This is the first in a series of articles designed to educate women on their rights as set out in the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

We all have rights which are outlined in legislation and policy decisions. In addition to general rights given to citizens in the Jamaican Constitution, special rights for women are reinforced by the CEDAW. This is an international agreement and a commitment that the Government of Jamaica has made with other countries to end all forms of discrimination against women. The Government signed this agreement in September 1981 and ratified it in October 1984.

The convention clearly defines what is discrimination against woman, and outlines a plan of action for the Government to implement. CEDAW is very comprehensive and is seen as the International Bill of Rights for Women and supports the elimination of discrimination in all areas of a woman's life regardless of sex, religion, race, colour, class or socio-economic status.

The convention seeks to remove inequality between men and women, in areas such as services,education, health, family relations, employment, violence against women, stereotypes and harmful cultural practices, child rearing, rural women and political representation.

By endorsing CEDAW, the Government agrees to take all appropriate measures, including legislative and temporary special measures, so that women can enjoy all their human rights and basic freedom.

Next week, we will explore the specifics as laid out in the convention and specifically what our rights are as women.

Prepared by the Bureau of Women's Affairs, 4 Ellesmere Road, Kingston 10