Legal Framework and Institutional Mechanisms

Convention on the Elimination of All forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). Ratification in 1980. Main reference document for equality between men and women. Through its ratification or accession to it the States are legally bound to adopt all necessary measures, including special temporary measures and laws, in order for women to fully enjoy all their human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995). The signatory countries take responsibility for the implementation of the Platform for Action, in which 12 critical areas of concern for the advancement of women are defined.
Constitution of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana and amendments (1980). Every woman is entitled to equal rights and status with men in all spheres of political, economic and social life. All forms of discrimination against women on the basis of gender or sex are illegal.
Women and Gender Equality Commission (2010). The main objective of the Women and Gender Equality Commission is to promote the national recognition and acceptance that women's rights are human rights; that the attainment of gender equality is to be respected and protected.