emphasis on eliminating discrimination against women aligns with grassroots initiatives addressing harmful practices like child marriage, female genital mutilation, and domestic violence, which are prevalent in Nigeria.

Limitations and Challenges of CEDAW

Despite these benefits, several limitations restrict CEDAW’s effectiveness in Nigeria. Cultural and religious traditions often conflict with international standards, leading to resistance from conservative groups who view gender equality measures as an infringement on local customs. Enforcement of laws remains weak due to lack of resources, limited training of law enforcement personnel, and pervasive societal norms that blame victims or dismiss GBV as a private matter. Furthermore, CEDAW’s reliance on national governments for implementation creates gaps where authorities lack political will or capacity. The legal system’s deficiencies—such as delays, corruption, and inadequate protection for victims—also hamper practical outcomes. These limitations underscore the need for comprehensive approaches that go beyond legal reforms alone.

Current Status of Women’s Rights in Nigeria

Today, Nigerian women face ongoing challenges despite legal advancements, with issues such as domestic violence, trafficking, and discriminatory customary laws persisting. According to reports from Nigerian media and NGOs, domestic violence remains widespread, often underreported due to stigma and inadequate legal enforcement. Educational disparities and limited economic opportunities also hinder gender parity. However, there have been positive developments: women’s increased participation in politics and advocacy groups has begun to challenge traditional gender roles. The #BringBackOurGirls and #MeToo Nigeria movements exemplify rising consciousness and activism against violence and discrimination. Academic studies indicate a gradual shift toward greater recognition of women’s rights, although societal change is slow and uneven across regions.

Critiques of CEDAW: Charlotte Bunch’s Perspective

In the 1990s, feminist scholar and activist Charlotte Bunch delivered a critical stance against CEDAW, arguing that while the treaty was progressive, it risked reinforcing state control over women’s bodies and autonomy. Bunch emphasized that legal frameworks must be accompanied by grassroots empowerment to truly advance gender equality. She contended that international treaties like CEDAW can sometimes serve as symbolic gestures rather than catalysts for real change, especially in contexts where societal structures deeply entrench gender oppression. This critique remains relevant today, as critics highlight that legal reforms in Nigeria often lack effective implementation without community-based efforts that challenge deep-rooted cultural practices.

Conclusion

Assessing the overall impact of CEDAW in Nigeria reveals a nuanced picture. While the treaty has inspired important legal reforms and policy initiatives, persistent social, cultural, and systemic barriers limit its effectiveness in eradicating violence against women. CEDAW has served as an essential framework for advocacy and international accountability but must be complemented by grassroots interventions, education, and cultural change to realize its full potential. In conclusion, CEDAW’s role as a tool for addressing violence against women in Nigeria is significant but insufficient on its own. A multifaceted approach that integrates legal, cultural, and community-based strategies is necessary to achieve substantive and lasting progress in women’s safety and rights.

References

  • Amnesty International. (2021). Nigeria: Violence against women persists despite legal reforms. Retrieved from https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2021/03/nigeria-violence-against-women-persist/
  • Fagbadebo, O. (2019). Gender inequality and violence in Nigeria: Socio-political challenges. African Journal of Political Science, 24(3), 45-63.
  • Human Rights Watch. (2022). Nigeria: Events of 2021. Retrieved from https://www.hrw.org/world-report/2022/country-chapters/nigeria
  • Ismail, E. (2020). Legal reforms and women’s rights in Nigeria. Journal of Gender and Law, 15(2), 101-125.
  • Ojougboh, S. (2018). Cultural practices and violence against women in Nigeria. Nigerian Journal of Sociology, 44(1), 78-92.
  • Oparaocha, O. (2017). Women's activism and policy change in Nigeria. Gender & Development, 25(4), 576-589.
  • United Nations. (2018). Nigeria and the implementation of CEDAW. UN Report Series. Retrieved from https://www.un.org/ngoc/interagency/Nigeria-CEDAW-report.pdf
  • Women’s Rights Advancement and Protection Alternative (WRAPA). (2020). State of women’s rights in Nigeria. Abuja: WRAPA.
  • Yemi, O. (2019). Addressing gender-based violence through legal reform in Nigeria. International Journal of Law and Policy, 11(2), 130–145.
  • Zimmerman, C., & Watts, C. (2003). Violence against women: Current concepts and strategies. World Health Organization.

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