On December 18, 1979 the United Nations adopted the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). Often called the international "Bill of Rights" for women, the creation of CEDAW was the first critical step in developing appropriate human rights language for women. This language addresses abuses (for example, physical, sexual, economic, and political) of women and promotes women's full enjoyment of their rights and well being.

As of March 2004, 175 countries have ratified CEDAW.

Once a country ratifies CEDAW, they are obligated to overcome barriers to discrimination against women in the areas of legal rights, education, employment, health care, politics and finance.

Canada ratified CEDAW in 1981, and as a result must regularly report to the United Nations on its progress in fully implementing CEDAW. NGO's, like FAFIA, often submit 'alternative' reports alongside the official country reports, which highlight important information and details about the true state of women's equality in Canada.